Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen. These delightful traditional yeast cinnamon rolls are soft, fluffy, and stuffed with a rich filling that will have your loved ones coming back for seconds. Topped with a creamy icing, they make the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or any time you crave a little warmth and sweetness. Get ready to indulge in this comforting recipe that will fill your home with joy!
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F to 115°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
- 2 tablespoons milk (for icing)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 60 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy—that’s when the magic begins!
- In a large bowl, combine granulated sugar, softened butter, and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and blend everything together well.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then gradually add in the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until it has doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
- Once risen, punch down the dough to release the air and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 16×24 inches).
- Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts if you’re using them.
- Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly and cut it into 12 equal pieces.
- Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish and let them rise again, covered with a cloth, for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown.
- While the cinnamon rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl to create the icing.
- Once the rolls emerge from the oven, drizzle the warm icing over them and allow them to cool slightly before indulging.
Notes or Tips
For an extra delightful twist, consider adding a touch of vanilla extract to the dough for additional flavor. If you prefer, feel free to swap out the nuts for raisins or omit them entirely. These rolls can also be prepared in advance; simply refrigerate overnight after cutting them, and let them rise for about 30 minutes at room temperature before baking.
Cooking Techniques
Creating the perfect cinnamon roll involves a few simple techniques:
- Kneading: This helps activate the gluten in the flour, resulting in a soft and airy texture. Make sure your dough is smooth and elastic.
- Proofing: Allowing the dough to rise in a warm environment is crucial for a fluffy roll. Keep it covered to retain moisture.
- Baking: Keep an eye on the rolls near the end of the baking time to avoid over-browning. The rolls should be golden on top and soft to the touch.
FAQ
Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, bread flour can give your rolls a chewier texture due to its higher protein content, but all-purpose flour works perfectly, too!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds!
Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! After baking, allow them to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. To enjoy, thaw and reheat in the oven for a warm treat!
Conclusion
These traditional yeast cinnamon rolls are a warm, sweet indulgence that will surely become a cherished recipe in your home. With their golden-brown tops and gooey, cinnamon-sugar filling, they promise to delight with every fluffy bite. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or enjoying them on a cozy weekend morning, these rolls are bound to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!