Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze combine the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the bright, fruity zing of fresh raspberries and a refreshing lemon glaze. This recipe is a fun and vibrant twist on the classic cinnamon roll, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack. The yeast dough creates soft, fluffy rolls that are filled with a sweet and spicy cinnamon-sugar mixture, then topped with a tart and creamy lemon glaze. The result is a perfect balance of flavors and textures—sweet, tangy, and aromatic.

These raspberry cinnamon rolls are not only visually stunning with their rich color from the raspberries, but they’re also incredibly delicious. The subtle tartness from the raspberries complements the warm cinnamon and the sweet, zesty glaze brings everything together. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just as a treat to enjoy with your morning coffee, these rolls will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. They’re perfect for serving at family gatherings, holiday breakfasts, or when you simply crave a little indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. A Unique Twist on a Classic

Raspberry and cinnamon are a match made in heaven, offering a unique spin on the traditional cinnamon roll.

2. Bright, Fresh Flavors

The lemon glaze adds a refreshing tang that balances out the richness of the cinnamon filling, creating a delightful burst of flavor.

3. Soft, Fluffy Texture

The dough is incredibly soft and tender, yielding perfect rolls every time. The yeast ensures a light, airy texture that’s hard to resist.

4. Easy to Make

Despite their fancy look, these raspberry cinnamon rolls are easy to prepare, making them ideal for both beginner and experienced bakers.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a special brunch or a casual morning, these rolls are versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Instant yeast
Salt
Milk (lukewarm)
Unsalted butter (melted)
Vegetable oil
Large eggs

For the Raspberry Filling:

Granulated sugar
Ground cinnamon
Fresh raspberries (finely chopped or minced)

For the Lemon Glaze:

Powdered sugar
Fresh lemon juice
Lemon zest
Vanilla extract

Variations

Berry Variations: Swap the raspberries with blueberries, blackberries, or strawberries for a different fruity twist.
Nutty Filling: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon-sugar filling for added texture and flavor.
Cream Cheese Glaze: For a richer glaze, substitute cream cheese for part of the powdered sugar and add a touch of vanilla.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and a non-dairy milk, such as almond or oat milk, to make the recipe vegan-friendly.
Spiced Rolls: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the cinnamon filling to give the rolls an extra layer of warmth and spice.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the lukewarm milk, melted butter, vegetable oil, and eggs. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Make the Raspberry Filling

In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, cinnamon, and finely chopped raspberries. Set aside.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 5: Add the Filling

Spread the raspberry mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border along the edges.

Step 6: Roll and Slice

Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, then slice it into individual rolls, about 1 1/2 inches thick.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Place the rolls into a greased baking dish, leaving some space between them. Cover the dish with a cloth and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 8: Bake the Rolls

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 9: Make the Lemon Glaze

While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 10: Glaze the Rolls

Once the rolls are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm rolls before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Make sure the milk is lukewarm (not too hot) to activate the yeast without killing it.
If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overwork the dough.
For a smoother glaze, sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the lemon juice.
Let the rolls rise in a warm, draft-free area for the best results.

How to Serve

These raspberry cinnamon rolls are best served warm right out of the oven. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate breakfast experience. They also make an excellent addition to a brunch spread or holiday table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If they begin to harden, reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds to soften them up.

Freezing

Freeze the unbaked rolls before the final rise. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen solid. When ready to bake, let them rise for 2-3 hours and bake as usual.

Reheating

To reheat cinnamon rolls, wrap them in foil and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen raspberries?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using to prevent excess moisture in the filling.

2. How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough should be doubled in size and should feel light and airy when you press your finger into it. If it springs back slowly, it’s ready.

3. Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls the night before, refrigerate them overnight, and bake them the next morning.

4. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, all-purpose flour works just fine for this recipe.

5. How can I make these cinnamon rolls less sweet?

You can reduce the amount of sugar in both the dough and the filling to adjust the sweetness.

6. Can I use a stand mixer to knead the dough?

Yes, a stand mixer with a dough hook can be used to knead the dough. Just mix the ingredients and knead for about 5 minutes on low speed.

7. How do I make the glaze thicker?

To make the glaze thicker, add more powdered sugar until it reaches the desired consistency.

8. Can I use other fruit for the filling?

Yes, you can use other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a different flavor profile.

9. Can I make these rolls without yeast?

Yeast is essential for creating the soft, fluffy texture, but you could try using a quick bread recipe for a similar result.

10. How do I store the leftover glaze?

Store any leftover glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can drizzle it over other baked goods or fresh fruit.

Conclusion

Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze offer a unique and delightful twist on the traditional cinnamon roll. The combination of fresh raspberries, aromatic cinnamon, and the zesty lemon glaze creates a mouthwatering treat that is sure to impress. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or enjoying them on a lazy weekend morning, these rolls are sure to become a beloved recipe in your baking collection. Try them out and enjoy the soft, sweet, and tangy goodness!