Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the warm aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. Soft, pillowy dough swirls together with a rich, sweet filling of brown sugar and cinnamon, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Topped with a creamy glaze, these cinnamon rolls are bound to become a family favorite. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this homemade goodness!
Ingredients
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ½ cup warm milk (110°F)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes bubbly and frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk them together until well blended.
- Pour the yeast mixture into the sugar mixture and stir until combined.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing well until a soft dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once risen, roll out the dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 15×9 inches.
- Spread the softened butter generously over the dough, then sprinkle it with the packed brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log and pinch the seams to seal it.
- Carefully cut the roll into 12 even pieces and arrange them in a greased baking dish.
- Cover the rolls and allow them to rise again for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on a wire rack.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk to make a smooth glaze. Drizzle it generously over the warm cinnamon rolls.
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, use fresh spices and high-quality vanilla extract. If you want to get creative, add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling for an extra burst of flavor. These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed warm but can be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days.
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough is crucial for developing the gluten, which gives the rolls their delightful texture. Don’t rush the rising times—allowing the dough to rise fully will result in soft, fluffy rolls. When rolling up the dough, ensure it is tight enough to prevent gaps, which helps keep the filling inside.
FAQ
Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before, allow it to rise, then refrigerate it overnight. Take it out the next morning and let it come to room temperature before proceeding with the rolling and baking.
Can I freeze the cinnamon rolls?
Yes! After cutting the rolls, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to bake, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then let them rise a bit before baking.
Conclusion
These homemade cinnamon rolls are a delicious way to treat yourself and your loved ones. With their warm and comforting flavors, they are perfect for Sunday brunch, holidays, or any day that calls for a little extra sweetness. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delightful process of baking these treats. Your kitchen will smell heavenly, and your taste buds will be thanking you!