Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Introduction

There’s something undeniably magical about the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. These soft, gooey pastries, with their warm cinnamon filling and rich, sweet icing, are the perfect treat for breakfast or brunch — or really, any time of the day! This homemade cinnamon rolls recipe is simple enough for beginners yet rewarding enough for seasoned bakers. Once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why they’re loved by many!

Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
  • 2-3 tbsp milk (for icing)

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls

Directions and Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and let it stand for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and aromatic.
  2. Add the eggs and salt to the yeast mixture, stirring gently to combine all the ingredients.
  3. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms that pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Don’t be afraid to get your hands a little messy!
  5. Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This is the perfect time to enjoy a cup of coffee!
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) — the scent of baking cinnamon rolls will soon fill your kitchen!
  7. Roll the dough out onto a floured surface into a rectangle, approximately 16×12 inches. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough.
  8. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon together, then generously sprinkle this mixture over the buttered dough.
  9. Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Use a sharp knife to cut the log into 12 equal slices.
  10. Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them with a cloth, and allow them to rise for an additional 30 minutes.
  11. Once puffed and ready, bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the rolls are golden brown and your kitchen smells heavenly.
  12. While the rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until the icing is smooth and creamy.
  13. As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, drizzle the icing over them while they’re still warm for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Notes or Tips

  • For extra decadence, feel free to add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling.
  • Letting the cinnamon rolls rise in a warm, draft-free place is key to achieving maximum fluffiness.
  • If you want to prepare these ahead of time, you can freeze the unbaked rolls. Just thaw and let them rise before baking!

Cooking Techniques

Mastering the technique of kneading dough is essential for achieving that perfect, soft texture. Remember to use a light touch; you don’t want to overwork the dough. Also, keep an eye on the baking time, as oven temperatures can vary, and slight adjustments might be necessary to avoid over-baking.

FAQ

  • Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast? Yes, if using instant yeast, you can mix it directly with the dry ingredients without activating it first.
  • What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for a delightful treat later!
  • Can I make the dough the night before? Absolutely! Prepare the dough and place it in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, let it come to room temperature, shape, and bake.

Conclusion

Making these homemade cinnamon rolls is sure to bring a smile to your face and delight everyone who shares them with you. With their warm, gooey filling and sweet icing, they are the epitome of comfort food. Whether for a special occasion or a simple weekend breakfast, these cinnamon rolls are bound to become a family favorite. So gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the sweet joy of baking!

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