Blackberry Raspberry Sweet Rolls: Soft, Gooey Delight

Soft & Gooey Blackberry Raspberry Sweet Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon rolls, offering a burst of tangy berries wrapped in a soft, pillowy dough that stays irresistibly moist for days. The secret lies in the tangzhong method, ensuring a bakery-style texture that will have your loved ones coming back for more.

I discovered this recipe during a lazy weekend, craving something unique for brunch, and it has since become a staple at our family gatherings. The sweet aroma of these rolls baking in the oven has a way of drawing everyone in, making them perfect for celebrations or cozy mornings alike.

Whether you enjoy them with a steaming cup of coffee, a glass of cold milk, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert, these berry rolls are sure to become a beloved treat in your home. Experiment with different fruit fillings or seasonal twists to create your own signature version of these Soft & Gooey Blackberry Raspberry Sweet Rolls that will have everyone asking for more.

Quick Benefits

• Pillowy Texture: The tangzhong method creates a soft, bakery-style texture that stays fresh for days.
• Versatile Flavor: Easily customizable with different fruits and added ingredients for a variety of flavor combinations.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for brunch gatherings and special celebrations, loved by both sweet and savory breakfast enthusiasts.
• Make-Ahead Option: Conveniently prepare the night before, ideal for holiday mornings or hosting guests.

Why You’ll Love This Blackberry Raspberry Sweet Rolls: Soft, Gooey Delight Recipe

• Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of tangy blackberries and raspberries in these sweet rolls offers a refreshing twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, making them a delightful surprise for your taste buds.
• Soft, Bakery-Style Texture: Thanks to the tangzhong method, these rolls boast a pillowy, soft texture that stays fresh for days, elevating your breakfast or brunch experience to bakery-quality levels.
• Rave Reviews: With feedback like “I need these in my life regularly” and requests for the recipe, these rolls have proven to be a crowd-pleaser, even winning over those who aren’t typically drawn to sweet treats.
• Versatile Options: The recipe offers various flavor variations, from summery twists with strawberries and lemon zest to indulgent options like a berry cheesecake version or a festive touch with orange zest during the holidays, ensuring there’s a version for every season and palate.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for busy mornings or entertaining, you can prepare these rolls the night before, refrigerate them, and finish them off in the morning, making them a stress-free option for hosting guests or special occasions.
• Family Favorite: These rolls have quickly become a beloved staple at family brunches and holiday mornings, with their vibrant purple frosting adding a touch of magic that makes every breakfast feel like a special occasion.
• Serving Suggestions: Whether you pair them with a strong cup of coffee, a savory egg casserole, fresh fruit, cold milk, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert, these rolls are versatile enough to complement any breakfast or brunch spread and bring joy to those who savor them.

Ingredients for Blackberry Raspberry Sweet Rolls: Soft, Gooey Delight

For the Blackberry Raspberry Jam

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 cup frozen blackberries
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup frozen raspberries
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract

For the Tangzhong (Starter)

• 1/4 cup bread flour
• 3/4 cup water

For the Cinnamon Roll Dough

• 3 2/3 cups bread flour
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1/3 cup heavy cream, room temperature
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/3 cup whole milk, room temperature
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
• 1 large egg, room temperature

For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed

For the Cinnamon Crumb Topping

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Berry Icing

• 2-3 tablespoons reserved blackberry raspberry jam
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract
• 2 tablespoons whole milk
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

How to Make Blackberry Raspberry Sweet Rolls: Soft, Gooey Delight

Step 1: Make the Berry Jam

Combine blackberries, raspberries, brown sugar, vanilla, and lemon juice in a pot. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until berries release juices and start to bubble. Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl; stir into berries. Cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened. Set aside 2-3 tablespoons for frosting; let both portions cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Tangzhong

Combine water and bread flour in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until a paste-like slurry forms, about 4-5 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and set aside for later use.

Step 3: Make the Dough

Combine bread flour, brown sugar, instant yeast, and salt in the bowl of a stand mixer. Add heavy cream, whole milk, egg, vanilla bean paste, and prepared tangzhong. Knead with the dough hook on low speed for 2 minutes until a rough dough forms.

Step 4: Add Butter to Dough

While the mixer is still running on low speed, add the softened butter gradually, one tablespoon at a time, ensuring each addition is fully mixed before adding more. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 5: First Rise

Take the dough out of the bowl and shape it into a smooth ball by folding the sides into the bottom. Return it to the bowl with the seam side down, cover with plastic wrap, and allow it to rest for 30 minutes.

Step 6: Prepare Filling

Prepare the cinnamon filling by mixing softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until smooth.

Step 7: Shape the Rolls

Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a 15×21 inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon mixture evenly, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Then, spread the cooled berry filling over the cinnamon layer, excluding the reserved portion.

Step 8: Cut and Roll

Cut the dough into twelve 1 3/4-inch strips using a pizza cutter or sharp knife. Roll each strip into a spiral away from you and place on a parchment-lined 9×13 inch baking pan.

Step 9: Second Rise

Place a piece of plastic wrap over the pan and let it sit for 1-2 hours until the rolls double in size. Preheat the oven to 325°F (162°C).

Step 10: Prepare Crumb Topping

While the rolls are nearing completion of their rising time, combine flour, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter to create the crumb topping.

Step 11: Bake

After the rolls have risen, sprinkle the crumb topping over them. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the center rolls reach an internal temperature of 185°F.

Step 12: Make Icing

Once the rolls have cooled slightly, make the icing by whisking together powdered sugar, melted butter, heavy cream, milk, vanilla, and the leftover berry jam until smooth.

Step 13: Finish and Serve

Drizzle the berry icing over the warm rolls and serve promptly for optimal enjoyment.

Storage Tips

Once you have baked and frosted these Soft & Gooey Blackberry Raspberry Sweet Rolls, storing them properly will help maintain their freshness and flavor. If you plan to enjoy them within a day or two, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will prevent them from drying out while keeping them easily accessible for a quick treat or breakfast option.

For longer storage, particularly if you want to prepare them ahead of time for a special occasion or holiday morning, it’s best to freeze the unfrosted rolls. Once the rolls have completely cooled, wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn and place them in the freezer. They can be stored this way for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the rolls in the refrigerator overnight and then warm them before frosting. This method ensures that the rolls maintain their delicious texture and flavors when you’re ready to serve them.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a different berry variation, you can swap the blackberries and raspberries with blueberries or a mix of blueberries and strawberries. Blueberries will provide a similar tangy sweetness like the raspberries but with a slightly different flavor profile. If using strawberries, consider slicing them thinly to ensure they cook evenly within the rolls. Adding a touch of lemon zest to the berry filling can enhance the fruity flavors and add a refreshing zing.

To create a creamier and tangier filling variation, incorporate cream cheese into the filling mixture. Mix softened cream cheese with the sugar and cinnamon to create a luscious and rich cheesecake-like filling that pairs wonderfully with the berries. The cream cheese will add a delightful creamy texture and a slightly tangy contrast to the sweet berries. You can adjust the amount of cream cheese based on your preference for a more pronounced or subtle cream cheese flavor.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful presentation, serve these Soft & Gooey Blackberry Raspberry Sweet Rolls on a rustic wooden platter drizzled with the vibrant purple blackberry raspberry frosting. Add a sprinkle of fresh blackberries and raspberries on the side to enhance the berry flavors and provide a pop of color. Pair these rolls with a pot of freshly brewed coffee or a fruity iced tea for a perfect brunch or dessert spread that will impress your guests with both taste and aesthetics.

To elevate these rolls for a special occasion or celebration, arrange them on a tiered dessert stand to showcase the layers of soft, gooey goodness. Dust the rolls with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch before serving. For an extra indulgent treat, serve each roll with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side. The combination of warm, fruity sweetness with creamy coolness will create a memorable dining experience that your guests will be talking about long after the last bite.

FAQs for Blackberry Raspberry Sweet Rolls: Soft, Gooey Delight

Can I use fresh berries instead of frozen ones for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute fresh berries for frozen ones in this recipe. Just keep in mind that fresh berries may release more moisture during cooking, so you might need to adjust the amount of cornstarch used to thicken the filling.

Can I make the dough ahead of time and bake the rolls later?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight before baking. After shaping the rolls and placing them in the pan, cover tightly and refrigerate. The next morning, let them come to room temperature and complete their second rise before baking.

Can I freeze the baked rolls for later consumption?

Yes, you can freeze the completely cooled unfrosted rolls tightly wrapped for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the rolls overnight in the refrigerator and warm them before frosting. This is a great option for meal prepping or storing leftovers.

How can I customize these rolls for different flavor variations?

You can customize these rolls by swapping the berries for other fruits like strawberries or apples, adding different spices like nutmeg or orange zest, or incorporating ingredients like cream cheese for a unique twist. Get creative with the fillings and toppings to create your own signature sweet rolls!

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Soft & Gooey Blackberry Raspberry Sweet Rolls have truly become a staple in my kitchen, bringing joy to family gatherings and making ordinary mornings feel extraordinary. The combination of tangy berries and pillowy soft dough is a match made in culinary heaven, and the versatility of this recipe allows for endless creative variations to suit different seasons and occasions.

Whether you’re serving these rolls for brunch, as a dessert, or simply as a special treat for yourself, the heartwarming aroma and delightful flavors are sure to make them a crowd-pleaser. So go ahead, whip up a batch of these delicious rolls, share them with loved ones, and watch as their faces light up with delight. Here’s to indulging in the simple pleasures of freshly baked treats and creating cherished memories around the table with these Soft & Gooey Blackberry Raspberry Sweet Rolls.