Introduction
Homemade cinnamon rolls are a cherished favorite for breakfast or brunch, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that draws everyone in. With their soft, fluffy texture and warm, gooey cinnamon-sugar filling, these delightful treats are perfect for sharing with family and friends. And the best part? You can easily make them from scratch!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (for icing)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk over low heat until it’s warm (about 110°F). Remove from heat and stir in the yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out into a 16×12-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon evenly on top.
- Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log and pinch the seams to seal.
- Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.
- Cover the rolls with a cloth and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- While baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a small bowl to make the icing.
- Once done, let the rolls cool slightly, then drizzle the icing over the top before serving.
Notes or Tips
- For extra fluffiness, ensure that your yeast is fresh and active.
- You can make the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator for a slow ferment.
- Feel free to experiment with add-ins like chopped nuts or raisins for added texture and flavor.
Cooking Techniques
Creating homemade cinnamon rolls requires a few essential techniques such as kneading and rolling dough. Proper kneading helps develop the gluten in the flour, giving the rolls their characteristic soft texture. Rolling out the dough to the right thickness is also crucial for achieving that perfect swirl of cinnamon and sugar.
FAQ
- Can I freeze the cinnamon rolls? Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking. Just ensure they are properly wrapped!
- What if my dough doesn’t rise? This could be due to inactive yeast. Always check the expiration date on the yeast packet.
- How can I make these rolls dairy-free? Substitute the milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of homemade cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. With this easy recipe, you can treat yourself and your loved ones to a warm batch that’s sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. Enjoy the process, and savor every bite!