Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about the warm, sweet aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. These easy homemade cinnamon rolls are a perfect treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack, bringing a delightful burst of flavor with each bite. With soft, pillowy dough and a rich, gooey filling of cinnamon and brown sugar, they are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and yields delicious results every time!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
- 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 cinnamon rolls
Directions and Instructions
- Start by warming the whole milk in a small saucepan until it reaches a lukewarm temperature (about 110°F). Remove from heat and stir in the active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and eggs. Mix everything together until a dough begins to form.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen beautifully, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 16×24 inches in size.
- Spread the softened butter for the filling evenly over the dough, then generously sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon on top.
- Starting from one edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the sliced rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown.
- While the rolls are in the oven, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of milk in a small bowl to make a smooth icing.
- Once the rolls are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before drizzling the creamy icing over the top, allowing it to melt slightly into every crevice.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the filling before rolling the dough. If you’re in the mood for a little indulgence, a dash of vanilla extract in the icing can elevate this treat even further!
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough is crucial for developing gluten, which gives the cinnamon rolls their wonderful chewy texture. Don’t skip the rising times; allowing the dough to rise helps create that fluffy, light interior you want in a perfect roll. And remember, baking times may vary slightly by oven, so keep an eye on those rolls as they start to turn golden brown!
FAQ
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight. Just bring it back to room temperature before rolling it out.
How should I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Leftover cinnamon rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for later enjoyment!
Conclusion
These homemade cinnamon rolls are a delightful way to treat your loved ones or yourself. The blend of warm cinnamon and sugar inside a soft, buttery roll, topped with a sweet glaze, makes for a comforting indulgence. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the cozy feeling of baking from scratch while your kitchen fills with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked goodies!