There’s something magical about the combination of sweet peaches and warm cinnamon, isn’t there? Our Peach Cinnamon Rolls bring together the comforting flavors of a classic cinnamon roll with the juicy sweetness of ripe peaches. It’s the kind of treat that feels like a warm hug on a cozy morning or a delightful dessert to share with loved ones.
Peach Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Ingredients
Here is what we need to make these fluffy, gooey Peach Cinnamon Rolls:
- Dough:
- 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- ½ cup whole milk warmed to 110°F
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
- 2 large eggs at room temperature
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Filling:
- 1 ½ cups diced peaches (fresh or canned, drained well)
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
- Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, and melted butter. Add the yeast mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling
- In a medium bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon until combined.
- Dice the peaches into small pieces, ensuring they’re lightly patted dry if using canned peaches.
3. Assemble the Rolls
- Roll the dough into a large rectangle (approx. 15×12 inches) on a floured surface.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the butter.
- Evenly distribute the diced peaches on top.
- Tightly roll the dough from the long side, creating a spiral. Pinch the ends to seal.
4. Slice and Proof
- Using a sharp knife, cut the roll into 12 equal slices (about 1.5 inches thick).
- Arrange rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving slight space between them.
- Cover and let rise for 30-40 minutes until they puff up.
5. Bake the Rolls
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before glazing.
6. Make the Glaze
- Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust consistency with more milk if needed.
- Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm Peach Cinnamon Rolls.
Ingredients
To make our irresistibly soft and gooey Peach Cinnamon Rolls, we’ll need the following ingredients. We’ve divided them into categories for easy reference:
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup whole milk (warmed to 110°F)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- 2 cups fresh peaches (peeled and diced)
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons whole milk (adjust consistency as needed)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of ground cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)
Tip: Fresh peaches are recommended for the filling, but canned or frozen peaches (thawed and drained) can work as substitutes if fresh ones aren’t available.
Quick Reference Table:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 3 ½ cups | Extra for dusting |
| Granulated sugar | ¼ cup | For the dough |
| Active dry yeast | 2 ¼ teaspoons | 1 packet |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Balances flavor |
| Whole milk | ¾ cup + 2–3 tbsp | Warm for dough; adjust for glaze |
| Unsalted butter | ¼ cup (dough), ¼ cup (filling) | Melted and softened, respectively |
| Large egg | 1 | Room temperature helps incorporate well |
| Vanilla extract | 1 ½ teaspoons | Split between dough and glaze |
| Light brown sugar | ½ cup | For the filling |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 teaspoons + pinch | Add more if desired for spiciness |
| Fresh peaches | 2 cups | Peeled, diced |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup | For the glaze |
Tools And Equipment
To make these delightful Peach Cinnamon Rolls, having the right tools and equipment makes the process seamless. Here’s a quick list of essential items you’ll need, along with their purpose:
Essential Tools
- Large Mixing Bowls: For mixing the dough and other ingredients.
- Whisk or Hand Mixer: To combine wet and dry ingredients efficiently.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients like flour, sugar, and spices.
- Stand Mixer with Dough Hook Attachment: Ideal for kneading the dough to achieve a soft and elastic texture. If unavailable, kneading by hand works too.
- Rolling Pin: For rolling out the dough evenly into a perfect rectangular shape.
- Sharp Knife or Dough Cutter: To slice the rolled dough into even cinnamon rolls.
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: To bake the rolls and allow them to puff up beautifully.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: To prevent sticking and ensure easy clean-up.
- Small Saucepan: For warming the milk and preparing ingredients that require gentle heating.
- Pastry Brush: Useful for spreading melted butter onto the rolled-out dough.
Supporting Items (Nice to Have)
- Digital Thermometer: Helps ensure the milk is warmed to the perfect temperature (about 110°F) for activating the yeast properly.
- Sifter: To sift powdered sugar for the glaze, avoiding lumps for a smooth finish.
- Cooling Rack: Allows the rolls to cool down evenly once baked.
- Small Spatula or Offset Spreader: For spreading glaze thoroughly over the rolls.
Quick Reference Table
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowls | Mixing and combining ingredients. |
| Whisk or Hand Mixer | Blending wet and dry ingredients smoothly. |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Precise measurement of ingredients. |
| Stand Mixer | Quick and efficient dough kneading. |
| Rolling Pin | Rolling the dough evenly. |
| Sharp Knife or Cutter | Cutting uniform cinnamon roll slices. |
| 9×13-inch Baking Dish | Baking the rolls to golden perfection. |
| Parchment Paper | Preventing rolls from sticking during baking. |
| Pastry Brush | Spreading butter over the dough. |
| Cooling Rack | Ensuring rolls cool evenly after baking. |
Directions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create soft, gooey, and flavorful Peach Cinnamon Rolls. Each step ensures the perfect combination of warm cinnamon and sweet, juicy peaches in every bite.
Prep The Dough
- In a small bowl, combine 1 cup warm whole milk (110°F, use a thermometer for accuracy), 2 teaspoons active dry yeast, and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, mix 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and the yeast mixture.
- Add 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 4 tablespoons softened unsalted butter. Mix on medium speed with a dough hook for 6-8 minutes, or knead by hand for 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 ½ hours or until doubled in size.
Make The Peach Filling
- Peel and dice 2 cups fresh peaches into small, bite-sized pieces (about 1/4-inch cubes).
- In a small saucepan, combine the peaches, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peaches have softened slightly and released their juices.
- In a separate small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water to create a slurry. Add this to the peaches and stir for 1-2 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and let the peach filling cool completely, then refrigerate it until ready to use.
Prepare The Cinnamon Filling
- In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup light brown sugar, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 cup softened unsalted butter. Mix until smooth and spreadable.
Roll And Assemble The Cinnamon Rolls
- Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 16×12-inch rectangle (about 1/4-inch thickness). Use a rolling pin to ensure even thickness.
- Spread the prepared cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
- Evenly distribute the cooled peach filling over the cinnamon layer. Be careful not to overfill to avoid spills while rolling.
- Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it closed.
- Use a sharp knife or dough cutter to slice the log into 12 equal rolls. Arrange them cut-side up in a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking dish, spaced evenly.
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let the rolls rise for another 30-40 minutes, or until puffy.
| Step | Tip |
|---|---|
| Roll out dough | Ensure uniform thickness for even baking. |
| Spread filling | Leave a small border to prevent leakage during rolling. |
| Cut into rolls | Use a sharp knife to avoid squishing the dough. |
| Arrange in baking dish | Leave space between rolls for room to expand during second rise. |
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bake fluffy Peach Cinnamon Rolls and achieve that perfect balance of sweet peaches and warm cinnamon. From baking to glazing, we’ll guide you through the essential techniques for indulgent, homemade rolls.
Baking The Peach Cinnamon Rolls
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures the rolls bake evenly and release easily.
- Prepare the rolls for baking: After the second rise, check that the rolls are slightly puffed and touching each other. This indicates they are ready to bake.
- Bake: Place the assembled rolls in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are a beautiful golden brown. Rotate the pan halfway through if necessary for even baking.
- Check the doneness: To ensure the rolls are fully baked, test the center rolls with a soft press. They should feel firm but not hard. Alternatively, a quick-check thermometer should read 190°F (88°C) at the center.
- Cool the rolls: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the rolls cool in the pan on a cooling rack for about 10 minutes before applying the glaze. This cooling step prevents the glaze from completely melting off.
Preparing The Icing
- Combine ingredients: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon for extra warmth.
- Adjust consistency: If the icing feels too thick, gradually add milk—½ teaspoon at a time—until it reaches a pourable consistency. For thicker icing, sift in a touch more powdered sugar.
- Taste test: Spoon a tiny amount to test the sweetness. Adjust with more vanilla or cinnamon for flavor depth.
Glazing The Rolls
- Drizzle the icing: Using a small spoon or pastry brush, drizzle or spread the prepared icing over the rolls. Focus on covering the tops generously for that irresistible sticky glaze effect.
- Serve warm: These rolls are best enjoyed when still warm. The icing slightly melts into the rolls, adding a silky, rich texture to each bite.
- Storage tip: If not serving immediately, let the rolls cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat gently and glaze right before serving.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Peach Cinnamon Rolls in advance is an excellent way to save time while still enjoying their fresh, gooey goodness. Whether you’re planning for a busy morning or entertaining guests, these make-ahead tips will make the process seamless:
For Preparing the Dough Ahead of Time
- Mix and knead the dough as directed in the recipe but do not allow the first rise to occur.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate the dough for up to 8-12 hours. The slower rise in the refrigerator enhances the flavor.
- When you’re ready to proceed, remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30-45 minutes or until slightly puffy before rolling it out.
Assembling and Refrigerating the Rolls
- Once the rolls are assembled and placed in the baking dish (before the second rise), cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
- Store the unbaked rolls in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- When ready to bake, take the rolls out of the refrigerator and let them warm at room temperature for 1-2 hours, allowing them to rise until puffed.
Freezing Instructions (Fully Assembled Rolls)
- After assembling the rolls, arrange them in a baking dish lined with parchment paper.
- Flash freeze the unbaked rolls on a baking sheet for about 1-2 hours, until firm.
- Transfer the frozen rolls to an airtight container or zip-top freezer bag, ensuring minimal air exposure, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To bake, thaw the rolls in the refrigerator overnight, then proceed with the second rise at room temperature as described above.
Freezing Instructions (After Baking)
- Allow the baked rolls to cool completely without adding the glaze.
- Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap or store them together in a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To serve, thaw the rolls at room temperature, then warm them in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes. Add freshly made glaze before serving for that just-baked appeal.
Quick Reference Timing Table
| Step | Refrigeration Time | Freezer Storage |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated Dough (First Rise) | 8-12 hours | Not recommended |
| Assembled Rolls (Unbaked) | Up to 24 hours | Up to 3 months (freeze first) |
| Fully Baked Rolls | Not applicable | Up to 3 months |
These make-ahead options ensure that your Peach Cinnamon Rolls are fresh and flavorful, no matter how busy your schedule is.
Tips For Perfect Peach Cinnamon Rolls
Achieving the perfect Peach Cinnamon Rolls requires attention to detail at every step. Follow these expert tips to ensure your rolls turn out irresistibly soft, gooey, and delicious every time.
1. Use Fresh or Properly Prepared Peaches
Fresh peaches deliver the best flavor. If fresh peaches are unavailable, canned or frozen peaches work wonderfully too. Just be sure to:
- Drain canned peaches thoroughly.
- Thaw frozen peaches completely and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
Doing this prevents a soggy filling and ensures a perfect bake.
2. Monitor Dough Consistency
The dough should be soft, pliable, and slightly sticky but not too wet. Add flour gradually when kneading if the dough feels too wet. On the other hand, avoid adding excess flour, as this can make the rolls dense.
“The perfect dough consistency is critical for soft, fluffy rolls!”
3. Roll Dough Evenly
Roll the dough out into a rectangle approximately 1/4 inch thick to ensure even baking. If the dough is too thick, the rolls may not cook through. Use a rolling pin for uniform thickness and neat edges.
4. Layer the Filling Generously
For maximum flavor, spread a thick layer of the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly across the dough. Avoid spreading too close to the edges to prevent leakage while rolling. When adding the peach filling, distribute it evenly for consistent fruity bursts in every bite.
5. Cut Rolls Cleanly
Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the rolled dough into even pieces. Cutting the dough into uneven rolls can lead to inconsistent baking. Aim for about 1.5-inch thick slices, ensuring they bake evenly.
Roll Cutting Reference Table
| Slice Thickness | Approx. Pieces | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 inch | 14-16 | Smaller, but cooks faster |
| 1.5 inches | 12 | Balanced texture & size |
6. Allow Adequate Rising Time
For pillowy rolls, the dough must rise adequately both before and after assembly:
- First rise: Wait until the dough doubles in size. This can take 1-1.5 hours depending on room temperature.
- Second rise (after assembling the rolls): Let the rolls rise in the baking dish until they puff up, about 30-40 minutes.
7. Bake at the Right Temperature
Bake the rolls at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, ensuring they are golden brown. Avoid an overly high oven temperature, as this can result in undercooked centers and overbrowned exteriors.
“Always rotate your baking dish halfway through to achieve even baking.”
8. Cool Before Glazing
Let the rolls cool for about 10 minutes after baking. This step is crucial so that the glaze slightly melts for a perfect sticky texture without running off completely.
9. Customize Your Glaze
For a unique twist, experiment with different glaze flavors. Add a splash of almond extract, a pinch of nutmeg, or even swap the milk for peach juice to enhance the fruity flavor of the rolls.
10. Store Rolls Properly
If you have leftovers (though they’ll disappear fast!), store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Storage Reference Table
| Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | Microwave for 10-15 seconds per roll |
| Refrigerated | Up to 5 days | Reheat in oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes |
| Frozen (Unbaked Rolls) | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight before baking |
| Frozen (Baked Rolls) | Up to 3 months | Warm in the oven for 10-12 minutes |
By keeping these tips in mind, we can achieve perfect Peach Cinnamon Rolls every time, ensuring their tender texture and delightful flavor steal the spotlight.
Conclusion
Peach Cinnamon Rolls bring together the perfect balance of sweetness and spice in a way that’s both comforting and irresistible. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, these rolls are a delightful addition to any occasion. With the right tools, ingredients, and tips, creating this homemade treat is as enjoyable as savoring it. Let’s roll up our sleeves and make every bite unforgettable!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Peach Cinnamon Rolls?
Peach Cinnamon Rolls are a soft, fluffy pastry filled with sweet peaches and warm cinnamon, topped with a smooth glaze. They make a comforting treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Can I use canned or frozen peaches instead of fresh?
Yes, canned or frozen peaches can be used as substitutes for fresh peaches. Just ensure they are properly drained and thawed before use to avoid excess moisture.
What tools do I need to make Peach Cinnamon Rolls?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, a whisk, measuring cups, a stand mixer with a dough hook, a rolling pin, a baking dish, and parchment paper. Additional tools like a thermometer or cooling rack can enhance the baking process.
How do I prepare the peach filling?
Cook diced peaches with sugar and lemon juice, and thicken the mixture with a cornstarch slurry. This creates a sweet, slightly sticky filling perfect for the rolls.
How long should the dough rise?
The dough should rise until it doubles in size, which typically takes about 1-2 hours, depending on room temperature.
What’s the best way to check if the rolls are baked?
The rolls are ready when they are golden brown and have an internal temperature of around 190°F (88°C). You can also gently press them—the tops should spring back.
How do I make the glaze?
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and an optional pinch of cinnamon. Drizzle the glaze over warm rolls for the best texture and flavor.
Can I make the rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for 8-12 hours or assemble the rolls and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Freezing instructions are also provided for longer storage.
How do I store leftover Peach Cinnamon Rolls?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a freshly baked taste.
Can Peach Cinnamon Rolls be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked rolls for up to three months. When ready to bake, allow them to thaw and rise before baking. Baked rolls can also be frozen and reheated as needed.
Are there any tips for perfect Peach Cinnamon Rolls?
Ensure the dough is well-kneaded, roll it evenly, layer the filling generously, and allow enough rising time. Follow the baking and glazing instructions for soft, gooey results.