If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing twist on a beloved classic, Cherry Cinnamon Rolls are about to become your new obsession. These sweet, pillowy rolls are swirled with juicy cherry filling, kissed with cinnamon warmth, and drizzled with creamy icing. Whether you serve them for brunch, dessert, or a special weekend treat, you’ll love how easy they are to whip up and just how spectacular they taste. Trust me: there’s no going back once you bite into that melty, cherry-studded center!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts about Cherry Cinnamon Rolls is just how simple and accessible the ingredient list is. Each item brings something special: gooeyness from the cherry pie filling, aroma from cinnamon, richness from butter, plus a little crunch and some optional flavor upgrades. Here’s what you’ll need to make baking magic happen:
- Refrigerated cinnamon roll dough with icing (16 oz): The shortcut hero—fluffy, sweet, and ready for swirling, complete with icing for drizzling.
- Cherry pie filling (1 cup): Bursts of tangy sweetness that transform every bite into a jammy delight.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Adds that irresistible warmth and spice that pairs perfectly with cherries.
- Almond extract (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Enhances the cherry flavor with a subtle, nutty aroma—totally worth it if you have some on hand!
- Unsalted butter, melted (1 tablespoon): Brushed on top for golden color and a boost of richness.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (1/4 cup, optional): Sprinkle over the rolls for a delightful crunch and deeper flavor.
- Powdered sugar (optional): A dainty dusting at the end turns these rolls bakery-worthy.
How to Make Cherry Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and giving a 9-inch round baking dish a light coat of nonstick spray or a swipe of butter. This keeps the rolls from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Trust me, you won’t want to miss a single gooey edge!
Step 2: Fill and Roll
Take each cinnamon roll from the package and carefully unroll it just a bit—enough to create a small space for the cherry goodness. Spoon about a tablespoon of cherry pie filling into the center, then loosely roll each one back up. Arrange them in your prepared dish so they’re cozy but with a little room to puff up as they bake.
Step 3: Add Cherry-Cinnamon Topping
Mix the remaining cherry pie filling with the ground cinnamon and almond extract (if you’re using it) in a small bowl. Spoon this mixture evenly over the tops of your rolls—this makes every bite even more luscious, with extra bits of fruit and spice in every crevice.
Step 4: Butter and Nuts
Brush the tops of the rolls generously with the melted butter. If you like a little crunch, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts over everything now. The nuts toast beautifully in the oven and add such a satisfying texture.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Pop your dish into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the rolls are puffed, golden, and the filling is bubbling around the edges. Your kitchen will smell like pure heaven—be prepared for everyone to hover nearby!
Step 6: Glaze and Finish
While the Cherry Cinnamon Rolls are still warm, drizzle them with the packet of icing that came with the dough. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar for a snowy finish. Let them cool for just a few minutes before serving—trust me, they’re at their best when gooey and fresh from the oven.
How to Serve Cherry Cinnamon Rolls
Garnishes
For a truly irresistible finish, garnish your Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with an extra swirl of icing, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or even a handful of extra toasted nuts. A few fresh cherries on top make them look party-perfect if you’re serving guests.
Side Dishes
These rolls are sweet and fragrant, so they’re wonderful beside a spread of savory dishes like scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or even a tangy yogurt parfait. For a lighter touch, serve with a big bowl of fresh fruit.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Cherry Cinnamon Rolls stacked high on a cake stand for brunch, or bake and present them in individual ramekins for a special dessert. You can also cut them into halves or quarters for a cute addition to a breakfast spread. Don’t forget pretty plates and forks—it’s all about presentation!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Cherry Cinnamon Rolls left (a big if!), cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep them at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to four days. The flavors will continue to meld, and they’ll taste just as dreamy the next day.
Freezing
To freeze, allow the rolls to cool completely, then wrap each roll or the entire dish snugly in plastic wrap and a layer of foil. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy again.
Reheating
For that just-baked magic, warm Cherry Cinnamon Rolls in a 300°F oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or microwave individual rolls for about 20–30 seconds. Add a fresh drizzle of icing or dusting of powdered sugar to liven them up.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough?
Absolutely! If you’d like to go all out, homemade dough makes Cherry Cinnamon Rolls extra impressive. Just substitute your favorite recipe for the canned dough and follow the same filling and baking steps.
Is there a way to make these dairy-free?
Yes, you can use a dairy-free cinnamon roll dough and substitute vegan butter and icing. Check your cherry pie filling for any unexpected dairy as well, though most are naturally vegan-friendly.
Will this recipe work with different fruit fillings?
It sure will! Swap in blueberry, apple, or raspberry pie filling for a whole new flavor profile. The cinnamon and almond notes are especially good with just about any fruity combination.
Do Cherry Cinnamon Rolls need to be refrigerated?
If you’re planning to eat them within two days, they’re fine on the counter, tightly covered. For longer storage, or if your kitchen is especially warm, keep them in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Can I prep these the night before?
Definitely! Assemble the Cherry Cinnamon Rolls up to the pre-baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come closer to room temperature while the oven preheats, then bake as usual in the morning. Fresh, warm rolls and minimal morning fuss!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving comfort, color, and a pop of fruity flavor, make a batch of Cherry Cinnamon Rolls soon! There’s nothing cozier than sharing warm, sticky bakery-fresh rolls with the people you love. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready for a treat that’s sure to be requested again and again.
Print
Cherry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 rolls
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the sweet and fruity flavors of these Cherry Cinnamon Rolls. A delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls, these are filled with cherry pie filling and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for breakfast or as a dessert treat!
Ingredients
Cinnamon Rolls:
- 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated cinnamon roll dough with icing
Cherry Filling:
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
Additional Ingredients:
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking dish: Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9-inch round baking dish.
- Fill and roll dough: Unroll each cinnamon roll slightly and spoon about 1 tablespoon of cherry pie filling into the center. Roll them back up gently and place in the prepared dish.
- Prepare cherry mixture: Combine the remaining cherry filling with ground cinnamon and almond extract. Spoon any extra mixture over the rolls.
- Add toppings and bake: Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with chopped nuts if desired. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
- Finish and serve: Drizzle with included icing while warm. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
Notes
- You can make this recipe from scratch using homemade dough and cherry filling.
- Consider topping with a cream cheese glaze for added richness.
- Best served warm, but can be reheated in the microwave or oven.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
