If you’re looking for a bakery-style treat that fills your kitchen with irresistible aroma, Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling are the ultimate indulgence. These soft, fluffy rolls are swirled with a luscious cherry filling and topped with silky cream cheese frosting, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. In this complete step-by-step guide, you’ll learn exactly how to make cherry cinnamon rolls from scratch — even if you’re a beginner baker.
From preparing the vibrant cherry filling to kneading the enriched dough and whipping up the perfect frosting, this recipe walks you through everything you need to know for bakery-quality results at home.
Why You’ll Love These Cherry Cinnamon Rolls
Cherry cinnamon rolls offer a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls. Instead of traditional brown sugar filling, these rolls feature a sweet-tart cherry compote that balances beautifully with the warm, soft dough.
What Makes Them Special?
- ✔️ Sweet and slightly tart homemade cherry filling
- ✔️ Soft, fluffy bread flour dough
- ✔️ Rich cream cheese frosting
- ✔️ Perfect for holidays, brunch, or special occasions
- ✔️ Freezer-friendly and make-ahead friendly
If you love fruit-filled pastries or homemade sweet rolls, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients for Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling
Let’s break everything down into three components: the cherry filling, the dough, and the cream cheese frosting.
The Cherry Filling
- 3 1⁄2 cups frozen cherries (454g)
- 1⁄3 cup granulated sugar (67g)
- 1⁄4 cup cold water (60g)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (20g)
This filling creates a thick, glossy cherry layer that won’t leak out during baking.
The Dough
- 1⁄4 cup warm water (60g)
- 1 tsp active dry yeast (6g)
- 3⁄4 cup whole milk (180g)
- 1⁄3 cup granulated sugar (67g)
- 2 large eggs
- 4 1⁄2 cups bread flour (540g)
- 1⁄2 tsp salt (3g)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature
Bread flour ensures soft, chewy rolls with structure and lift.
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature (57g)
- 3 oz cream cheese, room temperature (85g)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (260g)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–3 tbsp whole milk (20–60g)
The frosting is smooth, creamy, and slightly tangy — the perfect finishing touch.
How to Make Cherry Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch
Step 1: Prepare the Homemade Cherry Filling
Making the filling first allows it to cool completely before spreading.
- In a saucepan, combine frozen cherries and sugar.
- Cook over medium heat until cherries release juices.
- In a small bowl, mix cold water and cornstarch until smooth.
- Pour the slurry into the cherry mixture.
- Cook until thick and glossy (about 3–5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Pro Tip:
If the filling is too warm, it can melt the dough and make rolling messy.
Step 2: Activate the Yeast
- Combine warm water and yeast in a bowl.
- Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be inactive.
Step 3: Make the Soft Cinnamon Roll Dough
- Warm the milk slightly (not hot).
- In a large bowl, mix yeast mixture, milk, sugar, and eggs.
- Add bread flour and salt.
- Mix until a rough dough forms.
- Add room temperature butter gradually.
- Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
The dough should be soft but not sticky.
Step 4: First Rise
- Place dough in a greased bowl.
- Cover and let rise for 1–1.5 hours.
- Dough should double in size.
Step 5: Roll and Fill
- Roll dough into a large rectangle (about 14×18 inches).
- Spread cooled cherry filling evenly.
- Leave a small border around edges.
- Roll tightly from the long side into a log.
- Slice into 12 even rolls.
Step 6: Second Rise
- Arrange rolls in a greased baking dish.
- Cover and let rise 30–45 minutes.
They should look puffy and slightly touching.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 25–30 minutes.
- Tops should be golden brown.
Avoid overbaking to maintain softness.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat butter and cream cheese until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar gradually.
- Mix in vanilla extract.
- Add milk slowly until desired consistency.
Spread frosting over warm (not hot) rolls for a melt-in-your-mouth finish.
Tips for Perfect Cherry Cinnamon Rolls
Use Bread Flour for Best Texture
Bread flour creates structure and fluffiness.
Cool the Filling Completely
Warm filling can cause leaks and uneven rolling.
Don’t Over-Flour
Too much flour makes dense rolls.
Check Yeast Freshness
Inactive yeast leads to flat rolls.
Slice with Dental Floss
Unflavored floss makes clean cuts without squishing.
Variations and Customizations
Add Almond Flavor
Cherries pair beautifully with almond extract.
Add Cinnamon Sugar
For extra warmth, sprinkle cinnamon over the filling.
Make Overnight Cherry Rolls
Refrigerate after shaping and bake in the morning.
Storage and Freezing Tips
Room Temperature
Store in airtight container for 2 days.
Refrigerator
Keeps up to 5 days. Reheat before serving.
Freezer
Freeze unfrosted rolls up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make cherry cinnamon rolls without frozen cherries?
You can use fresh cherries. Simply pit and chop them, then cook as directed. You may need slightly less water since fresh cherries release more juice.
Can I prepare cherry cinnamon rolls the night before baking?
Yes! After shaping, cover and refrigerate overnight. Let them sit at room temperature for 30–45 minutes before baking.
Why is my cherry filling runny?
The filling may not have cooked long enough. Make sure the cornstarch mixture thickens fully before cooling.
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly softer and less chewy. Bread flour is recommended for bakery-style results.
How do I keep cinnamon rolls soft after baking?
Avoid overbaking and store in an airtight container. Reheat gently before serving.
Nutritional Overview (Approximate)
Per roll (with frosting):
- Calories: 380–450
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 6–8g
Values may vary depending on portion size.
Why Homemade Cherry Cinnamon Rolls Are Worth It
Store-bought rolls simply can’t compete with homemade cherry cinnamon rolls. The freshly made dough, real fruit filling, and creamy frosting create layers of flavor and texture that feel indulgent and comforting.
Baking from scratch also allows you to:
- Control sweetness
- Use high-quality ingredients
- Customize flavors
- Impress guests with homemade pastries
The process may take time, but the results are absolutely worth it.
Final Thoughts on Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling
Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling are soft, fluffy, and bursting with sweet-tart cherry flavor in every bite. Whether you’re making them for a holiday brunch, weekend breakfast, or special gathering, these rolls are guaranteed to impress.
Now it’s your turn! Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the process of baking something truly special.
-If you loved this recipe, save it, share it, and try it this weekend. Your kitchen will smell incredible — and your family will thank you!
