There’s nothing quite like the warm, sweet aroma of cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen, beckoning everyone in for a taste. Imagine sinking your teeth into a fluffy roll, the sweet cinnamon sugar melting in your mouth, while the icing drizzles down like a sugary hug. It’s a moment that makes you feel like you’ve just walked into a cozy bakery on a chilly morning.
These delightful treats have a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I made cinnamon rolls for my family; it was during a holiday brunch. The joy on their faces as they took the first bite was priceless—like I’d just uncovered the secret to happiness. It’s perfect for lazy Sunday mornings or festive gatherings when you want to impress your guests without slaving away in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These cinnamon rolls are easy to prepare and come together with minimal fuss
- Their flavor is an enchanting blend of sweet and spicy that will make your taste buds dance
- Visually appealing, they look stunning drizzled with creamy icing
- Perfect for breakfast or dessert, these rolls can easily become a family favorite
I still chuckle every time I think about that first batch of cinnamon rolls I made; they were so gooey that they practically required a rescue mission to get them out of the pan!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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All-Purpose Flour: This is your base; use unbleached flour for a more natural flavor.
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Granulated Sugar: A touch of sweetness enhances both the dough and filling.
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Active Dry Yeast: Make sure it’s fresh for those fluffy rises; check expiration dates.
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Milk: Warm milk helps activate yeast and creates tender rolls.
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Eggs: They add richness and structure to the dough.
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Cinnamon: The star of our show! Use freshly ground for intense flavor.
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Butter: Melted butter adds moisture and richness—don’t skimp!
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Powdered Sugar: For our luscious icing, it adds sweetness without grittiness.
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Vanilla Extract: A splash gives depth to your icing; don’t skip this!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Dough: Start by warming milk until it’s just warm to touch (about 110°F or 43°C). Pour it into a large mixing bowl and sprinkle the yeast over it. Let it sit for about five minutes until frothy.
Add Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the yeast mixture while stirring until it forms a shaggy dough.
Knead Away!: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. You should be able to stretch it without tearing—like you’re showing off some impressive dough gymnastics!
Let It Rise!: Place your dough in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (about 1 hour). Go ahead and watch some TV while you wait!
Create That Filling!: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon together. Once your dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Brush melted butter all over it like you’re painting—then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top.
Roll & Slice!: Starting from one edge, tightly roll up the rectangle into a log shape. Slice into 12 equal pieces using unflavored dental floss or a sharp knife—no need to wrestle with sticky dough here!
Bake Those Rolls!: Place each slice in a greased baking dish about an inch apart. Cover again and let rise for another 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown; they should smell divine!
Now go ahead and whip up that icing while waiting for them to cool slightly! Mix powdered sugar with vanilla extract and enough milk to reach desired consistency—it should be smooth yet pourable.
Drizzle generously on those warm cinnamon rolls—because why not? You deserve it!
Enjoy every bite of these delightful cinnamon rolls that promise smiles all around!
You Must Know
- These cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that combines warm, gooey sweetness with a hint of spice
- The smell of baking cinnamon rolls fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas, making it hard to wait for them to cool
- Perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the dough and letting it rise until doubled in size. While the dough is rising, mix the filling and prepare your baking dish. Bake until golden brown for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to switch up the fillings by adding nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips. Top with cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze for an extra indulgent treat.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy that fresh-baked flavor again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality cinnamon for a richer flavor that elevates your rolls
- Let your dough rise in a warm place for better texture and fluffiness
- Don’t rush the baking time; underbaking can lead to doughy centers
Baking these cinnamon rolls always reminds me of family gatherings, where laughter and sweet aromas filled the air, creating cherished memories around the table.
FAQ
What can I use instead of yeast?
You can try using baking powder as an alternative but expect different results.
Can I freeze cinnamon rolls before baking?
Yes, freeze unbaked rolls on a tray and store them in an airtight container.
How do I make my cinnamon rolls fluffier?
Ensure your dough rises adequately and don’t skip kneading for optimum texture.
Cinnamon Rolls
Cinnamon rolls are the ultimate comfort food, filling your kitchen with a cozy, sweet aroma that invites everyone to indulge. With their fluffy texture and delightful cinnamon sugar filling, these rolls are perfect for brunch or dessert. Topped with creamy icing, each bite melts in your mouth and brings smiles all around. Whether for a lazy Sunday morning or a festive gathering, this easy recipe will impress your guests without keeping you tied to the kitchen.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 rolls 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Warm milk to about 110°F, sprinkle yeast over it, and let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Gradually add to the yeast mixture until shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
- Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled (about 1 hour).
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- On a floured surface, roll into a rectangle (1/4 inch thick). Brush with melted butter and sprinkle filling evenly.
- Roll tightly from one edge into a log and slice into 12 pieces.
- Place slices in a greased baking dish; cover and let rise for another 30 minutes while preheating the oven to 350°F. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla to reach desired consistency; drizzle over warm rolls.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (85g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
