Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the house. These Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls are a warm hug on a plate, perfect for a cozy breakfast or a delightful afternoon treat. With their soft, pillowy texture and rich cinnamon filling, these rolls are sure to become a beloved addition to your family’s recipe collection. Let’s indulge in this wonderful baking adventure!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (for icing)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt. Whisk together until evenly mixed.
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk and melted butter until warm but not boiling. Pour this mixture into the flour mixture.
- Add the eggs and mix until thoroughly combined, then gradually incorporate the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
- On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface of the dough, then sprinkle with packed brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from one long side, and slice it into 12 equal pieces.
- Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, then cover them and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown color.
- While the rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl to create a smooth icing.
- Once the rolls are out of the oven, brush the warm icing over the rolls, allowing it to glaze each one lovingly.
Notes or Tips
For an extra special touch, you can add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or raisins to the cinnamon filling before rolling it up. If you’re short on time, feel free to prepare the dough the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking!
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the art of cinnamon roll-making is all about following the dough’s cues. Make sure to knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic, which will ensure a tender and fluffy roll. Allowing the dough to rise properly is key to getting those delightful layers; give it time to double in size, and don’t rush the second rise either—patience makes perfect!
FAQ
Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls? Yes! After slicing the rolls, you can freeze them before the second rise. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and allow them to rise before baking.
Can I replace the milk with a dairy alternative? Absolutely! You can use almond milk, soy milk, or any preferred non-dairy milk in this recipe, and the taste will still be wonderful.
Conclusion
These Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls are the epitome of comfort food, bringing warmth and sweetness to your kitchen. With just a bit of time and love, you can create a batch of fluffy, cinnamon-infused delights that will make your breakfast or brunch unforgettable. So roll up your sleeves, turn on your oven, and enjoy the sweet rewards of your hard work!