Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. These homemade cinnamon rolls are soft, fluffy, and filled with layers of sweet, cinnamon goodness. Topped with a luscious glaze, they make for the perfect breakfast treat or a delightful afternoon snack. Gather your loved ones, and let’s embark on this delightful baking adventure together!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
- 2 tablespoons milk (for icing)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy and bubbly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, and salt. Pour in the frothy yeast mixture, stirring until everything is well combined.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing with a spoon or your hands until a soft dough begins to form. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and set it in a warm place to rise until it doubles in size, which should take about 1 hour.
- Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air and roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough. Then, sprinkle the brown sugar and ground cinnamon generously on top.
- Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 equal pieces.
- Arrange the sliced cinnamon rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them, and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes, allowing them to become puffy and inviting.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown.
- To make the icing, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. Drizzle this delightful glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls just before serving.
Notes or Tips
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon filling.
- If you have any leftovers, store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- These rolls can also be frozen before baking. Just place the sliced rolls in the freezer on a baking sheet, and once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
Cooking Techniques
Don’t be intimidated by the yeast! It’s the magic ingredient that gives these cinnamon rolls their fluffy texture. Ensure that your milk is warm but not too hot; a temperature of about 110°F (43°C) is perfect for activating the yeast. Also, kneading the dough well is essential for developing gluten, making your rolls delightfully tender.
FAQ
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Absolutely! If using instant yeast, there’s no need to proof it in warm milk; just mix it directly with the flour.
How can I make the rolls less sweet?
Feel free to reduce the amount of granulated and brown sugar, or use an unsweetened filling alternative.
What can I serve with cinnamon rolls?
A hot cup of coffee or tea pairs wonderfully with these cinnamon rolls, enhancing the sweet, spiced flavors!
Conclusion
Baking homemade cinnamon rolls is a labor of love that yields scrumptious results. The soft, pillowy texture combined with the rich cinnamon filling creates a delightful treat your family and friends will adore. Whether enjoyed on a lazy weekend morning or as a special dessert, these rolls are sure to warm your heart and bring a smile to your face. Happy baking!