Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weekend treat: **Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls**! There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of warm bread wafting through the house, and when you add sweet blueberries and a hint of cinnamon, it’s a delightful hug for your taste buds.
Every time I bake these rolls, I’m transported back to my grandma’s kitchen. She would whip up batches of cinnamon rolls while I sat on the counter, licking the spoon and sneaking bites of the dough. The blueberry twist came later in life, inspired by my berry-picking adventures in the summer. Now, it’s a family tradition, and every bite holds a sweet memory!
Now, let’s grab those aprons and get ready to indulge in these delicious rolls!
What’s in Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls?
Flour: The base of our rolls! I use all-purpose flour for the perfect balance of fluffiness. If you want a lighter texture, you can mix in some bread flour.
Sugar: A little sweetness goes a long way. I typically use granulated sugar to balance the flavors but brown sugar works equally well for a deeper taste.
Yeast: This little magic ingredient makes the rolls rise to fluffy perfection. I prefer using instant yeast as it’s super easy to work with.
Butter: Oh, butter, how I adore you! It adds richness and flavor. Make sure to let it soften to room temperature for easy mixing.
Milk: A warm splash of milk makes the dough tender and adds moisture. I love using whole milk, but you can substitute with almond or oat milk if you prefer non-dairy options.
Egg: The egg not only helps bind everything together but also adds richness.
Cinnamon: Our aromatic superstar! Ground cinnamon brings warmth and cozy vibes.
Blueberries: Fresh or frozen, blueberries bring a sweet burst of flavor to every bite. If using frozen, don’t thaw them, as they can make the dough soggy.
Vanilla Extract: Just a splash! It lifts the flavor and enhances the sweetness of the blueberries.
Is Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls Good for You?
Sure, these rolls are a delightful treat, but let’s chat about health for a moment.
Blueberries: These tiny powerhouses are loaded with antioxidants and vitamins! They’re great for your skin, heart, and overall health.
Whole Milk: If you’re using whole milk, it provides healthy fats and can help keep you feeling fuller longer.
That said, consuming these delicious rolls in moderation is key! While they’re perfect for special occasions, they are still rich in sugar and carbs. So, save them for those lazy Sunday mornings, and your heart (and taste buds) will thank you!
Ingredients
– 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
– 1/2 cup sugar (granulated or brown)
– 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup warm milk (not hot!)
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp cinnamon (plus more for sprinkling)
– 2 cups blueberries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
This recipe makes about 12 scrumptious rolls, perfect for sharing… or not!
How to Make Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls?
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, and cinnamon.
2. In a small saucepan, warm the milk and melt the butter together until it’s just warm. Remove it from heat and add the egg and vanilla extract.
3. Pour the milk mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir to combine.
4. Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until a dough begins to form.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s soft and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
7. Once risen, roll the dough out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
8. Spread a thin layer of softened butter over the dough, and sprinkle generously with cinnamon and a bit of sugar.
9. Evenly distribute the blueberries over the buttered surface.
10. Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough up into a log and pinch the seam to seal.
11. Slice the log into 12 equal rolls and place them in a greased baking dish.
12. Let the rolls rise again for about 30 minutes.
13. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes or until they’re golden brown.
14. Let them cool for a few minutes and then drizzle with a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk, if desired.
Sweet Tips for Ultimate Rolls
– Feeling adventurous? Add some lemon zest to the dough for a bright flavor!
– For a cream cheese frosting, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla. Yum!
– These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven. But they also freeze well – just wrap them up tight and save them for a rainy day!
I can’t wait for you to try these **Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls**! It’s such a beautiful recipe to gather around with friends and family. Please let me know how they turn out – and maybe share your own blueberry-picking stories too! Happy baking!
