Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen. These soft, fluffy rolls are swirled with a deliciously sweet cinnamon filling and topped with a creamy glaze that brings joy to every bite. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a cozy family gathering, this easy homemade cinnamon roll recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite. Let’s dive into this delightful baking adventure!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon instant 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
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- 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.
- In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk and melted butter until warm but not hot, just the perfect temperature to encourage the yeast to wake up.
- Add the warm milk mixture to the dry ingredients and crack in the eggs. Mix until everything is just combined.
- Gradually add the remaining flour, kneading the dough until it becomes soft and elastic, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once risen, punch down the dough to release air bubbles, then roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the softened butter over the surface of the dough, then sprinkle it with the packed brown sugar and ground cinnamon evenly.
- Starting from one end, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, then cut it into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them, and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
- While they rise, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are a glorious golden brown.
- As the rolls bake, whip up the icing by mixing the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk or heavy cream, and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Once your cinnamon rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the icing over the warm rolls before serving. Enjoy the sweet indulgence!
Notes or Tips
For the best results, make sure your yeast is fresh! You can test it by adding a spoonful to warm water with a pinch of sugar; it should bubble if it’s active. If you’re short on time, you can refrigerate the rolls overnight before the second rise for a convenient morning treat.
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough is crucial to developing the gluten that gives your rolls their beautiful structure and softness. Don’t rush this step! Additionally, ensuring your dough rises in a warm environment will give you that light and airy texture we all love in homemade cinnamon rolls.
FAQ
Can I freeze the cinnamon rolls?
Yes! You can freeze the assembled rolls before the second rise. Just cover them well and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, let them rise in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Can I make these using whole wheat flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nutty flavor and extra nutrition, but the texture might be a bit denser.
Conclusion
Now that you have mastered the art of making easy homemade cinnamon rolls, I encourage you to share them with the ones you love. There’s something truly special about gathering around the table, enjoying warm rolls fresh from the oven, and soaking in the sweet, comforting flavors together. Happy baking!