Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. This classic treat is a beloved favorite, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you crave something sweet. Soft, fluffy dough swirled with rich brown sugar and fragrant cinnamon, topped with a creamy icing — it’s no wonder these homemade cinnamon rolls create a comforting moment for everyone who enjoys them. Join me in making these delightful rolls that are sure to bring smiles to your table!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup whole milk, warmed
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy and bubbly — a beautiful sign that your yeast is active!
- Add the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix ingredients together until everything is well combined.
- Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing continuously until a soft dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic under your hands.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the dough has risen beautifully, roll it out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick on a floured surface.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon, ensuring even coverage for a rich burst of flavor with every bite.
- Carefully roll the dough tightly from one long end to the other, then slice it into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the sliced rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them, and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes, giving them time to puff up beautifully.
- Once risen, bake the rolls in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and your kitchen is filled with an irresistible scent.
- While the rolls bake, prepare the icing by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
- As soon as the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the icing generously over the warm rolls before serving — the icing will melt slightly, soaking into every fluffy layer.
Notes or Tips
For extra flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or raisins to the filling before rolling. If you like your cinnamon rolls with a bit of a kick, try a pinch of nutmeg in the filling. You can also prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator to save time in the morning!
Cooking Techniques
Kneading is crucial to getting that perfect fluffy texture, as it develops the gluten in the dough. Be gentle yet firm, and don’t rush this step. Additionally, ensuring your milk is warm, but not hot, will help activate the yeast without killing it. A good rise is key to achieving that soft and airy roll.
FAQ
Can I make these cinnamon rolls in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and keep it in the refrigerator overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before rolling out and baking.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days, or you can refrigerate them for up to a week. They can be reheated gently in the microwave or oven!
Conclusion
Making homemade cinnamon rolls is a delightful way to fill your home with warmth and happiness. With a swirl of sweet, cinnamon goodness and a luscious icing on top, these rolls are sure to become a treasured recipe in your collection. Gather your loved ones, share a warm roll, and indulge in the magic of homemade baking!