Can you resist sweet cherry pie filling and cinnamon in a easy homemade treat? Try these quick crock pot cinnamon rolls made with cherry pie filling and topped with a sweet glaze, perfect for a family favorite weeknight dinner, Save for later

Cherry Pie Cinnamon Rolls in the Crock Pot

Introduction

Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of cherry pie and cinnamon rolls wafting from your kitchen, all without the hassle of slaving away in front of the oven. This ingenious recipe for Cherry Pie Cinnamon Rolls in the Crock Pot combines the best of both worlds, bringing you a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. By utilizing everyday ingredients and the convenience of a crock pot, you can create a treat that’s not only a masterpiece of flavor but also a testament to culinary creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe promises to impress with its perfect balance of cherry filling, cinnamon spice, and soft, fluffy dough, all made with minimal effort.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes a perfect chord between the sweetness of cherries and the warmth of cinnamon, using ingredients that are readily available in most supermarkets.
Ease of preparation: The use of a crock pot simplifies the cooking process, allowing for a hands-off approach that’s perfect for busy days or when you want to prepare a dessert ahead of time.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the end result is a dessert that looks and tastes like it was made in a professional bakery, sure to impress family and friends.

Key Ingredients

The magic of these Cherry Pie Cinnamon Rolls lies in their ingredients. You’ll need a package of cinnamon roll dough (homemade or store-bought, whichever suits your preference), a can of cherry pie filling, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a bit of butter to grease your crock pot. For those looking for substitutions, consider using other types of fruit fillings like blueberry or raspberry for a different twist, or opt for a homemade dough recipe if you’re feeling adventurous. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility and the ability to adapt it to your tastes and dietary needs.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. If using homemade dough, allow it time to rise according to your recipe. Otherwise, thaw your store-bought dough according to the package instructions. Grease the inside of your crock pot with butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Open your package of cinnamon roll dough and cut it into 1-inch thick rounds or simply use the pre-cut rolls if available. Place a spoonful of cherry pie filling onto the center of each dough piece, leaving a small border around the edges. Roll each piece into a tight cylinder and place them into the prepared crock pot, leaving a little space between each roll to allow for expansion.
Step 3: In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the rolls in the crock pot. If desired, drizzle with a bit of melted butter for extra flavor and moisture.
Step 4: Cook the rolls in the crock pot on low for about 2-3 hours or on high for 1-2 hours. The rolls are done when they’re cooked through and lightly browned on the bottom. Remove them from the crock pot and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. You can glaze them with a simple powdered sugar glaze if you prefer a sweeter treat.

Handy Tips

Avoid overfilling the crock pot, as the dough will expand during cooking. Leaving enough space ensures that the rolls cook evenly and don’t stick together.
For an extra crispy top, you can place the cooked rolls under the broiler for a minute or two after cooking. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Consider using different spices like nutmeg or cardamom to give your rolls a unique flavor profile.

Heat Control

The beauty of using a crock pot is the ease of heat control. Cooking on low for a longer period ensures that the rolls are cooked through without drying out, while cooking on high speeds up the process but requires closer monitoring to prevent overcooking. The ideal temperature is the default setting of your crock pot, and the timing will depend on your preference for the rolls’ texture and the filling’s warmth.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in these Cherry Pie Cinnamon Rolls comes from the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture sprinkled on top. To achieve the perfect balance between crunch and softness, make sure not to overmix the sugar and cinnamon, and sprinkle it evenly over the rolls before cooking. The bottom of the rolls, which are in contact with the crock pot, will also develop a lovely crustiness after cooking.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

For easier cleanup, line your crock pot with parchment paper or aluminum foil before adding the rolls. This trick also helps in removing the cooked rolls without them breaking apart.
To enhance the cherry flavor, you can add a few drops of cherry extract or a handful of dried cherries to the dough or the filling before cooking.
Experiment with different types of sugar, like turbinado or muscovado, to add depth to the flavor of your rolls.

Storage Tips

Leftover rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the cooled rolls in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container.
To reheat, simply microwave a roll for 20-30 seconds or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for a few minutes.
Consider using glass containers for storing, as they preserve the freshness and flavor of the rolls better than plastic containers.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These Cherry Pie Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for gifting, especially during holidays or as a thoughtful gesture. Package them in decorative jars or tin containers, wrapped in a ribbon or twine, and accompanied by a handwritten note or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. For a more rustic look, use parchment paper or a paper bag and tie it with a string. Whatever packaging you choose, the delicious aroma and taste of these rolls are sure to bring a smile to the recipient’s face.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Different spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger to the dough or the sugar mixture for a unique twist.
🌟 Creative toppings: Experiment with different toppings like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to add texture and flavor.
🌟 Ingredient swaps: Substitute the cherry pie filling with other fruit fillings like blueberry, raspberry, or apple to create different flavor profiles.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If your rolls turn out too dense, it might be due to overmixing the dough. Try to mix the ingredients just until they come together, and let the dough rest for a while before rolling it out.
Ingredient replacements: If you’re out of a particular ingredient, don’t hesitate to substitute it with something similar. For example, you can use honey instead of brown sugar or almond extract instead of vanilla.
Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on your rolls during the cooking time. If they’re undercooked, they might look pale and feel soft to the touch. If they’re overcooked, they might be too dark and dry. Adjust the cooking time as needed to achieve the perfect texture and color.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the cooked rolls for up to 2 months. Simply place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container and thaw when needed.
Is it gluten-free? This recipe uses traditional cinnamon roll dough, which contains gluten. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by substituting the dough with a gluten-free alternative.
Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! Simply double all the ingredients and adjust the cooking time as needed. Keep in mind that cooking time might be longer for a larger batch.

Conclusion

With this recipe for Cherry Pie Cinnamon Rolls in the Crock Pot, you’re not just making a dessert; you’re creating an experience. The combination of cherry and cinnamon, the ease of preparation, and the joy of sharing something homemade with loved ones make this recipe a true gem. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own, and remember, the most important ingredient in any recipe is love. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the warmth and comfort that these delicious rolls bring to your table.

Cherry Cinnamon Rolls Crock Pot Dessert