Homemade Cherry Limeade Sweet Rolls: The Ultimate Sweet & Tart Brunch Treat
Indulge in the irresistible combination of sweet and tart with these magnificent **Homemade Cherry Limeade Sweet Rolls**. Featuring a light and fluffy dough, bursting with a vibrant cherry filling, and crowned with a zesty lime-infused icing, these rolls are not just a treat, they’re a celebration of flavor. They make for a truly perfect idea for brunch, breakfast, or any special occasion!
Many years ago, when I first ventured into making these delightful sweet rolls, I was filled with apprehension. The idea of working with homemade yeast dough seemed daunting, a skill reserved for experienced bakers. Yet, to my surprise and immense satisfaction, they baked up flawlessly, proving to be a huge success! This experience taught me that baking homemade yeast rolls is often much easier than it appears. If you’ve ever felt nervous about attempting a yeast-based recipe, let this be your encouragement: you can absolutely do it, and the reward of these **fluffy sweet rolls** is more than worth the effort.
Discover the Magic of Cherry Limeade Sweet Rolls
This recipe for **Cherry Limeade Sweet Rolls** masterfully blends the classic appeal of a homemade sweet roll with the refreshing, zesty kick of a cherry limeade. The foundation is a carefully crafted yeasted sweet dough, given ample time to rise, ensuring each roll is incredibly light, airy, and fluffy. This beautiful dough serves as the perfect vessel for a vibrant, fresh cherry filling. Infused with just the right amount of lime juice and zest, the filling offers a delightful tang that perfectly balances the natural sweetness of the cherries. Once these rolls emerge golden and fragrant from the oven, they are generously drizzled with a tart lime glaze, creating an explosion of flavor that is both comforting and exhilarating. It’s a truly unique twist on traditional sweet rolls, offering a bright and cheerful taste that’s simply unforgettable.
Your Go-To Cherry Limeade Roll Recipe for Any Occasion
These decadent sweet rolls are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for almost any occasion. Imagine starting your day with one alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea – an instant upgrade to your morning routine. They are also an absolute showstopper for brunch, providing a unique and impressive treat that guests will adore. For an afternoon pick-me-up or a delightful dessert, these rolls hit all the right notes. Don’t worry if fresh cherries aren’t in season; frozen, pitted cherries work beautifully as a substitute. Just ensure they are thawed and any excess moisture is blotted away before incorporating them into the filling.
If you’ve fallen in love with this sweet roll recipe, you might also enjoy exploring other delightful variations. Consider trying our Banana Pecan Rolls for a comforting, nutty flavor, or our bright and zesty Lemon Sweet Rolls. For a fruity twist, the Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls are always a hit. And if your heart truly belongs to the cherry limeade flavor, be sure to check out our copycat recipe for Sonic’s Cherry Limeade or our indulgent Cherry Limeade Baked Donuts – perfect for satisfying that unique craving!
Mastering Homemade Sweet Rolls: Easier Than You Think!
Many home bakers find the prospect of working with yeast a bit intimidating, especially if it’s a new experience. But I’m here to assure you, if I can bake these incredible sweet rolls, so can you! The process is surprisingly straightforward. All it requires are the right ingredients, a little patience, and a willingness to follow the steps. You’ll be amazed at the tender, fluffy texture and rich flavor you can achieve right in your own kitchen. There’s a profound satisfaction that comes from pulling a pan of warm, homemade sweet rolls from the oven, and these **Cherry Limeade Sweet Rolls** deliver that feeling in spades. Don’t let the yeast scare you; it’s a friendly ingredient that simply needs a bit of warmth and time to work its magic. The result is a truly rewarding baking experience.
Essential Ingredients for Your Cherry Limeade Sweet Rolls Adventure
Crafting these delectable **Cherry Limeade Sweet Rolls** starts with a selection of common kitchen staples, combined to create something truly special. For the precise measurements and detailed instructions, remember to scroll to the bottom of this post for the complete printable recipe card. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:
To Make the Fluffy Sweet Roll Dough:
- All-purpose flour – This forms the structural base of our fluffy sweet rolls, providing the perfect texture when combined with yeast.
- Sugar – Granulated sugar not only sweetens the dough but also feeds the yeast, helping it activate and rise beautifully.
- Salt – A pinch of salt is crucial for enhancing all the other flavors in the dough and balancing the sweetness.
- Yeast – The magical ingredient that makes these rolls light and airy. Active dry yeast is typically used, requiring a warm liquid to activate.
- Water – Lukewarm water helps to awaken the yeast and hydrate the dough.
- Milk – Adds richness and tenderness to the dough. While skim milk was used here, any type of milk will contribute to a wonderfully soft texture.
- Coconut oil – Used both in the dough and spread over it, coconut oil (or butter) provides moisture and a subtle richness.
- Egg – A large egg adds richness, helps bind the ingredients, and contributes to the dough’s tender crumb.
For the Zesty Cherry Limeade Filling:
- Cherries – The star of the show! Freshly washed, pitted, and sliced cherries are ideal, offering the best flavor and texture. However, frozen pitted cherries also work wonderfully; just be sure to thaw and drain them properly.
- Corn starch – This acts as a thickening agent, ensuring your cherry filling has a luscious consistency that holds its shape within the rolls.
- Sugar – A small amount of granulated sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the cherries, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
- Lime juice and zest – These are the crucial elements that introduce the signature “limeade” tang. Fresh lime juice provides brightness, while the zest delivers an intense citrus aroma and flavor, beautifully complementing the cherries.
To Make the Irresistible Lime Glaze:
- Powdered sugar – Also known as confectioner’s sugar, this finely milled sugar is essential for achieving the smooth, pourable texture of our glaze.
- Lime juice – Freshly squeezed lime juice is key here. It provides a bright, tart contrast to the sweet rolls and creates a vibrant, flavorful icing that truly elevates the entire dish. Bottled lime juice can be used, but fresh is always recommended for the best taste.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cherry Limeade Sweet Rolls
Follow these simple steps to create a batch of incredibly delicious and visually stunning **Cherry Limeade Sweet Rolls**. The process is broken down to ensure success for even novice bakers.
1. Crafting the Perfect Dough:
- In the bowl of your stand mixer, begin by combining all the dry ingredients: the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and yeast. Give them a quick stir to ensure they are well-integrated.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine the water, milk, and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil (or vegetable oil as an alternative). Heat this mixture on high power for approximately 1 minute, aiming for a lukewarm temperature that is comfortable to the touch but not too hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast.
- Attach the dough hook to your stand mixer. Gradually add the warm liquid mixture to the dry ingredients. Once partially combined, add the large egg. Knead the dough on low-medium speed for 4-5 minutes. The dough will be somewhat sticky, so remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is thoroughly mixed and kneaded.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured clean surface. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap and allow it to rest for 10 minutes. This brief rest helps the gluten relax, making the dough easier to roll.
2. Preparing the Flavorful Cherry Filling:
In a small saucepan, combine the washed, pitted, and sliced cherries, corn starch, 1 teaspoon of sugar, fresh lime zest, and lime juice. Cook this mixture over medium heat for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cherries darken in color and become soft, and the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. Once cooked, remove the filling from the heat and set it aside to cool completely. Cooling is essential to prevent the filling from melting the fat in the dough prematurely.
3. Rolling and Assembling Your Sweet Rolls:
Preheat your oven to a low 200º F. Lightly grease a rectangular baking dish with cooking spray – a 9×13 inch pan is typically ideal. On a lightly floured surface, roll the rested dough out into a large rectangle. If the dough is sticky, a little extra flour on your counter and rolling pin will help prevent sticking.
Once the cherry mixture has cooled, stir in the remaining 1/3 cup of granulated sugar. This additional sugar provides extra sweetness and helps the filling become even more luscious.
Evenly spread 2 tablespoons of softened coconut oil (or butter) over the entire surface of the rolled-out dough. Then, carefully spread the cooled cherry mixture over the oil-coated dough, leaving a small border at one edge. Starting from the long side closest to you, tightly roll the dough away from you into a log. Once rolled, pinch the seam firmly to seal it closed. Carefully slice the log in half, and then slice each half into six equal pieces, yielding a total of 12 beautiful rolls.
4. The Essential Rise:
Arrange the sliced rolls evenly in your prepared baking pan. Cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil. Turn off your oven (which was preheated to 200º F and then turned off), and place the covered rolls inside to rise. This warm, draft-free environment is perfect for the second rise, which should take 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the rolls have visibly expanded. After they have risen, gently remove them from the oven and set the foil aside.
5. Baking to Golden Perfection:
Now, preheat your oven to 350º F. Once it reaches temperature, place the uncovered rolls back into the oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the tops are beautifully golden brown and the rolls are cooked through. Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before applying the icing. This slight cooling period allows the rolls to set and prevents the icing from melting too quickly.
6. Glazing for the Ultimate Finish:
While the rolls are cooling, prepare your zesty lime icing. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh lime juice until a smooth, pourable glaze forms. Once the rolls have cooled to at least warm (or room temperature for a firmer glaze), generously spread the luscious lime icing over them. Serve these exquisite **homemade sweet rolls** immediately and enjoy the perfect harmony of sweet and tart flavors!
Storing Your Delicious Cherry Limeade Sweet Rolls:
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely, they’re that good!), store them in the baking pan, tightly covered, at room temperature for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked and cooled rolls in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature or gently warm them in the oven for a freshly baked taste.
Love These Rolls? Pin It for Later!
If these **Cherry Limeade Sweet Rolls** have captured your heart, don’t let this amazing recipe get lost! Be sure to pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board so you can easily find it whenever that sweet and tart craving strikes again!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cherry Limeade Sweet Rolls
- Can I use frozen cherries to make these sweet rolls? Yes, absolutely! Frozen pitted cherries are a perfectly acceptable substitute for fresh ones. Just be sure to thaw them completely and blot away any excess moisture before you prepare the filling to prevent it from becoming too watery.
- Is it okay to use bottled lime juice for the recipe? While freshly squeezed lime juice offers the best and most vibrant flavor, you can certainly use bottled lime juice as a convenient alternative. If you’re using concentrated bottled lime juice, you might need to adjust the amount slightly as its flavor can be much stronger. Always taste and adjust as you go.
- Can I make these rolls without a stand mixer? Yes, it is possible to make these rolls without a stand mixer. You’ll need to knead the dough by hand, which will take a bit more time and effort, usually around 8-10 minutes of vigorous kneading. While you might not achieve the exact same texture as with a mixer, your homemade sweet rolls will still turn out wonderfully delicious.
- How do I know if my yeast is active? To test your yeast, combine it with a pinch of sugar and the warm (not hot!) water or milk from the recipe. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes. If the mixture becomes foamy and bubbly, your yeast is active and ready to use! If not, your yeast may be old or dead, and it’s best to start with a new packet.
- Can I prepare the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can! After the first rise, you can punch down the dough, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. The next morning, simply let it come to room temperature for about 30-60 minutes before rolling it out and proceeding with the filling and final rise.
Important Baking Notes and Adjustments
I’ve found that for some bakers, particularly depending on factors like elevation, these rolls might not “fill” a standard 9×13 inch baking pan as completely, or they might spread a little too much and not achieve the desired “height.” Personally, I’ve always baked them successfully in a 9×13 pan without any issues. However, if you experience this or prefer a thicker, taller roll, simply bake them in a 9×9 inch pan instead. This will result in more compact rolls with a higher profile. Additionally, if using frozen tart cherries, make sure to thoroughly drain any excess liquid after thawing to prevent a watery filling that could make the rolls soggy.
Creative Substitutions to Make This Recipe Your Own
Don’t hesitate to get creative in the kitchen! When it comes to making substitutions in recipes, the goal is always to tailor it to your personal taste, what you have on hand, or specific dietary preferences. Make these delicious rolls truly your own!
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If fresh or frozen sweet cherries are hard to come by, you can opt for cherry pie filling. Just be mindful of the sugar content. Look for a can that specifies “no added sugar” to avoid an overly sweet result, especially with the additional sugar in the recipe and the sweet glaze.
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No rectangular baking pan? No problem! You can easily make these in a muffin tray. Each muffin well will create an individual cherry limeade “cupcake” or mini roll, just as tasty and perhaps even more charming to serve!
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For a quicker filling or a different texture, you could substitute the homemade cherry mixture with cherry jam or jelly. Ensure it’s a good quality jam for the best flavor outcome.
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While coconut oil is recommended for its subtle flavor and texture, feel free to use unsalted butter as a direct substitute for spreading over the dough.
Expert Tips & Tricks for Baking the Best Sweet Rolls
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Taste Your Cherries: Cherries can vary greatly in sweetness. Before you start baking, taste one or two from your batch at the grocery store or at home to ensure you’re working with nice, sweet cherries. This helps you anticipate the final flavor profile of your filling.
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Avoid the Wrong Cherries: Do not substitute maraschino cherries or canned sour cherries for the fresh or frozen sweet cherries specified in the recipe. Maraschino cherries are overly sweet and artificially flavored, while canned sour cherries have a very different texture and require significantly more sugar adjustment.
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Elevate Your Glaze: For an even more decadent sweet roll experience, consider topping your rolls with a rich cream cheese icing instead of the simple lime glaze. Or, for a truly luxurious touch, try this incredible White Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting.
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Utilize Leftover Cherries: If you find yourself with extra cherries after preparing your filling, don’t let them go to waste! There are countless delicious cherry recipes you can try, from pies and tarts to smoothies and sauces.
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Keep it Warm for Rising: Yeast loves warmth! Ensure your kitchen isn’t too cold, especially during the rising process. A slightly warm oven (turned off after heating) is an excellent, draft-free spot for your dough to rise beautifully.
More Delicious Bread and Roll Recipes to Love Next Time
If you’ve enjoyed baking these Cherry Limeade Sweet Rolls, you’re in for a treat! Explore some of our other cherished bread and roll recipes that are sure to become new favorites:
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Ice Cream Sticky Rolls
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Cinnamon Toffee Monkey Bread Muffins
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Homemade Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread
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Upside Down Blueberry Sweet Rolls
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Cinnamon Streusel Banana Bread
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Brioche Cinnamon Rolls
These **Cherry Limeade Sweet Rolls** offer the ultimate twist on classic cinnamon rolls, delivering a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. Each bite is reminiscent of your favorite homemade cherry limeade recipe, now in a delightfully fluffy and indulgent form. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this truly special treat!
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Print Recipe
Cherry Limeade Sweet Rolls
Equipment
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12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
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Kitchenaid Stand Mixer
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KitchenAid Hand Mixer
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9×13 Pyrex Baking Dish with a Lid
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KitchenAid Gourmet Rolling Pin, One Size, Red
Ingredients
- For the Rolls:
- 2 3/4 cup all purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/4 teaspoon yeast
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup coconut oil divided
- 1 egg large
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup cherries washed, pitted and sliced
- 2 teaspoon corn starch
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- zest of 1 lime
- juice of 1/2 lime
- 1/3 cup sugar
- For the Icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- juice of 1/2 lime
Instructions
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In the bowl of your stand mixer add the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast, and stir to combine.
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In a microwave-safe bowl combine the water, milk, and 2 Tablespoons of coconut oil, (I used vegetable oil) heat for 1 minute over high power.
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Using the dough hook, gradually add the liquid mixture to the flour mixture, add the egg, and knead over medium/low speed for 4-5 minutes; the dough will be sticky.
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Place the dough on a clean surface and cover with plastic wrap, let sit for 10 minutes.
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In a saucepan over medium heat cook the cherries, corn starch, 1 tsp of sugar, lime zest, and juice for 5-6 minutes, until darkened and soft.
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Remove from the heat and let cool.
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Preheat your oven to 200º F and prepare a rectangular baking dish with cooking spray.
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Roll the dough out into a large rectangle (a little extra flour will keep it from sticking to your counter).
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Stir the 1/3 c sugar into the cooled cherry mixture.
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Spread 2 Tbs of coconut oil (I used butter) over the dough and top with the cherry mixture.
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Starting with the long side roll the dough towards you and pinch the seam to seal.
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Slice the log in half and then slice each half into six equal pieces.
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Place the rolls into the baking pan, cover with foil, turn the oven off, and place the rolls inside to rise for 45 minutes – 1 hour.
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After the rolls have risen, remove them from the oven and set the foil aside.
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Preheat your oven to 350º F and bake for 25 minutes, until golden on top.
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Remove the rolls from the oven, and let cool for 5-10 minutes.
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In a bowl stir together the powdered sugar and lime juice to form an icing.
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Spread the icing over the rolls and serve.
Notes
Frozen tart cherries will work in place of the fresh, just make sure to drain any excess liquid.
Nutrition
This recipe was originally posted on August 10, 2014. It was adapted from It Bakes Me Happy. It has been updated to improve user experience and reshared on February 20, 2024.