Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen. These Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls are the epitome of comfort food, boasting a rich, buttery dough and a luscious filling of cinnamon and brown sugar. Topped with a drizzle of creamy icing, they’re perfect for a weekend brunch or a cozy afternoon treat. Gather your loved ones, and let’s create a warm, mouthwatering experience together!
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 whole milk and melted butter until warm, but not boiling.
- Pour the warm milk mixture into the dry ingredients, then add in the eggs. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the remaining flour while kneading the dough until it becomes soft and slightly sticky.
- Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle it with the packed brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log, ensuring the filling stays inside. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, making sure to leave space for them to rise. Cover and let them rise again for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the warm icing over them before serving. Enjoy the delightful transformation!
Notes or Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling.
- If you prefer a pecan sticky bun style, flip the rolls upside down in the pan and add caramel sauce and nuts before baking.
- These rolls can be made a day ahead — just refrigerate the rolls after shaping them and let them rise before baking.
Cooking Techniques
Kneading dough is essential for developing gluten, which helps achieve that delightful chewy texture. When rolling out the dough, take care to get an even thickness to ensure uniform baking. If you’re unsure about the warmth for rising, a switched-off oven with the light on creates a perfect atmosphere for your dough to rise.
FAQ
- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, you can substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
- How do I store leftover rolls? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Can I freeze these rolls? Absolutely! Freeze the baked rolls in an airtight container. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Conclusion
These Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls are not just a treat; they’re an experience that brings warmth and smiles to any gathering. With layers of cinnamon-sugar goodness and a sweet, creamy glaze, each bite melts in your mouth, making every effort worth it. So roll up your sleeves and let the kitchen fill with love and laughter. Happy baking!