🍑 Peach Pie Cinnamon Rolls: A Southern Twist on a Breakfast Classic
Imagine biting into a warm, gooey cinnamon roll that tastes like a slice of fresh peach pie. The tender, buttery dough, the caramelized cinnamon sugar, and the juicy peach filling all come together in perfect harmony — topped with a silky cream cheese glaze that melts right into every swirl. 🤤
These Peach Pie Cinnamon Rolls are a Southern-inspired masterpiece that blends two beloved desserts — the homestyle comfort of peach pie and the indulgence of homemade cinnamon rolls. Whether you’re baking for brunch, a summer breakfast, or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe delivers sweet perfection every time. 🍑🥧
🌼 The Story Behind the Recipe
Down South, peaches aren’t just a fruit — they’re a tradition. From cobblers to pies, their juicy sweetness defines summertime comfort. Chef Ree Drummond says it best: “If there’s one thing that makes a kitchen smell like home, it’s cinnamon rolls in the oven — and adding peaches takes it to a whole new level.”
This recipe takes that classic Southern charm and gives it a bakery-quality upgrade. The secret? A rich dough made with warm milk and butter, filled with cinnamon-spiced peaches, and crowned with a dreamy cream cheese glaze. Each bite is pure sunshine on a plate. ☀️
🥣 Ingredients You’ll Need
🍞 For the Dough
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F / 45°C)
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more if needed)
🍑 For the Peach Pie Filling
- 2 cups fresh or canned peaches, diced (drained if canned)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
🌿 For the Cinnamon-Sugar Filling
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
🍶 For the Cream Cheese Glaze
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)
🧁 Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes, until foamy. Stir in sugar, melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 to 1½ hours).
Step 2: Prepare the Peach Filling
While the dough rises, make the filling. In a small saucepan, combine diced peaches, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, vanilla, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring until thickened. Set aside to cool completely — this step ensures your rolls don’t get soggy later.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches) on a lightly floured surface.
Step 4: Add the Fillings
Spread softened butter evenly over the dough. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle over the butter. Finally, spoon the cooled peach filling evenly on top — spreading gently to cover the surface.
Step 5: Shape the Rolls
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into 12 equal rolls and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30–45 minutes until puffy.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. The peach filling should bubble slightly at the edges — that’s how you know they’re perfect! 🍑
Step 7: Make the Glaze
While the rolls cool slightly, whisk together cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth and pourable.
Step 8: Glaze & Serve
Drizzle the warm rolls generously with the cream cheese glaze. Serve immediately for the ultimate gooey, fruit-filled experience. 😍
👩🍳 Chef Tips & Professional Secrets
Chef Bobby Flay:
“Brush melted butter over the baked rolls right before glazing — it seals in moisture and adds that glossy, bakery-fresh finish.”
Ree Drummond (The Pioneer Woman):
“Use canned peaches in syrup if fresh peaches aren’t in season — just remember to drain them well and reduce the sugar slightly.”
Gordon Ramsay:
“A pinch of sea salt in your glaze enhances sweetness and balances flavor. It’s all about contrast.”
🥗 Nutrition & Health Benefits
While these peach pie cinnamon rolls are pure comfort food, they also offer some nutritional perks — especially from those juicy peaches full of vitamins and antioxidants. Here’s a general overview:
Ingredient | Amount (per serving) | Health Benefit |
---|---|---|
Peaches | 60g | Rich in Vitamin C and fiber; supports healthy skin |
Flour | 100g | Provides carbohydrates for energy |
Butter | 20g | Source of healthy fats and flavor |
Cream Cheese | 15g | Calcium and protein for bone health |
Approximate Calories per roll: 320 kcal
💡 Healthier Alternatives:
- Swap half the flour for whole wheat for extra fiber.
- Use low-fat cream cheese and reduce glaze sugar by half.
- Try coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a lower-glycemic option.
🧊 Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Wrap rolls individually and freeze up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 10 minutes.
- Make Ahead: Assemble rolls the night before, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning!
⚠️ Food Safety Note:
Allow rolls to cool slightly before glazing to avoid melting the cream cheese mixture too much. Always refrigerate any leftovers that contain dairy-based glaze.
🔗 Related Recipes You’ll Love
If you loved these Peach Pie Cinnamon Rolls, you’ll definitely want to check out these other irresistible treats from Fresh Tones Hunger:
❓ 10 Frequently Asked Questions About Peach Pie Cinnamon Rolls
1. Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to drain them well to prevent sogginess. Reduce the added sugar slightly since canned peaches are already sweetened.
2. What’s the best flour to use?
All-purpose flour gives the rolls their soft, pillowy texture. Bread flour can be used for slightly chewier results.
3. Can I make these overnight?
Absolutely! Prepare the rolls and refrigerate before the second rise. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for 45 minutes, then bake as directed.
4. How do I prevent the rolls from being too dense?
Make sure your yeast is active and the dough isn’t too dry. The first rise should double in size before rolling out.
5. Can I add nuts or extra fruit?
Definitely! Chopped pecans, almonds, or extra diced peaches add great texture and flavor.
6. Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes! Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cream cheese for the glaze.
7. What can I use instead of cornstarch?
Arrowroot powder or flour works as a thickener if cornstarch isn’t available.
8. How long do they stay soft?
Stored properly, these rolls stay soft for up to 3 days. A quick reheat brings them back to that fresh-baked texture.
9. Can I skip the glaze?
Of course — they’re still delicious! Try brushing with honey or butter for a lighter topping.
10. How do I reheat without drying them out?
Microwave with a damp paper towel for 15 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F for 8–10 minutes.
💬 Final Thoughts: Sweet Comfort in Every Swirl
These Peach Pie Cinnamon Rolls are everything you love about Southern desserts — buttery, fruity, aromatic, and soul-satisfying. Whether served at brunch or as a cozy dessert, they’re guaranteed to make everyone at the table smile. ❤️
As Ina Garten puts it, “Life’s too short not to have something warm, homemade, and full of love.” And with these rolls, you’ll taste that love in every bite. 🥰
🍑 Whip up a batch this weekend and let your kitchen fill with the scent of peaches, cinnamon, and joy!