Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. These easy cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat for breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack, filled with a rich blend of cinnamon and sugar, all wrapped up in a soft, pillowy dough. When you take a bite, the warm, gooey center and the sweet icing will transport you to a cozy bakery. Let’s dive into this simple yet indulgent recipe that brings the joy of homemade goodies right to your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (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 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt. Stir gently to mix everything together.
- In a small saucepan, heat the whole milk and melted butter over medium heat until warm (about 110°F). This temperature helps activate the yeast.
- Pour the warm milk and butter mixture into the flour mixture, then add the eggs. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Gradually add the remaining flour, half a cup at a time, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once risen, roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle, approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread melted butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with packed brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking pan, spacing them apart so they have room to rise.
- Cover the rolls and allow them to rise for an additional 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes, until they are golden brown and the house is filled with their delightful scent.
- While the rolls bake, prepare the icing by mixing powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk in a small bowl until smooth.
- Once baked, drizzle the warm icing over the rolls and serve them fresh from the oven.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra touch of flavor, you can add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling before rolling it up.
- If you want to prep these rolls ahead of time, you can assemble them the night before, cover them, and let them rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before baking.
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough not only helps develop gluten, which gives the rolls their chewy texture, but it also creates a better crumb. Pay attention to the consistency of the dough — it should be pliable and slightly tacky, but not overly sticky. When rolling, ensure that your surface and rolling pin are well-floured to prevent sticking.
FAQ
- Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition, but the rolls may be denser. - What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Ensure your yeast is not expired and that the milk was warm, not hot. A too-cold environment can also inhibit rise; try placing it in a slightly warm oven.
Conclusion
These easy cinnamon rolls are sure to become a beloved recipe in your home. With their sweet, spiced filling and luscious icing, they’re perfect for sharing with family and friends, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee on a quiet morning. Treat yourself to this delightful baking experience, and watch as everyone gathers around, eager for a taste of your homemade creation. Happy baking!