Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls

Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls are an indulgent treat that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors. The vibrant burst of fresh raspberries complements the rich, creamy filling, all enveloped in a soft, fluffy roll. These sweet rolls are beautifully enhanced with a drizzle of sugary glaze, making them the ultimate showstopper for breakfast or dessert. Rooted in the tradition of sweet yeast rolls, they offer a delightful nod to nostalgic baking with a modern twist.

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What You’ll Need for Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls

Complete Ingredients List

1. Dough:

   • 1 cup milk
   • 4 tablespoons butter, cubed
   • 3 1/4 – 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
   • 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant or rapid rise yeast
   • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
   • 1/2 teaspoon salt
   • 1 egg

2. Filling:

   • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
   • 5 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided
   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
   • 12 ounces fresh raspberries
   • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
   • 2 teaspoons lemon zest

3. Glaze:

   • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
   • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
   • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
   • 1-2 tablespoons milk

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk (such as almond or oat) and dairy-free cream cheese to make this recipe suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum.
• Egg-Free: Replace the egg with a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes until it gels).
• Flavor Variations: You can swap raspberries for other berries such as blueberries, strawberries, or blackberries, or even mix and match. Adding a dash of almond extract in the cream cheese filling can also offer a unique twist.

How to Make Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by greasing a 9×13 inch baking pan and setting it aside. In a small saucepan, over medium-low heat, combine 1 cup of milk and 4 tablespoons of cubed butter. Stir occasionally until the butter melts and the milk is warm but not boiling. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 package of instant yeast, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix these dry ingredients together briefly to combine.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the egg and the warm milk mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined. Next, switch from the paddle attachment to the dough hook, gradually adding in remaining flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Knead the dough using the hook attachment for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rest for 10 minutes to relax the gluten.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

While the dough is resting, prepare the cream cheese filling. In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 6: Prepare the Raspberry Mixture

In a separate small bowl, combine the fresh raspberries, the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 2 teaspoons of lemon zest. Gently fold them together, taking care not to crush the raspberries too much.

Step 7: Roll Out the Dough

After the resting period, roll the dough into a rectangle measuring approximately 12×14 inches. Evenly spread the cream cheese filling over the surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Then, sprinkle the raspberry mixture evenly atop the cream cheese.

Step 8: Form the Rolls

Starting from the long end, carefully roll the dough into a log and pinch the edges closed to seal. Cut the log into 12 equally sized slices.

Step 9: Let the Rolls Rise

Arrange the rolls in the prepared baking pan, ensuring they’re snug but not overcrowded. Cover with a kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm place for 40 to 60 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.

Step 10: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until golden brown.

Step 11: Prepare the Glaze

While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by mixing 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons melted butter, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1-2 tablespoons of milk until you achieve a drizzling consistency.

Step 12: Glaze the Rolls

Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly for about 2 minutes. Finally, drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls while they are still in the pan, allowing it to seep into the crevices.

Serving Suggestions for Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls

How to Serve Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls

These sweet rolls are best served warm, as this brings out the soft texture and enhances the flavors of the filling. You can serve them in the baking dish, or plate them individually for a more elegant presentation. For ideal serving, allow them to cool slightly before serving so the glaze can set a bit.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

These sweet rolls pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them an ideal breakfast or brunch treat. You may also consider serving them alongside fresh whipped cream or a dollop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert option. Adding a sprinkle of lemon zest or chopped mint leaves on top can add a pop of color and freshness to the presentation.

Storing & Preserving Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls

Best Storage Methods

To store leftover Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. These rolls can be kept at room temperature for 1-2 days. For longer storage, you may refrigerate them for up to a week. Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to two months; just ensure they’re wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

To reheat the rolls, simply microwave them for 15-20 seconds until warm. If they have been frozen, allow them to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain some of that fresh-baked texture.

Tips for Perfect Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

1. Over-proofing – Ensure the rolls do not rise too long; otherwise, the texture can become dense.
2. Temperature of Ingredients – Make sure the milk is warm but not hot when added to the yeast; if it’s too hot, it will kill the yeast.
3. Flour Measurement – Use a digital scale for precise measurements or fluff the flour before spooning it into a measuring cup to avoid dense rolls.

Helpful Tricks for Success

• Test the Yeast: Before adding to the dough, dissolve yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar to ensure it is active.
• Warm Environment: If your kitchen is cool, you can create a warm environment for rising by placing the covered dough in an oven preheated to 200°F (93°C) for a few minutes, then turning it off.
• Add Toppings: For added texture, consider sprinkling chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, over the raspberry filling before rolling up the dough.

Fun Variations of Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

Experiment with different flavors by using different fruits in the filling, such as blueberries or strawberries. You could also infuse the glaze with citrus zest or almond extract to match various fruit themes. For a spiced twist, consider adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese mixture.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

• Vegan: Use plant-based milk, dairy-free cream cheese, and a flax egg as mentioned earlier, ensuring all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.
• Keto-Friendly: Replace the flour with almond flour and use a low-carb sweetener for the filling and glaze.

FAQs

What If My Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls Doesn’t Turn Out Right?

If your sweet rolls turn out dry, it could be due to too much flour or not enough moisture in the dough. Ensure to measure your flour accurately and avoid over kneading. If they are too dense, it may be a result of not letting the dough rise sufficiently or old yeast. Always check the freshness of your yeast before use.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Yes! You can make the dough and the filling a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator; roll them together for baking the next morning to enjoy freshly baked rolls with minimal effort.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

If you don’t have fresh raspberries, frozen raspberries work well too; just thaw and drain them before using. For cream cheese, consider using mascarpone for a different creaminess. If you can’t find cornstarch, flour can be a substitute in small amounts.

With these tips and insights, you can create and enjoy delicious Raspberry Cream Cheese Sweet Rolls at home. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to enchant anyone who takes a bite! Enjoy your baking adventure!

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