Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen. This classic recipe for soft cinnamon rolls is the perfect blend of rich, buttery flavor and warm, spicy sweetness. With their pillowy texture and luscious icing, they make for an irresistible treat, ideal for brunch or a cozy family breakfast. Let’s dive into the delightful process of creating these warm, gooey rolls that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt, mixing well to incorporate all the dry ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, mix the warmed whole milk and melted butter together until blended, and then add this mixture to the dry ingredients.
- Beat in the eggs until fully combined, and gradually add the remaining flour, mixing until a soft dough starts to form.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5–7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until it has doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out into a rectangle roughly 16×12 inches in size.
- Spread the softened butter evenly across the dough, then sprinkle the packed brown sugar and ground cinnamon generously over the top.
- Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log and slice it into 12 equal rolls.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them, and allow them to rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and once ready, bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are a lovely golden brown.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Once the rolls are baked and irresistibly fragrant, remove them from the oven and drizzle the warm icing generously over the top.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch, consider adding chopped nuts or raisins to the filling. For a more intense cinnamon flavor, feel free to increase the amount of ground cinnamon used. If you’re making these ahead of time, you can prepare the rolls up to the point of slicing, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Just let them rise at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes the technique of yeast dough rising, which is essential to achieve that fluffy texture we all love in cinnamon rolls. Proper kneading helps develop the gluten in the dough, contributing to its elasticity. Make sure your milk isn’t too hot when mixing with the yeast, as it can kill the yeast and prevent your rolls from rising properly!
FAQ
Can I freeze the cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! After baking, allow them to cool completely. Then, wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw and reheat in the oven.
How do I know when my rolls are done baking?
Your rolls are perfectly baked when they are golden brown on top, and if you tap the bottom of one, it should sound hollow. The internal temperature should reach around 190°F (88°C).
Conclusion
These soft cinnamon rolls are more than just a delightful breakfast treat; they’re a warm hug in pastry form! Perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring by yourself, baking these rolls is bound to bring a smile to your face. Next time you’re in the mood for a sweet indulgence, give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!