Introduction
There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the house, isn’t there? The aroma of warm yeast dough mingling with sweet cinnamon and creamy icing can make any morning feel special. These easy homemade cinnamon rolls are perfect for brunch gatherings, lazy weekend mornings, or any time you want to indulge in a comforting treat. With soft, fluffy rolls and a rich, gooey filling, you’ll want to savor each sticky bite.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy — the yeast is waking up, and soon you’ll have delicious rolls!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, melted butter, and salt. Pour in the frothy yeast mixture and mix until everything is well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough begins to form.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. It should feel soft and pliable.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, which will take about 1 hour.
- After the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a greased baking dish.
- Roll the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick, creating a perfect canvas for your filling.
- Spread the softened butter over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and ground cinnamon evenly on top, creating that irresistible filling.
- Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, ensuring a snug fit for each glorious roll.
- Cut the log into 12 equal slices and place them in your greased baking dish, cut side up.
- Cover the rolls and let them rise for another 30 minutes. This will give them that fluffy texture we all love!
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and your kitchen smells heavenly.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and just enough milk to reach your desired icing consistency.
- Once the cinnamon rolls are warm and slightly cooled, drizzle the creamy icing over the top and prepare for a delightful taste experience.
Notes or Tips
For a flavor twist, consider adding chopped nuts or raisins to the filling. If you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough is essential for achieving that soft, fluffy texture. Don’t rush this step! Make sure to allow the dough to rise adequately to develop its flavor and structure. If you’re short on time, you can let the rolls rise in a slightly warmed oven (just remember to turn it off before placing the dough inside).
FAQ
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Just bring it back to room temperature before rolling out.
What can I substitute for milk?
You can use almond milk, oat milk, or any other non-dairy milk you prefer. Just make sure it’s warm when adding it to the yeast.
Conclusion
Now that you have this delightful recipe for homemade cinnamon rolls, it’s time to gather your loved ones and enjoy a wonderful treat together! With their fluffy texture and sweet cinnamon filling, these rolls can bring a smile to anyone’s face. So roll up your sleeves, get baking, and enjoy the delicious rewards of your hard work!