Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze are the perfect combination of soft, fluffy dough, sweet cinnamon sugar, juicy raspberries, and a tangy lemon finish. This recipe transforms a classic cinnamon roll into a fresh, fruity, and irresistibly flavorful treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, these rolls will bring bakery-style magic to your kitchen.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find step-by-step instructions, expert tips, substitutions, storage advice, FAQs, and variations to make your raspberry cinnamon rolls flawless every time.
Why You’ll Love These Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls
Before diving into the recipe, here’s why these rolls are so special:
- Fluffy and soft: Perfectly risen dough that melts in your mouth.
- Fruity burst: Fresh or frozen raspberries create a tangy-sweet contrast with cinnamon sugar.
- Zesty glaze: The lemon glaze adds a refreshing citrus kick that balances the sweetness.
- Beginner-friendly: Step-by-step instructions make it easy for bakers of all levels.
- Freezable & make-ahead: Prepare ahead for a quick, homemade treat any time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make these rolls, organized for convenience.
For the Dough
- 3/4 cup (180ml) warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 3 1/2 cups (440g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Filling
- 1/3 cup (75g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup (150g) fresh or frozen raspberries
For the Lemon Glaze
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowls
- Stand mixer with dough hook (optional, but helpful)
- Rolling pin
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Whisk
- Pastry brush
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let sit 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- Add melted butter, egg, remaining sugar, and salt. Mix gently.
- Gradually add flour and knead until a soft dough forms. Knead by hand for 6–8 minutes or with a stand mixer until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Pro Tip: Ensure the milk is warm but not hot; too high a temperature can kill the yeast.
2. Make the Cinnamon-Raspberry Filling
- In a small bowl, combine softened butter, sugar, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Scatter fresh or frozen raspberries evenly on top when assembling the rolls.
Pro Tip: If using frozen raspberries, do not thaw to prevent excess moisture from making the rolls soggy.
3. Assemble the Rolls
- Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 16×12-inch rectangle.
- Spread the cinnamon-sugar butter mixture evenly over the dough.
- Scatter raspberries over the filling.
- Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log and pinch the seam to seal.
- Slice the log into 12 equal pieces using dental floss or a sharp serrated knife.
- Place rolls in a parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Pro Tip: Use dental floss to slice cleanly without squishing the rolls.
4. Bake the Rolls
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown.
- Let them cool slightly while preparing the glaze.
5. Prepare the Lemon Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze generously over warm rolls.
Pro Tip: For extra citrus flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling as well.
Expert Tips for Perfect Rolls
- Flour measurement: Spoon flour into your cup and level with a knife for accuracy. Too much flour can make rolls dense.
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Rising environment: A slightly warm oven or sunny windowsill works well for dough to rise evenly.
- Even bake: Rotate the pan halfway through baking for golden, even rolls.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble and let them rise in the refrigerator overnight. Bring to room temperature before baking.
Q: Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely! Blueberries, blackberries, or strawberries are excellent substitutes.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Q: Can I freeze the rolls?
Yes. Wrap baked rolls tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes or microwave individual rolls for 20–30 seconds.
Variations & Substitutions
- Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and dairy-free butter for a lactose-free version.
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or almonds for extra crunch.
- Extra Sweet: Sprinkle white chocolate chips into the filling.
- Flavor Twist: Mix a teaspoon of vanilla extract or cardamom into the dough for a subtle aromatic flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend and slightly reduce liquid.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert twist.
- Top with fresh berries and mint for brunch presentation.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Makes 12)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 20g
Pro Tip: You can slightly reduce sugar in the filling if you prefer a less sweet treat.
Storage & Reheating
- To Freeze: Wrap rolls tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze up to 3 months.
- To Reheat: Microwave individual rolls 20–30 seconds or warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the rolls and refrigerate overnight; bake in the morning for fresh, warm rolls.
Why This Recipe Works
- Perfect texture: The dough is soft yet structured enough to hold the filling.
- Flavor balance: Sweet cinnamon and sugar complement tart raspberries, while the lemon glaze adds brightness.
- Customizable: You can adapt the recipe for gluten-free, dairy-free, or extra indulgent variations.
Final Thoughts
Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze are more than just a sweet treat—they’re a comforting, bakery-quality delight you can make at home. With minimal ingredients, simple steps, and tips for perfection, this recipe is ideal for weekend brunches, holiday breakfasts, or any special occasion.
Whether you enjoy them warm, glazed, or slightly cooled, these rolls are guaranteed to impress family, friends, and guests. Don’t forget to make extra—they freeze beautifully and taste amazing even days later!
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