Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling: Soft & Sweet

Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling are the kind of treat that instantly makes your kitchen smell like a cozy bakery. Soft, fluffy dough swirled with warm cinnamon sugar and layered with sweet-tart cherries creates the perfect balance of comfort and freshness. If you love classic cinnamon rolls but want something extra special, these Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling take things to the next level.

In this complete guide, you’ll learn how to make Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling from scratch, including a thick homemade cherry filling, pillowy yeast dough, expert rolling tips, proofing secrets, and baking techniques for golden perfection. Whether you’re preparing a weekend brunch or a holiday breakfast, this recipe delivers bakery-style results right at home.

JUMP TO

Table of Contents

Why Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling Are So Special

Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling stand out because they combine two beloved flavors: warm cinnamon and bright cherries. While traditional cinnamon rolls are rich and sweet, adding cherries introduces a fruity twist that feels fresh yet indulgent.

What Makes Cherry Cinnamon Rolls Different?

There are several reasons these rolls shine:

• Sweet cinnamon swirl with bursts of cherry flavor
• Soft, fluffy yeast dough
• Balanced sweetness with slight tartness
• Perfect for breakfast or dessert

Because cherries add moisture and flavor, Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling feel both comforting and refreshing at the same time.

The Magic of Homemade Cherry Filling

While canned pie filling might seem convenient, making your own cherry filling truly elevates this recipe. Homemade filling offers:

• Better texture control
• Adjustable sweetness
• Real fruit flavor
• No artificial aftertaste

By preparing a thick, glossy cherry filling from scratch, your Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling will taste vibrant and fresh.

Why Yeast Dough Makes the Difference

Soft dough is the foundation of great cinnamon rolls. Without proper kneading and proofing, rolls can turn dense. However, when yeast is activated correctly and the dough is allowed to rise fully, Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling become light and airy.

Ingredients for Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

Before starting, gather everything you need for both the dough and the filling.

Dough Ingredients

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

These simple ingredients create the base for Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling.

Homemade Cherry Filling Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

This filling provides the signature fruity swirl inside your Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling.

How to Make Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling Step by Step

Now let’s break down the entire process carefully to ensure perfect results.

Step 1: Prepare the Homemade Cherry Filling

Start with the filling so it has time to cool before spreading.

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon.
2. Stir occasionally as cherries release juices.
3. Mix cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water, then stir into the cherry mixture.
4. Continue cooking until thickened, about 5–7 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
6. Let cool completely.

Cooling is essential. If the filling is warm, it may melt the dough and make shaping difficult.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

If it doesn’t foam, the yeast may be inactive. Always ensure your milk is warm, not hot, as high temperatures can kill yeast.

Because proper activation ensures rise, this step is crucial for soft Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling.

Step 3: Mix and Knead the Dough

Add melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Proper kneading develops gluten, which gives Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling their fluffy structure.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

Because yeast works best in warm environments, avoid drafty areas.

Step 5: Rolling and Filling

Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it into a large rectangle (about 16×12 inches).

Add Cinnamon Sugar Layer

Before adding cherries, spread:

• 2 tablespoons softened butter
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Spread evenly across the dough.

Add Cherry Filling

Next, spoon the cooled cherry filling over the cinnamon layer. Spread evenly, leaving a small border around edges.

Because the filling is thick, it should stay in place when rolling.

Step 6: Roll and Cut

Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log.

Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut into 12 equal rolls.

Place rolls into a greased 9×13 baking dish, spacing slightly apart.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the dish and allow rolls to rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

This second rise ensures Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling become extra soft and fluffy.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Bake for 22–28 minutes, or until tops are lightly golden.

Avoid overbaking. Slightly soft centers are ideal because they continue cooking slightly after removal.

Let cool for 10 minutes before frosting.

Frosting Options for Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling are delicious on their own, but frosting takes them to the next level. Because the rolls are soft and slightly sweet, a creamy topping adds balance and richness.

Classic Cream Cheese Frosting

For a traditional finish, mix:

• 4 oz softened cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons softened butter
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1–2 tablespoons milk (as needed for smoothness)

Beat until smooth and creamy. Spread over warm Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling so the frosting melts slightly into the swirls.

The tanginess of cream cheese pairs beautifully with sweet cherries and warm cinnamon.

Light Vanilla Glaze Option

If you prefer something lighter, whisk:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Drizzle over slightly cooled rolls for a glossy finish.

Because the glaze is thinner, it allows the cherry flavor to shine even more.

Flavor Variations to Try

Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling are versatile, which means you can customize them to match your preferences.

Almond Cherry Twist

Add ¼ teaspoon almond extract to the cherry filling. Cherries and almond naturally complement each other, creating a bakery-style flavor.

Chocolate Cherry Rolls

Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the cherry filling before rolling. The chocolate melts into the swirl, making Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling even more indulgent.

Orange Zest Brightness

Add fresh orange zest to the dough or frosting for a citrusy lift. This adds brightness and enhances the cherry notes.

Brown Sugar Cinnamon Upgrade

Swap white sugar in the filling for dark brown sugar. This deepens the caramel-like undertone of the rolls.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling stay soft when stored properly.

Storing at Room Temperature

• Store in an airtight container
• Keep at room temperature for up to 2 days

Because the rolls contain fruit, avoid leaving them uncovered.

Refrigeration

If storing longer:

• Refrigerate for up to 5 days
• Warm before serving for best texture

Freezing Unbaked Rolls

To freeze before baking:

1. Prepare rolls through shaping stage.
2. Place in freezer-safe dish.
3. Cover tightly and freeze.

When ready to bake, thaw overnight in refrigerator and allow to rise before baking.

Freezing Baked Rolls

You can freeze fully baked Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling for up to 2 months. Wrap individually for convenience.

Reheat in oven at 300°F for 8–10 minutes to restore softness.

Nutritional Breakdown

While Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling are a sweet treat, portion control keeps them balanced.

Estimated nutrition per roll (without frosting):

Nutrient	Approximate Amount
Calories	320–360
Fat	10g
Carbohydrates	55g
Sugar	25g
Protein	6g
Fiber	2g

With cream cheese frosting, calories may increase to approximately 400 per roll.

Because these are meant as an occasional indulgence, enjoy them mindfully as part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

Conclusion: A Bakery-Style Treat Made at Home

Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling combine fluffy yeast dough, rich cinnamon swirl, and bright cherry flavor in every bite. Because the filling is made from scratch, the flavor is fresh, vibrant, and perfectly balanced.

Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday morning, weekend brunch, or special dessert, Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling deliver soft texture and irresistible sweetness. Once you try this homemade version, you may never go back to plain cinnamon rolls again.

Print