The Best Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls: Soft, Fluffy & Irresistible

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Blueberry cinnamon rolls WP CARD

The Best Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls

  • Author: Benny
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including rising time)
  • Yield: 12 rolls 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Cuisine: American

Description

These Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls are soft, fluffy, and bursting with juicy blueberries! They feature a sweet cinnamon-sugar filling with a hint of vanilla and a luscious blueberry glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat, these rolls are a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls that will have everyone coming back for more!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

  • 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg

For the Filling:

  • ⅔ cup brown sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen blueberries

For the Blueberry Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup fresh blueberries
  • 1 tablespoon milk (adjust for consistency)
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  • Add melted butter, vanilla extract, salt, and egg. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
  • Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  • Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
  • Roll out the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture and blueberries.
  • Roll the dough tightly from the longer side and cut into 12 even rolls.
  • Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
  • Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 22-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  • Make the Glaze: Blend blueberries until smooth. In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, blueberry puree, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
  • Drizzle the blueberry glaze over the warm rolls and serve!

Notes

  • For extra gooey rolls, add a tablespoon of heavy cream over the rolls before baking.
  • Swap fresh blueberries for frozen ones (do not thaw to prevent excess moisture).
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 roll
  • Calories: 280
  • Fat: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Protein: 5g

Introduction

Blueberry cinnamon rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, packed with juicy blueberries and warm cinnamon flavor. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and topped with a luscious glaze, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making homemade blueberry cinnamon rolls.

From the best ingredients to expert tips for a perfect rise. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this step-by-step recipe will help you achieve bakery-quality rolls at home.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the best blueberry cinnamon rolls from scratch. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right ingredients to perfecting the baking process for fluffy, bakery-style rolls at home. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, follow these simple steps to create a batch of irresistible homemade blueberry cinnamon rolls!

Ingredients for Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls

The key to making fluffy blueberry cinnamon rolls is using high-quality ingredients. Below, we break down what you’ll need and why each ingredient is important.

Essential Ingredients for the Dough

A soft and fluffy dough is the foundation of any great cinnamon roll. Here’s what you’ll need:

IngredientPurpose in Dough
All-purpose flour (3 ½ cups)Provides structure and elasticity.
Granulated sugar (¼ cup)Feeds the yeast and adds slight sweetness.
Active dry yeast (2 ¼ tsp or 1 packet)Helps the dough rise and creates airiness.
Salt (½ tsp)Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
Warm milk (¾ cup, ~110°F)Activates the yeast and keeps the dough soft.
Unsalted butter (¼ cup, melted)Adds richness and moisture.
Egg (1 large)Binds ingredients together and adds softness.

💡 Tip: Always use warm milk (not hot) to activate the yeast without killing it.

Ingredients for the Blueberry Filling

The star of these rolls is the juicy blueberry filling, which adds natural sweetness and a pop of color.

IngredientPurpose in Filling
Fresh or frozen blueberries (1 ½ cups)Adds sweetness and tartness.
Granulated sugar (⅓ cup)Sweetens and enhances the blueberry flavor.
Cornstarch (1 tbsp)Thickens the filling and prevents sogginess.
Ground cinnamon (1 tsp)Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp)Enhances overall sweetness and aroma.

💡 Tip: If using frozen blueberries, thaw and drain excess liquid to prevent a soggy filling.

Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

A classic cinnamon sugar layer inside the rolls creates an extra boost of flavor.

IngredientPurpose
Brown sugar (½ cup)Adds deep caramel-like sweetness.
Ground cinnamon (1 tbsp)Provides warmth and spice.
Softened butter (3 tbsp)Helps the mixture stick to the dough.

💡 Tip: Use dark brown sugar for a richer molasses flavor.

Ingredients for the Glaze

The finishing touch is a simple but delicious glaze that adds sweetness and enhances the blueberry flavors.

IngredientPurpose in Glaze
Powdered sugar (1 cup)Creates a smooth, sweet glaze.
Milk or heavy cream (2 tbsp)Adjusts the thickness of the glaze.
Vanilla extract (½ tsp)Adds depth and a warm aroma.

💡 Tip: For a thicker frosting, use cream cheese instead of milk.

How to Make Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s walk through the step-by-step process of making homemade blueberry cinnamon rolls from scratch.

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

A soft and fluffy dough is essential for tender, melt-in-your-mouth cinnamon rolls.

  1. Activate the yeast:

    • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together warm milk (110°F), sugar, and yeast.
    • Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy (this means the yeast is active).
  2. Mix the dough:

    • Add melted butter and egg to the yeast mixture, stirring well.
    • Gradually mix in the flour and salt, stirring until a rough dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough:

    • Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
    • If using a stand mixer, knead with a dough hook on medium speed for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Let the dough rise:

    • Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a kitchen towel.
    • Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

💡 Tip: If your kitchen is cold, place the bowl in a slightly warmed oven (turned off) to speed up the rising process.

Rolling out dough with blueberry filling for cinnamon rolls

Step 2 : Making the Blueberry Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare the blueberry cinnamon filling.

  1. Cook the blueberries:

    • In a saucepan over medium heat, combine blueberries, sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch.
    • Stir frequently, cooking for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens into a jam-like consistency.
  2. Let it cool:

    • Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
    • Allow the filling to cool before spreading it on the dough.

💡 Tip: Cornstarch helps prevent the blueberry filling from being too runny and making the rolls soggy.

Step 3: Rolling and Filling the Dough

Now it’s time to assemble the rolls!

  1. Roll out the dough:

    • On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 16×10-inch rectangle.
    • Make sure the thickness is even for consistent baking.
  2. Spread the fillings:

    • Brush the dough with softened butter.
    • Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly across the surface.
    • Spread the cooled blueberry filling evenly on top.

💡 Tip: Avoid adding too much filling, as it may leak out when rolling.

Step 4: Rolling and Cutting the Rolls

  1. Roll it up:

    • Carefully roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log.
    • Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut into 12 equal pieces.
  2. Arrange in a baking dish:

    • Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between them for expansion.
  3. Final rise:

    • Cover with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for 30 more minutes before baking.

💡 Tip: A second rise ensures extra fluffy cinnamon rolls.

Now that your blueberry cinnamon rolls are assembled and have completed their second rise, it’s time to bake them to golden perfection and finish them off with a delicious glaze. In this section, we’ll cover the optimal baking time, tips for achieving a soft texture, and how to make a smooth and flavorful glaze.

Baking the Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls

1. Preheat the Oven

Before placing your rolls in the oven, ensure it’s preheated to 350°F (175°C). A properly preheated oven helps the rolls bake evenly and rise correctly.

💡 Tip: If your oven runs hot, consider reducing the temperature slightly to 325°F (163°C) to prevent over-browning before the centers are fully cooked.

2. Bake to Perfection

  • Once the oven is ready, place the baking dish on the middle rack.
  • Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on top.

3. Check for Doneness

To ensure the rolls are fully baked:
Visual Cue: The tops should be golden brown, and the edges should look set.
Touch Test: Gently press the center of a roll—if it bounces back instead of staying indented, it’s done.
Temperature Check: The internal temperature should be around 190°F (88°C) when measured with a kitchen thermometer.

💡 Tip: If the rolls are browning too quickly but are still undercooked in the center, cover them loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking.

 Cooling the Rolls

Once baked, remove the cinnamon rolls from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes in the pan. This allows them to set before adding the glaze, preventing it from melting too much.

💡 Tip: If you want warm, gooey cinnamon rolls, you can drizzle the glaze while they’re still slightly warm. For a thicker, set glaze, wait until they are completely cooled.

Blueberry cinnamon rolls baking in the oven

Making the Vanilla Glaze

A good cinnamon roll is never complete without a sweet and creamy glaze!

Ingredients for the Glaze

IngredientPurpose
1 cup powdered sugarCreates a smooth, sweet glaze.
2 tablespoons milk or heavy creamAdjusts the thickness and adds richness.
½ teaspoon vanilla extractEnhances flavor with warm, sweet notes.

1. Mix the Ingredients

  • In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk (or cream), and vanilla extract.
  • Stir until the glaze is smooth and pourable.

💡 Tip: If the glaze is too thick, add ½ teaspoon of milk at a time until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.

💡 Tip: If you love fruity flavors, pair your blueberry cinnamon rolls with homemade Strawberry Ice Cream for a refreshing summer treat!

2. Drizzle Over the Rolls

  • Once the rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top using a spoon or a piping bag.
  • Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.

💡 Optional: For an extra touch, sprinkle the tops with lemon zest, extra cinnamon, or chopped nuts.

Alternative Frosting Options

If you want to switch things up, try one of these delicious frosting variations:

1. Cream Cheese Frosting (Rich & Tangy)

A thicker, more indulgent option that pairs beautifully with the blueberries.

Ingredients:

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon milk (or as needed for consistency)

Instructions:

  • Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
  • Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
  • Add milk as needed to adjust consistency.

💡 Tip: This frosting spreads best when the rolls are completely cooled.

2. Lemon Glaze (Bright & Refreshing)

A fresh citrus glaze that enhances the blueberry flavor.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Instructions:

  • Whisk all ingredients together until smooth.
  • Drizzle over the rolls while they are still warm.

💡 Tip: If you love the combination of blueberries and lemon, you can add lemon zest to the blueberry filling as well!

Blueberry cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting

Step 4: Serving the Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls

Your blueberry cinnamon rolls are now ready to be enjoyed! Here are a few ways to serve them:

1. Best Served Fresh

  • These rolls taste best when served warm and fresh out of the oven.
  • Pair them with a cup of coffee, tea, or cold milk for the ultimate indulgence.

2. Storing Leftovers

Storage MethodHow Long?Instructions
Room TemperatureUp to 2 daysStore in an airtight container. Warm before serving.
RefrigeratorUp to 5 daysKeep in an airtight container. Reheat in the microwave.
Freezer (Unbaked Rolls)Up to 3 monthsFreeze after assembling. Thaw overnight before baking.
Freezer (Baked Rolls)Up to 3 monthsFreeze individually. Reheat at 325°F (163°C) for 10 minutes.

💡 Tip: To keep rolls soft, place a slice of bread in the container when storing them. The bread will absorb moisture, keeping the rolls fresh.

Final Thoughts on Baking and Frosting

Now that you’ve mastered baking and frosting blueberry cinnamon rolls, you’re one step closer to creating bakery-quality treats at home! Whether you prefer a classic vanilla glaze, a rich cream cheese frosting, or a tangy lemon drizzle, these soft, gooey, and flavorful rolls are guaranteed to impress.

Tips for the Best Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls

How to Achieve Soft and Fluffy Rolls

  • Use warm milk (not too hot) to activate the yeast properly.
  • Allow enough rising time for a light and airy texture.
  • Don’t overbake—remove from the oven when the tops are just golden.

Can You Make These Rolls Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the rolls the night before and refrigerate them overnight. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

Variations and Substitutions

Different Fillings to Try

  • Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls – Swap blueberries for raspberries.
  • Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls – Use fresh strawberries instead.
  • Nutty Blueberry Rolls – Add chopped pecans or walnuts.

Gluten-Free and Vegan Options

  • Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
  • Swap butter for coconut oil and use dairy-free milk for a vegan-friendly recipe.

FAQs About Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls

1. Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to prevent a soggy filling.

2. How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for 5 days.

3. Can I freeze blueberry cinnamon rolls?

Yes! Freeze unbaked rolls after assembling, then bake when needed.

4. Why are my cinnamon rolls not fluffy?

This could be due to over-kneading or not allowing the dough enough time to rise.

5. Can I use cream cheese frosting instead of glaze?

Absolutely! A cream cheese glaze pairs perfectly with these rolls.

Conclusion

Blueberry cinnamon rolls are a delicious way to enjoy a bakery-style treat at home. With a soft dough, a rich blueberry filling, and a sweet glaze, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save some for later, these rolls are sure to impress!

For more delicious desserts, be sure to check out:

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