There is something truly magical about these Hot Cross Cinnamon Rolls Recipe that brings a warm, cozy feeling to any morning or special occasion. With the perfect balance of fluffy dough, fragrant spices, and sweet, tangy glazes, these rolls are an irresistible treat loaded with bursts of orange zest, plump raisins, and cranberries. This recipe combines traditional hot cross bun flavors with the delightfully soft texture of cinnamon rolls, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser you’ll fall in love with again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white rectangular dish holds nine cinnamon rolls arranged in a 3 by 3 grid, with one roll missing from the top right corner, showing some empty space and light brown residue on the side of the dish. Each cinnamon roll has a golden-brown surface with swirled layers of soft dough and darker cinnamon filling. The rolls are topped with a creamy white glaze, spread unevenly, with additional thicker lines of white icing creating a grid pattern over the cinnamon rolls. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with a white cloth or napkin partially visible on the top right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started on your Hot Cross Cinnamon Rolls Recipe requires just a few simple ingredients, but each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and the perfect texture. From fragrant spices to luscious fruit additions, every item on this list is essential for that authentic taste and look.

4 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for soft and airy rolls, providing structure and chewiness.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds mild sweetness to balance the spices and fruits.
2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (1 package): The magic that helps your dough rise beautifully fluffy.
1 1/4 teaspoons salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
1/8 teaspoon allspice: A warm spice that brings cozy depth to the dough.
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg: Adds a nutty, slightly sweet spice that complements cinnamon perfectly.
1 cup milk: Helps create that tender, rich dough texture.
4 tablespoons butter: Melts into the dough for a soft crumb and buttery flavor.
2 eggs: Adds richness and helps bind the dough.
1 tablespoon orange zest: Gives a fresh, vibrant citrus note that brightens everything.
1/2 cup raisins: Juicy bursts of sweetness tucked inside each roll.
1/2 cup dried cranberries (or currants or extra raisins): Adds tartness that contrasts beautifully with the sugary filling.
1/2 cup softened butter: For the cinnamon sugar filling—key to that luscious swirl.
2/3 cup brown sugar: Gives the filling its rich caramel flavor.
1 tablespoon cinnamon: The classic spice that defines cinnamon rolls.
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (divided): For the sweet glaze and signature crosses on top.
1/4 cup orange juice (more as needed): Adds citrus brightness to the icing and helps achieve the right glaze consistency.
3/4 teaspoon vanilla (divided): Enhances sweetness and rounds out the flavors.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Hot Cross Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Make the Dough

Start by whisking together all the dry ingredients—flour, sugar, yeast, salt, allspice, and nutmeg—in a large mixing bowl or the bowl of your stand mixer. Meanwhile, warm the milk and melt the butter together until they reach just about 110°-115°F; this warm temperature is perfect for waking up the yeast without killing it. Add this mixture along with the eggs into the dry ingredients, then mix until everything comes together with no lumps. Using a dough hook, knead on medium speed for 3 to 4 minutes until the dough feels smooth and a bit sticky. If you’re kneading by hand, prepare for a little workout and knead for about 10 minutes on a floured surface. Finally, fold in the orange zest, raisins, and cranberries, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 2: First Rise

Place your dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and let it proof in a warm place for 30 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it doubles in size, and that fluffy feeling is exactly what you want before shaping the rolls.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling and Assemble

While the dough is happily rising, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon into a luscious cinnamon paste. Then, turn out your dough onto a generously floured surface and roll it out into a long rectangle about 20 by 14 inches. Spread the cinnamon butter evenly from edge to edge using an offset spatula for an even swirl of sweet goodness in every bite.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

Starting from the long edge closest to you, roll the dough tightly into a log, making sure to pinch the seam to seal it well. Using a serrated knife, gently cut it into 12 equal rolls. Place these rolls in a greased 13×9-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart and slightly offset so they have room to puff up. Cover with plastic wrap again, and let them proof in a warm spot for another 20 to 30 minutes until noticeably puffed.

Step 5: Bake and Ice

Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the rolls for 22 to 28 minutes. Start checking around 20 minutes to prevent overbaking; the rolls should be golden brown and a toothpick inserted should come out clean (some cinnamon bits are expected!). Once baked, let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Mix 1 cup powdered sugar, 1/4 cup orange juice, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla in a bowl to create the smooth glaze, then spread it over the warm rolls so it melts into every crevice. Allow the rolls to cool completely before moving on to the final decorative step.

Step 6: Add the Signature Crosses

In the same bowl, whisk together the remaining powdered sugar, orange juice, and vanilla until smooth. Transfer this icing to a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off, then pipe cross shapes on top of each roll for that classic Hot Cross Cinnamon Rolls Recipe finish.

How to Serve Hot Cross Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

A single cinnamon roll sits on a white speckled round plate, showing three visible layers: the light golden brown outer dough with a soft, fluffy texture, a middle layer with swirls of dark brown cinnamon, and the top layer of thick, white icing drizzled in a crisscross pattern. The cinnamon roll is partially torn at the bottom, revealing a chewy interior with small bits of red fruit. In the background, more cinnamon rolls with white icing are placed in a white square baking dish against a white marbled surface, with a soft white cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your Hot Cross Cinnamon Rolls Recipe by topping with a sprinkle of finely grated orange zest or a few extra raisins or candied orange peel pieces for a pop of color and texture. A light dusting of additional cinnamon or a drizzle of melted butter before serving can elevate the experience even more.

Side Dishes

Pair these rolls with a comforting cup of spiced chai, rich coffee, or freshly squeezed orange juice to complement the citrus notes. For brunch spreads, fresh berries or a simple fruit salad can add brightness and balance to the sweetness of the rolls.

Creative Ways to Present

Make your Hot Cross Cinnamon Rolls Recipe extra special by serving them on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment paper, or in individual mini cast iron skillets for a charming single-serve presentation. You can also gift them beautifully wrapped in a clear box tied with pastel ribbons for an inviting and thoughtful homemade present.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Hot Cross Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their softness. Avoid refrigeration as it can dry them out.

Freezing

You can freeze the rolls after baking and icing by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and then storing in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature for best results.

Reheating

Reheat your rolls in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 325°F for 10 minutes covered loosely with foil. This will revive their softness and melt the icing slightly, just like fresh from the oven.

FAQs

Can I use regular yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can use regular active dry yeast, but make sure to proof it in warm milk with a pinch of sugar before mixing with the dry ingredients to activate it properly.

What can I substitute for raisins and cranberries?

If you’re not a fan of raisins or cranberries, chopped dried apricots, cherries, or currants work wonderfully and keep the fruity balance of the rolls.

Can I make this dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! After the first rise, you can refrigerate the dough overnight, then shape and bake the rolls the next day for fresh-baked flavor with more convenience.

How do I get soft and fluffy rolls?

The key is proper kneading to develop gluten, using warm liquid for activating yeast, and allowing adequate proofing so the dough doubles in size before baking.

What if I don’t have orange juice or zest?

You can substitute with lemon juice and zest, or even vanilla alone, but the rolls won’t have quite the same bright citrus note that makes this Hot Cross Cinnamon Rolls Recipe so special.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a show-stopping cinnamon roll that bursts with festive flavors and irresistible charm, this Hot Cross Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is calling your name. Share it with friends and family or keep it as your secret weapon to brighten any morning. Once you try these fragrant, tender rolls dotted with juicy fruit and topped with delicate crosses, they just might become your new favorite tradition.