Introduction
There’s something undeniably magical about the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. These Amish Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that combines fluffy dough with a gooey, spiced filling, making each bite a nostalgic embrace of warmth and comfort. Perfect for breakfast or as an indulgent afternoon snack, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Dive into these rich, buttery rolls that are topped with a sweet icing, taking you straight to that cozy kitchen atmosphere.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F to 115°F)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
- 2 tablespoons milk (for icing)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until frothy—it will feel like magic as it comes to life!
- Add the remaining sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs to the yeast mixture, mixing until everything is well combined.
- Gradually stir in the flour and salt, using a dough hook or a wooden spoon until a soft dough begins to form.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic, bringing forth that lovely gluten structure.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once risen, punch down the dough gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 16×24 inches.
- Spread the softened butter generously over the surface of the dough, creating a luscious base for your filling.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sprinkle this fragrant mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
- Starting from one end, tightly roll the dough into a log, pinching the seam to seal in all that delicious filling.
- Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space for them to rise.
- Cover the dish with a cloth and let the rolls rise for an additional 30 minutes, allowing their flavors to deepen.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you wait impatiently for those rolls to rise!
- Once ready, bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown on top.
- In the meantime, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl to create a silky icing.
- Drizzle this sweet, creamy icing over the warm cinnamon rolls before serving, and prepare for the sighs of delight!
Notes or Tips
For an extra special touch, feel free to add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling. If you’re making these cinnamon rolls ahead of time, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Just let them come to room temperature and rise before baking. And remember, these rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they also freeze well—just thaw them and warm them up when you’re ready for a treat!
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough helps develop the gluten, which gives your rolls that soft, chewy texture we all love. Be patient during the rising stages; this is where the magic happens, making your rolls light and fluffy. Keep an eye on the oven at the end of the baking time to ensure those lovely rolls don’t over-bake and lose their soft texture!
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, but you may need to adjust the liquid a bit, as whole wheat flour can absorb more moisture.
How can I store leftover cinnamon rolls? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. They can also be frozen for up to a month!
How do I reheat cinnamon rolls? Pop them in the microwave for a few seconds, or place them in a warm oven covered with foil until heated through.
Conclusion
Making Amish Cinnamon Rolls is not just about baking; it’s about creating cherished moments and delicious memories. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a special occasion, these rolls are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. So gather your loved ones, share the joy, and enjoy every gooey, sweet bite of these delightful treats. Happy baking!