Introduction
Ah, the warm, gooey embrace of freshly baked cinnamon rolls—there’s nothing quite like it! This recipe captures the essence of iconic Cinnabon cinnamon rolls, bringing their rich, buttery goodness right into your own kitchen. Picture biting into a soft, pillowy roll, bursting with the sweet aroma of cinnamon and sugar, topped with a luscious cream cheese icing. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or a delightful afternoon treat, these rolls are sure to become a beloved favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry 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 packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- Start by whisking together 2 cups of flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, mix the warmed whole milk and melted unsalted butter, then gently stir in the eggs until well combined.
- Pour the warm milk mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients, mixing until the dough starts to come together.
- Gradually add in the remaining flour, continuing to mix until a soft dough forms.
- On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic to the touch.
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, covering it with a towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently, then roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the softened butter evenly across the rolled-out dough, followed by an even sprinkle of brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log and cut it into 12 equal-sized rolls.
- Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise again for about 30 minutes, until puffy.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while waiting.
- Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, until they are a beautiful golden brown on top.
- While the rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth to create a delicious icing.
- Once the rolls are golden and fragrant, let them cool slightly before drizzling the creamy icing generously over the top.
Notes or Tips
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the brown sugar filling before rolling. If you want to prep ahead, you can assemble the rolls the night before and let them rise in the refrigerator, allowing them to come to room temperature before baking. Don’t hesitate to get creative with the icing—feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or even a splash of maple syrup for an extra twist!
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough is crucial for developing gluten, which gives the rolls their tender texture. If you’re new to this step, don’t worry! Just fold and stretch the dough with your hands until it feels smooth and elastic. Additionally, warm milk activates the yeast, leading to a fluffy rise. A warm (but not hot) environment is essential for the dough’s fermentation, so find a cozy spot in your kitchen during the rising stages.
FAQ
Can I freeze these rolls?
Absolutely! After the second rise, you can freeze the unbaked rolls in a covered container. Just lay them out to thaw and rise before baking, following the same baking instructions.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead?
You can substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier roll, but keep in mind the texture will be denser.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve unravelled the secrets of making these delightful copycat Cinnabon cinnamon rolls, gather your loved ones and indulge in the heavenly scent and delicious taste right from your own oven. Warm, fluffy, and bursting with cinnamon goodness, these rolls are a sweet way to spread joy and create lasting memories. Enjoy every bite—and watch as your friends and family come back for seconds!