Introduction
Imagine waking up to the warm, tempting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. With these scrumptious no-knead cinnamon rolls, you can bring that dream to life with minimal effort! Perfectly soft and gooey, these delightful treats are drizzled with rich flavors of cinnamon and sugar, making them an irresistible indulgence for breakfast or brunch. The best part? You won’t have to knead the dough—a simple mix, rise, and bake technique transforms your ingredients into a fluffy masterpiece. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the delicious world of homemade cinnamon rolls!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, salt, and granulated sugar, ensuring they are well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix the warm milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until blended.
- Carefully pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until a sticky dough forms. No need to knead—just mix until combined!
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature for 1-2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size. The longer it rises, the fluffier your rolls will be!
- Once risen, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking dish by greasing it lightly.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and roll it gently into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick, taking your time to keep an even shape.
- Spread the softened butter generously over the dough, then sprinkle with a delightful mix of brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and raisins (if you choose to add them) for that extra burst of flavor.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log, ensuring the filling stays put, and slice it into 1-inch thick rolls.
- Place the sliced rolls in the prepared baking dish, pour the heavy cream evenly over the top, and cover with a towel. Allow them to rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown, filling your kitchen with heavenly scents.
- After baking, let the rolls cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm for the ultimate treat!
Notes or Tips
To elevate your cinnamon rolls, consider adding a drizzle of icing made from powdered sugar and a splash of milk for a sweet finishing touch. If you prefer a nutty dimension, chopped pecans or walnuts make a delightful addition. Remember, these rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days—or you can freeze them for a later indulgence!
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the art of no-knead dough is all about patience and the right rise. The instant yeast allows for a quicker rise, which is perfect for those spontaneous baking moods. Allowing the dough to rise twice ensures that your rolls will be airy and fluffy, while the heavy cream adds an extra layer of richness as they bake. This technique results in rolls that are wonderfully soft on the inside while achieving that lovely golden exterior.
FAQ
Can I make the dough the night before?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Just bring it back to room temperature before rolling it out the next morning.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, whole milk or half-and-half can be alternatives, though the texture may be slightly less rich.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, though it might alter the texture slightly. You may need to adjust the moisture content by adding a bit more milk.
Conclusion
These no-knead cinnamon rolls are sure to become a beloved staple in your home. With their soft, pillowy texture and a delightful cinnamon-sugar filling, they’re perfect for sharing with family and friends or savoring all on your own. Roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and embark on this baking adventure. Happiness—and perhaps a little sticky sweetness—awaits!