If you are searching for a delightful treat that combines fruity freshness with soft, sweet dough and a luscious topping, you will adore this Blackberry Sweet Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe. These rolls bring together the tartness of blackberries with a smooth cream cheese glaze that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or a special snack, these rolls are guaranteed to brighten your day and impress your guests with their beautiful color and rich flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is a wonderful example of how simple, staple ingredients come together to create something truly special. Each component plays a vital role in the texture and taste, from the soft, pillowy dough to the fresh blackberry filling and the creamy glaze that crowns it all.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for the dough, providing structure and chewiness.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps activate the yeast.
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast: The magic that makes the dough rise and become fluffy.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dough.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Provides tenderness and a subtle buttery flavor.
- 1/4 cup water: Helps activate the yeast and contributes to dough hydration.
- 1 large egg: Binds the dough and adds richness.
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blackberries: The star fruit filling, bursting with juicy flavor.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the blackberry filling perfectly.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch: Thickens the blackberry filling so it holds together nicely.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the filling with fresh acidity.
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the fruit mixture.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy base for the luscious glaze.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Adds decadence and smoothness to the glaze.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze perfectly.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Gives the glaze a lovely aromatic note.
- 1-2 tbsp milk (optional): Helps adjust the glaze consistency to your liking.
How to Make Blackberry Sweet Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by mixing 2 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl. Warm the milk, melted butter, and water to about 110°F to activate the yeast, then add this liquid along with the egg to your flour mixture. Stir to combine, then gradually add the remaining flour while kneading until you have a smooth, elastic dough. Cover and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size—about one hour. This is where the dough develops that soft, airy texture you’ll love.
Step 2: Make the Blackberry Filling
While the dough is rising, make your filling by cooking blackberries with sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cornstarch over medium heat. Stir frequently until the fruit breaks down and the mixture thickens—this usually takes 5 to 7 minutes. Let it cool slightly so it won’t melt the dough later but still stays spreadable and bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has risen beautifully, gently punch it down to release any air. Turn it onto a floured surface and roll it out into a 12 by 18-inch rectangle. This even layer gives you the perfect canvas to spread your blackberry filling.
Step 4: Spread Filling and Roll Up
Spread the blackberry mixture evenly across the dough. From one of the long sides, carefully roll the dough up tightly into a log. This rolling method ensures every bite will have a good swirl of blackberry filling. Once rolled, cut the log into 12 equal pieces—each becoming a perfectly portioned sweet roll.
Step 5: Second Rise and Bake
Arrange the sliced rolls in a greased 9×13-inch pan with a little space between them. Cover and let them rise once more for about 30 minutes to get that fluffy lift. While they rise, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes, until they turn a gorgeous golden brown, signaling the perfect balance of softness and slight caramelization.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze
While the rolls are baking or cooling, whip together softened cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Stir in vanilla extract and add a drizzle of milk if necessary to reach your desired glaze consistency—smooth enough to spread but thick enough to hold onto the rolls.
Step 7: Glaze the Rolls
Once the rolls have cooled just enough to handle without crumbling, generously spread the cream cheese glaze over the top. This glaze adds a luscious, tangy sweetness that complements the blackberries beautifully.
Step 8: Enjoy Your Blackberry Sweet Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe!
Your efforts have paid off with a batch of fruit-filled sweet rolls that are soft, fruity, and utterly irresistible. These rolls shine as a comforting breakfast or a delightful afternoon treat.
How to Serve Blackberry Sweet Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, garnish your rolls with a sprinkle of fresh blackberries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even finely chopped toasted pecans for a little crunch. Fresh mint leaves add a lovely touch of green and a hint of herbal brightness.
Side Dishes
These rolls pair wonderfully with a simple cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or brunch. For a heartier spread, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a light fruit salad to balance the sweet richness of the rolls.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these rolls warm in a rustic wooden board for a charming brunch table center. You can also place each roll in a colorful cupcake liner for a grab-and-go treat or serve them family-style in your favorite baking dish for cozy gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps preserve their softness and avoids drying out. If you prefer, refrigerate them for up to a week, just be sure to bring them back to room temperature or warm them slightly before eating.
Freezing
These blackberry sweet rolls freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place inside a freezer bag or container. Freeze for up to three months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm before serving for that freshly baked feel.
Reheating
For the best texture and flavor, reheat rolls in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave a single roll for 20-30 seconds if you’re short on time, though the oven method keeps the outer edges soft and tender.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blackberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen blackberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before cooking to avoid a watery filling.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
You can try substituting dairy milk with a plant-based alternative and use vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese. Additionally, replace the egg with a flax or chia seed egg. This might slightly change the texture but should still yield delicious rolls.
How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
The dough should roughly double in size and look puffy and airy. A quick finger poke test can help: if the indentation remains and doesn’t immediately spring back, it’s ready for the next step.
Can I make the dough the night before?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before rolling out and filling.
What if I don’t have cornstarch for the filling?
You can substitute with an equal amount of arrowroot powder or tapioca starch, which also help thicken fruit fillings nicely.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about homemade rolls filled with sweet, tangy blackberries and smothered in a rich cream cheese glaze. This Blackberry Sweet Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe is one you’ll return to again and again, whether for lazy weekend mornings or special occasions. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give these a try and experience the joy of fresh-baked, fruity goodness that fills your kitchen with love and aroma.
Print
Blackberry Sweet Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 12 rolls (12 servings)
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these homemade Blackberry Sweet Rolls featuring a tender, fluffy dough filled with a luscious blackberry jam infused with cinnamon and lemon. Topped with a creamy vanilla cream cheese glaze, these rolls bring a perfect balance of fruity sweetness and rich flavor, ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 large egg
Blackberry Filling
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blackberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Cream Cheese Glaze
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp milk (optional, for thinning)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix 2 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Warm the milk, melted butter, and water to about 110°F, then add to the flour mixture along with the egg. Stir until combined, then gradually add the remaining flour, kneading until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Make the Blackberry Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine blackberries, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until thickened and the berries have broken down, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Shape the Rolls: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 12 by 18-inch rectangle.
- Add Filling and Roll: Spread the blackberry filling evenly over the dough. Roll the dough tightly from the long side and slice into 12 equal pieces.
- Proof and Bake: Place rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), then bake rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze: Beat softened cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract and milk as needed to reach a spreadable consistency.
- Glaze the Rolls: After the rolls cool slightly, spread the cream cheese glaze generously over the top.
- Serve and Enjoy: These blackberry sweet rolls make a delicious fruity treat perfect for any occasion, best served warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh blackberries; frozen blackberries should be thawed and drained before cooking.
- If dough is sticky, add flour a tablespoon at a time during kneading.
- Ensure liquids are warm but not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- The cream cheese glaze can be made ahead and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before spreading.
- Store baked rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
