Cranberry Jalapeño Bread Rolls Recipe

If you have a soft spot for warm, comforting bread with an exciting twist, these Cranberry Jalapeño Bread Rolls will absolutely steal your heart. Imagine tender, glossy rolls bursting with a unique blend of sweet tart cranberries and a mild, smoky jalapeño kick—it’s an irresistible combo that brightens up your table and your taste buds. These rolls bring together simple ingredients and a fabulous spread, transforming everyday bread into a memorable experience you’ll want to share with family and friends over and over again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Cranberry Jalapeño Bread Rolls lies in their straightforward ingredients, each handpicked to deliver perfect flavor, texture, and color. From rich milk and creamy butter that create a tender crumb, to the zingy cranberry and jalapeño spread that adds vibrant personality, every item is essential in crafting these delightful rolls.

• Whole milk (1 cup): Adds moisture and richness for tender dough.
• Instant yeast (2 teaspoons): Gives the rolls their light, airy rise.
• Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon): Feeds the yeast and brings a hint of sweetness.
• Egg (1): Adds structure, color, and a lovely tender crumb.
• Unsalted butter, room temperature (¼ cup): Creates softness and a tender texture throughout.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances flavors and enhances the dough’s depth.
• All-purpose flour (3 ⅓ cups, plus extra): The backbone of the dough, providing structure.
• La Terra Fina Cranberry & Jalapeño Dip & Spread (1 10-oz container): The star ingredient, infusing every bite with a perfect sweet-heat punch.
• Panko bread crumbs (1 cup): Adds a delightful crunchy topping when mixed with cheese.
• Grated parmesan cheese (½ cup): Gives a savory, nutty crunch topping that complements the rolls perfectly.

How to Make Cranberry Jalapeño Bread Rolls

Step 1: Activate Your Yeast

Start by warming up your milk to just lukewarm, then stir in the instant yeast and sugar. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it bubbles and shows signs of life—this is where the magic begins and ensures your rolls get that perfect, fluffy texture.

Step 2: Combine and Knead the Dough

Next, add the egg, salt, and all of your flour to the stand mixer bowl with the yeast mixture. Mix on medium speed until the dough starts to pull together, then toss in the butter. Keep that mixer running for a good 3 minutes to knead the dough until it becomes smooth and glossy. Don’t be shy to add a bit more flour if the dough sticks too much—it should feel soft, not sticky.

Step 3: First Rise

Transfer your beautiful dough ball into a greased bowl and cover it with a towel. Let it rest and rise for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll notice it puff up slightly—this rest period kickstarts the yeast for that perfect, airy crumb.

Step 4: Prepare Baking Dish and Topping

While the dough takes its nap, preheat your oven to 350℉ and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan. In a small bowl, whisk together the panko bread crumbs and parmesan cheese, which will add a fabulous crunchy, cheesy topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft rolls.

Step 5: Roll Out and Add the Spread

Turn the risen dough onto a lightly floured surface, sprinkle some flour on top, and roll it into a 9×14-inch rectangle. Spread the entire surface generously with the La Terra Fina Cranberry & Jalapeño Dip & Spread—this savory and fruity spread gives the rolls their distinctive, mouthwatering flavor.

Step 6: Shape and Slice the Rolls

Carefully roll the dough into a tight log starting from the shorter side, then slice it into nine equal rolls. The swirl inside each roll will be studded with that gorgeous cranberry jalapeño shine.

Step 7: Second Rise and Bake

Place the rolls into the greased baking dish, leaving a tiny bit of space between each one. Sprinkle the panko-parmesan mixture over the top, cover with a towel again, and let them rise for another 15 to 20 minutes. When they’re puffed up and springy to the touch, bake for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown and beautifully fragrant.

Step 8: Final Touches

Once out of the oven, add little dollops of the Cranberry & Jalapeño Dip & Spread on top for an extra burst of flavor and a cute, rustic presentation. Serve these rolls warm for the perfect combination of cozy bread and lively flavor.

How to Serve Cranberry Jalapeño Bread Rolls

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley add a bright pop of green and freshness that contrast wonderfully with the spicy, fruity notes in Cranberry Jalapeño Bread Rolls. A light drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the top can also enhance their flavor profile and add extra layers of complexity.

Side Dishes

These rolls flourish when paired with soups or stews—think hearty butternut squash soup, creamy tomato bisque, or even a roasted vegetable stew. The rolls carry bold flavors that complement such dishes without overpowering them, making for a satisfying, well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Cranberry Jalapeño Bread Rolls into a centerpiece! Arrange them on a wooden board surrounded by small bowls of complementary dips like cream cheese, herb butter, or extra cranberry jalapeño spread. You can also serve them sliced in half with melted cheese and a slice of roasted turkey or ham for a delightful, homemade slider experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover rolls in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap to keep them soft and fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. If you want them to last a bit longer without sacrificing the moist crumb, refrigeration is a good option but always warm them up before serving.

Freezing

Cranberry Jalapeño Bread Rolls freeze beautifully! Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to 2 months—perfect for prepping ahead and enjoying whenever the craving hits.

Reheating

To reheat, unwrap the rolls and warm them in a 350℉ oven for about 10 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp on the outside. You can also microwave them briefly, but the oven method keeps that lovely texture intact. Adding a small dab of extra cranberry jalapeño spread on top right after reheating brings back that freshly baked magic.

FAQs

Can I use a different spread instead of La Terra Fina Cranberry & Jalapeño?

Absolutely! While the specific flavor balance of cranberry and jalapeño is what makes these rolls special, you can experiment with other sweet and spicy spreads. Just be mindful that the sweetness and heat level might change the final taste.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough should roughly double in size and look puffy. A great test is to gently press your finger into the dough—if the indentation slowly springs back, it’s ready for the next step.

Can I make these rolls without a stand mixer?

Yes! You can mix and knead the dough by hand. It will take a bit more work to develop the gluten, but it’s totally doable. Just knead on a floured surface for about 8 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Are these bread rolls spicy?

They have a mild to medium spicy kick from the jalapeño, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the cranberries. It’s a pleasant warmth that most people enjoy, but if you prefer it milder, you can reduce the amount of jalapeño dip you spread on the dough.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

You can adapt this recipe by swapping milk for plant-based milk, butter for a vegan alternative, and omitting the egg or using a flax egg substitute. Keep in mind the texture might be slightly different but still delicious.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely believe these Cranberry Jalapeño Bread Rolls will become a cherished addition to your baking repertoire. They strike that perfect balance of sweet and spicy, soft and crunchy, simple and special. Whether you’re serving them for a holiday gathering or a casual family dinner, they bring warmth, love, and loads of flavor to the table. Don’t wait to try baking these—it’s one of those recipes that make your kitchen smell heavenly and your guests ask for seconds!

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