Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

A Perfect Thanksgiving Morning Treat

These cherry cinnamon rolls with homemade filling are everything you want in a cozy, festive breakfast. Soft, buttery dough is wrapped around a thick cherry pie-style filling, then topped with a creamy layer of tangy frosting. This recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving breakfast or brunch, offering a sweet start to a day of gratitude and indulgence.

Jump to:

• A Perfect Thanksgiving Morning Treat
• Why These Cherry Cinnamon Rolls Are a Must-Try
• Ingredients and Substitutions
• How to Make Cherry Cinnamon Rolls
• Expert Tips for Best Results
• Serving Suggestions
• Storing and Reheating
• Frequently Asked Questions
• More Sweet Roll Recipes to Try
• Share and Save on Pinterest
• Cherry Cinnamon Rolls with Homemade Filling

The tart cherries bring a vibrant, fruity punch to each bite, balancing out the sweetness of the icing and dough. What makes this even better is the use of frozen cherries, so you can enjoy it during the holidays and all year round.

this recipe

Why These Cherry Cinnamon Rolls Are a Must-Try

Simple, Reliable Dough

The yeast-based dough is enriched with milk, butter, and eggs, creating a soft, slightly sweet bread that rises beautifully. It's easy to work with and only needs about one hour to rise.

A Homemade Cherry Filling You’ll Want to Eat by the Spoonful

Forget canned filling. This version simmers frozen cherries with sugar and thickens them with cornstarch to create a glossy, flavorful center. The filling is thick enough to stay put when rolling, making these rolls as neat as they are delicious.

Perfect for the Holidays

This recipe is Thanksgiving morning-ready. The rolls can be prepped the night before and baked fresh for breakfast, filling your home with the warm scent of cinnamon and cherries. Serve them alongside other holiday breakfast staples for a seasonal spread your guests will love.

Ingredients and Substitutions

For the Cherry Filling

• 3 ½ cups frozen cherries
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup cold water
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

You can substitute fresh cherries when in season. If you're out of cornstarch, use the same amount of all-purpose flour to thicken the filling.

For the Dough

• ¼ cup warm water
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• ¾ cup whole milk
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 4 ½ cups bread flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature

If using all-purpose flour, you may need to add a bit more to achieve the same dough texture. Plant-based milk can be used for a dairy-free option.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
• 3 oz cream cheese, room temperature
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1–3 tablespoons whole milk

For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese, or opt for a simple powdered sugar glaze.

How to Make Cherry Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Make the Cherry Filling

Combine the cherries and sugar in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the cherries release their juices. Mix the cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the cherries. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens. Transfer the filling to a bowl and refrigerate until cool.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

Mix warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar in a small bowl. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes until foamy.

Step 3: Mix the Dough

Whisk the milk, sugar, and eggs into the bloomed yeast. Add the flour and salt, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Add the softened butter and knead for about 10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

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

Step 5: Roll and Fill

Roll the dough out into a 14-by-16-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the cooled cherry filling over the dough, leaving a one-inch border. Roll it up tightly, starting from the longer edge. Slice into 12 rolls and place them in a greased 11-by-15-inch baking dish.

Step 6: Second Rise

Let the rolls rise again for 30 to 40 minutes until puffy. Preheat your oven to 350°F while the rolls rise.

Step 7: Bake and Frost

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until golden brown. Let the rolls cool slightly before spreading the cream cheese frosting over the top.

Expert Tips for Best Results

Use Fully Cooled Filling

Warm filling will soften the dough and make rolling messy. Make the filling first and let it chill completely before using.

Cut Rolls Cleanly

Use a sharp non-serrated knife or dental floss to cut the rolls without squishing the dough.

Make Ahead for Thanksgiving

You can prepare the dough and fill the rolls the night before. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. Let the rolls come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.

Serving Suggestions

How to Serve These on Thanksgiving Morning

Serve warm with a side of crispy turkey bacon, scrambled eggs, or a breakfast casserole. These cherry cinnamon rolls are festive enough to take center stage on your Thanksgiving breakfast table.

Garnish Ideas

• Dust with extra powdered sugar
• Add a drizzle of maple glaze
• Top with chopped toasted pecans for crunch

Drinks to Pair With

• Hot spiced cider
• Maple lattes
• A chilled glass of milk for the classic combo

Storing and Reheating

How to Store Leftovers

Keep rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months.

How to Reheat Without Drying Out

Warm individual rolls in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds. To reheat a whole batch, cover the pan with foil and bake at 300°F for 10 to 15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Variations to Try

Add a Fall Twist

Add cinnamon and nutmeg to the cherry filling for a warmer flavor that fits right into your Thanksgiving breakfast menu.

Make It Chocolate-Cherry

Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the cherry filling before rolling for a rich dessert-style twist.

Go Almond-Cherry

Replace the vanilla in the frosting with almond extract and garnish with sliced almonds.

More Sweet Roll Recipes to Try

If you love this recipe, you’ll enjoy these other irresistible roll recipes:

• Caramel Rolls Recipe for Thanksgiving Morning
• Best Cinnamon Rolls Ever
• Easy One-Hour Cloverleaf Dinner Rolls

Share and Save on Pinterest

Love this recipe? Be sure to share it or save it for later on Pinterest: Follow Bake with Lina on Pinterest

These cherry cinnamon rolls are a festive addition to your Thanksgiving morning traditions. Whether you're enjoying them with family or preparing a beautiful brunch spread, this recipe offers comfort, flavor, and a homemade touch that everyone will appreciate.

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