Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of baking where we turn simple ingredients into heavenly treats! Today, we’re making Blueberry Cheesecake Swirl Rolls. Imagine pulling apart fluffy, golden rolls swirled with a rich, creamy cheesecake filling and bursting with sweet, juicy blueberries. These rolls are perfect for a weekend brunch or a cozy afternoon snack, and they’ll fill your home with a warm, inviting aroma that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg, and the yeast mixture until well combined.
- Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- While the dough is rising, prepare the cream cheese filling by mixing the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until smooth. Set aside.
- In another bowl, combine the blueberries, lemon juice, and cornstarch, gently stirring to coat the blueberries without breaking them.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the blueberry mixture on top, distributing it evenly.
- Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice it into even pieces, about 1.5 inches thick.
- Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Brush the tops lightly with the egg wash and then bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Once baked, allow the rolls to cool slightly in the baking dish before serving. Enjoy the delightful aroma as you dig in!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to substitute the blueberries with raspberries or blackberries for a different fruity twist.
- If you want to make these rolls ahead of time, you can prepare the dough, fill, and slice them, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Just let them come to room temperature and rise before baking.
- A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a lovely finishing touch.
Cooking Techniques
Don’t be intimidated by the thought of yeast! Ensuring the milk is warm (not hot) will help awaken the yeast for the dough to rise perfectly. Kneading is crucial to develop gluten, which gives the rolls their soft texture. And remember, the second rise before baking is key to fluffy rolls – it’s the final touch that makes all the difference!
FAQ
- Can I use frozen blueberries? Absolutely! Just remember to slightly thaw them and drain excess liquid before using.
- How should I store leftover rolls? Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to a month!
- Can I make these rolls vegan? Yes! Substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative, use vegan butter, and replace the egg with a flax egg or applesauce.
Conclusion
These Blueberry Cheesecake Swirl Rolls are a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds: the comfort of freshly baked rolls and the deliciousness of cheesecake. With their tender dough and luscious filling, they are sure to become a beloved recipe in your home. So gather your ingredients and let’s bake some joy into your day!