Name: Blackberry Cinnamon Rolls with Blackberry Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 240g (1 cup) whole milk; 2 1/2 teaspoons instant or active dry yeast; 50g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar; 530g (4 1/4 cups) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon salt; 85g (6 Tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 300g (10.5 oz) blackberries; 50g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar; 1 1/2 Tablespoons cornstarch; 1 Tablespoon lemon juice; Pinch of salt; 113g (4 oz) cream cheese, softened to room temperature; 30g (2 Tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 180g (1 1/2 cups) powdered sugar; 3 Tablespoons blackberry filling; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract or paste; Pinch of salt

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Let me introduce you to a true breakfast delight that feels like a warm hug in every bite—our Blackberry Cinnamon Rolls with Blackberry Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These rolls combine soft, tender dough enveloping a luscious blackberry compote, finishing off with a swirl of rich blackberry cream cheese frosting. Perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy, with just a hint of spice, this recipe brings an irresistible fresh berry twist to the classic cinnamon roll. Whether you’re hosting brunch or craving a special treat, these rolls will have everyone smiling for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A silver bowl filled with one large round dough ball that has grown and risen, showing a smooth, light beige surface with a soft texture. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, and the dough fills nearly the whole inside space, creating a slight dome shape. The light shines softly on the dough, highlighting its smoothness. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic happens with a handful of simple but essential ingredients, each carefully chosen to create the perfect texture, flavor, and vibrant color that make these rolls unforgettable. From the creamy butter for tenderness to the fresh blackberries for that burst of natural sweetness, every element plays a starring role.

Whole milk (240g / 1 cup): Warm milk helps activate the yeast and creates a soft, tender dough.
Instant or active dry yeast (2 1/2 teaspoons): The essential leavening agent that makes these rolls fluffy and light.
Granulated sugar (50g / 1/4 cup, plus extra for filling): Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the dough and filling.
All-purpose flour (530g / 4 1/4 cups, plus more for dusting): The base that creates structure for these tender rolls.
Large eggs (2): Provide richness and help bind the dough.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Unsalted butter (85g / 6 Tablespoons, softened): Makes the dough soft and adds a luscious mouthfeel.
Blackberries (300g / 10.5 oz): Fresh fruit for the juicy, tangy filling and frosting base.
Cornstarch (1 1/2 Tablespoons): Thickens the blackberry filling to a perfect spreadable consistency.
Lemon juice (1 Tablespoon): Brightens the filling with a bit of citrus zing.
Cream cheese (113g / 4oz, softened): Creates that irresistibly creamy frosting.
Powdered sugar (180g / 1 1/2 cup): Sweetens and thickens the frosting beautifully.
Vanilla extract or paste (1/2 teaspoon): Adds depth to the frosting’s flavor.

How to Make Blackberry Cinnamon Rolls with Blackberry Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Activate the Yeast

Gently warm your milk to a cozy 95-104°F (35-40°C) to wake up the yeast. Pour the warm milk into your mixing bowl and sprinkle the yeast along with the sugar on top. If you’re using active dry yeast, let this mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy—this ensures your rolls will be light and airy. Instant yeast skips this step, making it quick and easy when you’re pressed for time.

Step 2: Form the Dough

Add the flour, salt, and eggs to the yeast mixture and start mixing with a dough hook on low speed. Look for a thick dough beginning to form. Gradually add the softened butter, a few cubes at a time, mixing for about 10 minutes on medium speed until the dough becomes elastic and smooth, pulling cleanly away from the bowl. If you prefer, you can knead by hand—it’s therapeutic! Just be patient, work the butter in slowly, and you’ll end up with a silky dough that’s just right.

Step 3: First Rise

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with wrap or beeswax and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—typically 1 to 1 1/2 hours. A warm oven with a mug of hot water nearby creates the perfect rising environment. If you’d rather prepare this the night before, refrigerate the dough covered tightly and let it rise slowly overnight—this builds even better flavor.

Step 4: Make the Blackberry Filling

While your dough rises, whisk together blackberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan on low heat. Stir constantly until the berries start breaking down and releasing their juices. Increase heat to medium and bring to a boil, stirring continuously so the mixture thickens into a glossy, jelly-like filling. Let it cool to room temperature, then chill in the fridge until ready to use. This filling is what makes these rolls stand out with fresh and vibrant blackberry flavor.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Lightly flour your surface and gently punch down the dough. Roll it out into a 12×16 inch rectangle—this generous size lets you spread the blackberry filling evenly. Use an offset spatula to spread the filling, leaving a 1-inch border to avoid overflow when rolling. Carefully roll the dough lengthwise into a log and slice it into 12 equal rolls using dental floss for clean cuts or a sharp serrated knife. Arrange the rolls snugly in a greased or parchment-lined 9×13 inch pan and cover to let them rise again until nearly doubled.

Step 6: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the rolls for 25-28 minutes until golden and caramelized on top. If they start browning too quickly, gently cover with foil. The aroma while they bake will fill your kitchen with a sweet, fruity warmth that will have everyone waiting impatiently to dig in.

Step 7: Prepare the Blackberry Cream Cheese Frosting

While the rolls are still baking, whip up the frosting. Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar, then add 3 tablespoons of the reserved blackberry filling, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat on high speed until fluffy and luscious—the perfect topping to spread generously over warm rolls.

Step 8: Frost and Serve

As soon as your rolls come out of the oven, dollop the blackberry cream cheese frosting on top, allowing it to melt slightly into the warm swirls. This final step guarantees a heavenly, melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite.

How to Serve Blackberry Cinnamon Rolls with Blackberry Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

A single square piece of a soft, light-colored cake sits on a white plate, showing its fluffy and airy texture on the side where a bite is taken out. The cake is layered with a dark red and purple berry filling in the middle, which looks thick and juicy. On top, there is a thick layer of creamy pink frosting with small bits of berries visible inside, spreading unevenly over the edges. The background has a white marbled texture with an out-of-focus baking tray holding similar cakes. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra pop of freshness and color, sprinkle a few fresh blackberries on top or add a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted pecans for a delightful crunch. A light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving adds an elegant snowy finish that makes these rolls irresistible at first glance.

Side Dishes

Pair these rolls with a hot cup of coffee or freshly brewed tea to balance the sweetness. A side of creamy Greek yogurt mixed with honey and extra berries complements the fruity cinnamon rolls and adds a refreshing tang to your breakfast or brunch spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the rolls in their baking pan family-style so everyone can pull one out warm and gooey. Or arrange them on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of extra blackberry filling and frosting for a DIY topping bar—perfect for gatherings and encouraging everyone to get creative.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover blackberry cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay soft and fresh for up to three days, making them perfect for savoring throughout the week. When ready to enjoy, just microwave briefly to regain that fresh-from-the-oven softness.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead or stash some for later, freeze the shaped but unbaked rolls before their second rise. Simply cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and then let rise before baking as usual.

Reheating

To bring these rolls back to life, heat them in a warm oven at 300°F (150°C) for 8-10 minutes or microwave individual rolls for about 20-30 seconds. Finish with an extra swirl of leftover frosting or a spoonful of warmed blackberry compote for that freshly baked taste.

FAQs

Can I substitute frozen blackberries for fresh in this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess juice before cooking the filling to avoid a watery consistency. Frozen berries work well and still give that fresh fruity flavor.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, swap the butter and cream cheese for plant-based alternatives, such as vegan butter and cream cheese. Use unsweetened almond or oat milk instead of whole milk. It won’t compromise the taste—still delicious!

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough should roughly double in size and look puffy and soft when gently pressed with a finger—the indentation should slowly bounce back. This tells you the yeast has done its job perfectly.

Can I make these rolls without a stand mixer?

Certainly! You can mix and knead the dough by hand. It just takes more elbow grease, but it’s very doable, and many bakers love the tactile process.

How sweet are these rolls? Can I adjust the sugar?

These rolls strike a beautiful balance—sweet but not overpowering, thanks to the fresh blackberry tartness. You can reduce sugar slightly if you prefer less sweet, but keep enough to help the yeast activate properly and achieve that golden crust.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve got the full scoop on making these incredible Blackberry Cinnamon Rolls with Blackberry Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe, I hope you feel inspired to bake your own batch. There’s truly nothing like that first warm bite of soft dough bursting with vibrant blackberry goodness and buttery cinnamon spice. Trust me, these rolls will quickly become a beloved staple at your breakfast table and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So go ahead—roll up your sleeves and treat yourself to a sweet blackberry morning you won’t forget!