Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of freshly baked Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe filling your kitchen. These rolls are the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and warmly spiced sensations in every bite. Soft, fluffy dough gives way to a luscious raspberry jam and fresh raspberry filling, while the cinnamon and brown sugar add that comforting depth. The crowning glory is a bright, zesty lemon glaze that adds a refreshing twist to this traditional treat. This Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe is sure to become your new go-to for brunch or a special dessert, guaranteed to delight your family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in delivering the perfect texture and flavor. From the warm milk that activates the yeast to the fresh raspberries that bring vibrant color and juiciness, these simple essentials combine to create a truly memorable raspberry cinnamon roll experience.
- Warm milk (1 cup, 110°F): Activates yeast for that light, airy dough texture.
- Active dry yeast (2¼ teaspoons): Ensures your dough rises beautifully.
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Adds just enough sweetness to balance flavors.
- Large egg plus egg yolk: Enhances richness and tenderness in the dough.
- Unsalted butter (¼ cup, melted): Brings a silky softness and buttery taste.
- All-purpose flour (3 cups): The foundation for your perfect roll dough.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- Raspberry jam (¾ cup): Infuses sweet, fruity goodness in every bite.
- Fresh raspberries (1 cup): Adds natural tartness and beautiful color.
- Brown sugar (⅓ cup): Adds warmth and a subtle molasses note to the filling.
- Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons): Brings classic spice and aroma.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Creates the base of the smooth lemon glaze.
- Fresh lemon juice (2–3 tablespoons): Adds refreshing tang to the glaze.
- Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Enhances the glaze’s brightness with aromatic oils.
How to Make Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining the warm milk with active dry yeast in a large bowl and give it 5 to 10 minutes to get foamy—this is the sign that your yeast is awake and ready to work its magic. Then, mix in sugar, the whole egg plus yolk, and melted butter, ensuring every ingredient is well combined. Slowly stir in the flour and salt, then knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This kneading step is crucial for developing gluten, which gives your rolls that perfect pillowy texture.
Step 2: First Rise
Lightly grease a bowl and place your dough inside, covering it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1½ hours, or until it doubles in size. Watching it puff up is such a satisfying moment—this means your dough is rising beautifully and will bake into soft, fluffy rolls.
Step 3: Roll and Fill
Once risen, roll your dough out on a lightly floured surface into a 14 by 9-inch rectangle. The size makes for just the right thickness, so your rolls bake evenly and retain their moist crumb. Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the surface, then sprinkle fresh raspberries atop the jam, followed by a mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon. This layer infusion of flavors guarantees every swirl of dough holds a burst of berry and spice goodness.
Step 4: Roll and Slice
Carefully roll the dough lengthwise into a tight log, making sure not to squeeze out the filling. Using a sharp knife, cut this log into 9 to 12 evenly sized rolls, depending on your preferred portion size. Placing these cut rolls into a greased baking dish with a bit of space between them allows gentle rising without sticking together.
Step 5: Second Rise and Bake
Cover the rolls and let them rise again for 30 to 45 minutes, allowing those little dough spirals to puff ever so slightly before baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F while the rolls finish their second rise. Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes, watching as they turn a beautiful, golden brown. That lovely color means the sugars caramelize and the dough is perfectly baked through.
Step 6: Lemon Glaze
While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar with the fresh lemon juice and zest until smooth and glossy. The glaze should be just poured-right consistency; adjust the lemon juice if you want it a bit thinner or thicker. This glaze adds a zesty brightness that perfectly complements the warm, sweet rolls fresh from the oven.
Step 7: Glaze and Serve
Drizzle the lemon glaze generously over the warm rolls right after they come out of the oven. The heat will slightly melt the glaze, seeping into every crevice and making these raspberry cinnamon rolls utterly irresistible.
How to Serve Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
For an elegant touch, fresh raspberries and a sprinkle of lemon zest on top brighten up the presentation while hinting at the flavors inside. A light dusting of powdered sugar gives that bakery-fresh look that’s hard to resist.
Side Dishes
Pair these raspberry cinnamon rolls with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a refreshing citrus-infused tea to balance the sweetness. A side bowl of vanilla yogurt or whipped cream can also complement the rolls wonderfully, adding creaminess to each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch gathering, serve these rolls on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fresh berries and lemon slices for a vibrant, inviting spread. You can also slice them in half and serve with a dollop of mascarpone or cream cheese for a decadent twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They stay soft and flavorful, especially when gently reheated before serving.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the unglazed rolls after the second rise by placing them on a baking sheet and freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer bag. They can be stored frozen for up to three months and baked fresh as needed.
Reheating
Warm your rolls in a microwave for about 20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for 10 minutes. Add the lemon glaze fresh after reheating to get that fresh, tangy finish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh ones?
Absolutely! You can use frozen raspberries straight from the freezer without thawing them first. This helps keep the filling more intact and prevents excess moisture from making the dough soggy.
What if I don’t have lemon zest for the glaze?
If you don’t have lemon zest, you can still make the glaze using just the lemon juice. The glaze will have the tang but slightly less aromatic brightness. Alternatively, try substituting with a little orange zest for a different citrus twist.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, let it rise once, then refrigerate it overnight. The next day, roll, fill, and proceed with the second rise and baking. This is a great option for prepping in advance.
How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
The rolls should be golden brown on top and cooked through. You can test by inserting a toothpick in the center of a roll; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, they’re ready to enjoy.
Can I make a dairy-free version of this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk, and swap butter for a vegan butter substitute. Keep the other ingredients the same for a delicious dairy-free twist on this Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe is pure comfort and joy wrapped into one delightful treat. The combination of fruity raspberry, warm cinnamon, and bright lemon glaze will make you fall in love all over again with homemade pastries. It’s a special recipe that’s perfect for sharing and making memories, so don’t hesitate to give it a whirl—you won’t regret it!
Print
Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 9–12 rolls
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze, a perfect blend of sweet raspberries, warm cinnamon, and a tangy lemon glaze. Soft, fluffy dough envelops a luscious raspberry jam and cinnamon filling, making them an irresistible breakfast or dessert treat.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg plus 1 egg yolk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
Filling
- ¾ cup raspberry jam
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Lemon Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk and yeast and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy to activate the yeast and ensure proper rising of the dough.
- Mix Dough Ingredients: Add sugar, egg, egg yolk, and melted butter to the yeast mixture, mixing until combined. Stir in flour and salt.
- Knead Dough: Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic to develop gluten for a soft texture.
- First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1½ hours until doubled in size, allowing the dough to ferment and expand.
- Shape Dough: Once risen, roll the dough into a 14×9-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
- Add Filling: Spread raspberry jam evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with fresh raspberries, brown sugar, and cinnamon for a flavorful filling.
- Form Rolls: Carefully roll the dough into a log and cut into 9–12 even rolls to ensure consistent baking.
- Second Rise: Place rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30–45 minutes to let them puff up again.
- Baking: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake rolls for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare Glaze: While rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest to make a tangy lemon glaze.
- Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the lemon glaze over warm rolls before serving to add a bright, sweet finish.
Notes
- You can use frozen raspberries instead of fresh—just don’t thaw them first to avoid excess moisture.
- For a richer dough, substitute milk with half-and-half, enhancing flavor and softness.
- Adjust lemon juice in glaze to your preferred consistency to balance sweetness and tartness.
