Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of fresh cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen. These golden-brown spirals, soft and pillowy in texture, are a warm hug for your taste buds. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that melts into every crevice, they’re perfect for weekend brunches, special occasions, or even just cozying up at home. Let’s dive into making these delightful treats from scratch, which will undoubtedly become a family favorite!
Ingredients
For the cinnamon rolls:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 package (2¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup brown sugar
For the cream cheese frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, active dry yeast, granulated sugar, and salt. This mixture forms the base for your fluffy rolls.
- In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk and melted butter until warm, but not boiling. You want it cozy, not too hot!
- Pour the warm milk mixture into the dry ingredients along with the eggs. Stir until a sticky dough begins to form.
- On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Enjoy the feel of this beautiful dough as it comes together.
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once risen, roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle about ½ inch thick, feeling the softness beneath your rolling pin.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon and brown sugar liberally on top for a delightful flavor explosion.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice it into 12 equal rolls to ensure every piece has that heavenly cinnamon swirl.
- Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise for another 30 minutes to fluff up beautifully.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) while you wait.
- Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and your kitchen smells irresistible.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy.
- Once the rolls are done and slightly cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting on top, letting it melt into each roll.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra touch, add nuts or raisins in the filling for added texture and flavor.
- If you want to make these ahead of time, prepare the rolls up to the second rise, cover well, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply let them come to room temperature before baking.
- Experiment with different extracts in the frosting— almond extract adds a delightful twist!
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the art of dough rising is key to these fluffy cinnamon rolls. For optimal rising, find a warm, draft-free place in your kitchen, such as near a sunny window or warmed oven. Kneading the dough properly ensures a light texture, so don’t rush the process! And remember: each roll should be tightly rolled to ensure that sweet filling isn’t lost inside when baked.
FAQ
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, but your cinnamon rolls may be denser. You could also use a mix of both for a healthier alternative.
- How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls? Place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy them warm again!
Conclusion
Now that you have this recipe, you’ve got the power to create comforting, homemade cinnamon rolls that will bring smiles and joy to your kitchen. The aroma of cinnamon and sugar mingling with cream cheese frosting is pure bliss. Get ready to indulge in a delightful treat that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also warms your heart. Happy baking!