Introduction
There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. These delightful treats, with their soft, pillowy texture and a rich swirl of cinnamon and sugar, are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a warm breakfast, a sweet afternoon snack, or a cozy dessert, these easy homemade cinnamon rolls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s gather our ingredients and embark on this delicious journey together!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt, mixing until evenly distributed.
- In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk and melted butter until warm to the touch, but not boiling.
- Add the warm milk mixture to the bowl of dry ingredients, along with the eggs. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
- Slowly incorporate the remaining flour, kneading the dough until it becomes soft and slightly sticky.
- Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once risen, punch down the dough, then roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and ground cinnamon generously over the surface.
- Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log shape and slice it into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and cover them for another 30 minutes to rise.
- Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the rolls have puffed up, bake them for 20-25 minutes or until they are a beautiful golden brown.
- While the cinnamon rolls are baking, prepare the icing by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the creamy icing over them while they’re still warm, allowing it to seep into every delightful layer.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra touch, try adding chopped nuts or raisins into the filling for added texture and flavor.
- If you don’t have instant yeast, you can substitute it with active dry yeast, just remember to activate it in warm water first.
- These cinnamon rolls can be made ahead of time! Prepare them up to the second rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake them fresh the next morning!
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough helps to develop the gluten, resulting in a chewy yet tender roll. Be sure to flour your surface generously to prevent sticking. For the best results, let the dough rise in a warm environment, which can be achieved by placing it in an oven preheated to the lowest setting for a few minutes, then turned off.
FAQ
- Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls? Absolutely! After cutting them, place the rolls on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw and rise before baking.
- What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise? Ensure that your yeast is fresh and the environment is warm. If possible, make sure your milk isn’t too hot or too cold when added, as this can affect yeast activity.
Conclusion
There you have it! Warm, gooey, and simply irresistible cinnamon rolls that will make your kitchen feel like a cozy bakery. Perfect for lazy weekends or special celebrations, these homemade treats are bound to bring joy to your family and friends. Enjoy every luscious bite, and don’t forget to save some for later—if you can resist the temptation!