Cinnamon Roll
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Indulge in the warm, gooey goodness of homemade cinnamon rolls, perfect for a cozy breakfast or a delightful treat any time of the day.
This cinnamon roll recipe is a beloved classic that brings warmth and comfort to any kitchen. The rich aroma of cinnamon and sugar fills the air as these rolls bake to golden perfection.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Soft and fluffy texture that makes every bite delightful
- Sweet cinnamon filling that warms the soul
- Drizzled with creamy icing for the perfect finish
The Perfect Weekend Treat
There's something special about waking up to the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen. Perfect for a lazy weekend morning, these rolls can elevate your breakfast from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you're enjoying them with a hot cup of coffee or sharing them with family, this recipe offers a warm, comforting start to your day.
Making cinnamon rolls from scratch may seem daunting, but this recipe simplifies the process, allowing anyone to enjoy the deliciousness of homemade pastries. With a little patience and love, you can create soft, fluffy rolls that are sure to impress. They are perfect for brunch gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply as a sweet indulgence any day of the week.
Tips for Success
To achieve the best results, ensure that your ingredients are at the right temperature. The milk should be warm but not hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast. Additionally, using fresh active dry yeast is crucial for the dough to rise properly. Always check the expiration date on your yeast packet to guarantee the best outcome.
When kneading the dough, be careful not to add too much extra flour, as this can lead to dense rolls. The dough should be slightly tacky but manageable. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle just a little flour at a time until you reach the desired consistency. This will help maintain the lovely soft texture of your cinnamon rolls.
Serving Suggestions
Cinnamon rolls are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience with a few simple serving suggestions. Pair them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert option. You can also serve them alongside fresh fruit or a fruit preserve to balance the sweetness.
For a unique twist, consider adding nuts or raisins to the filling. Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a satisfying crunch, while raisins provide a burst of natural sweetness. Customize your cinnamon rolls to suit your taste preferences, making them even more enjoyable for you and your guests.
Ingredients
Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
Filling
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Mix the ingredients well to ensure a smooth dough.
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add melted butter, eggs, and salt, mixing well.
Knead and Rise
Turn the dough onto a floured surface, knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Make the Filling
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter, then sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Roll and Slice
Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into 12 equal pieces. Place rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Prepare the Icing
While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over warm cinnamon rolls before serving.
Enjoy your homemade cinnamon rolls fresh out of the oven!
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftover cinnamon rolls (which is rare!), storing them properly will keep them fresh for days. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, which will keep them good for about a week.
When you're ready to enjoy your leftover rolls, gently reheat them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Alternatively, you can pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their warm, gooey texture.
Variations to Try
This cinnamon roll recipe serves as a fantastic base for various creative variations. For a pumpkin spice twist, incorporate pumpkin puree into the dough and add nutmeg along with the cinnamon in the filling. You can also add chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
Experimenting with different glazes can also enhance the flavor profile of your rolls. Consider a maple glaze for a unique touch or a cream cheese frosting for a tangy contrast to the sweetness. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to personalize your cinnamon rolls to suit any occasion.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight before rolling.
→ How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze the cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! Freeze unbaked rolls before the second rise. When ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before baking.
→ What can I substitute for milk?
You can use almond milk or any plant-based milk as a substitute.
Cinnamon Roll
Indulge in the warm, gooey goodness of homemade cinnamon rolls, perfect for a cozy breakfast or a delightful treat any time of the day.
Created by: Isla Turner
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 rolls
What You'll Need
Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
Filling
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add melted butter, eggs, and salt, mixing well. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface, knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter, then sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into 12 equal pieces. Place rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over warm cinnamon rolls before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 310mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 54g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 22g
- Protein: 6g