Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls filling your kitchen, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion. These homemade cinnamon rolls, made without a mixer, are beautifully soft and fluffy, with a rich, mouthwatering cinnamon filling. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, brunch, or simply as a sweet treat, these rolls are sure to warm your heart and delight your taste buds!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, salt, and ground cinnamon. Mix well.
- In a saucepan, gently heat the whole milk and unsalted butter over medium heat until it’s warm and the butter has melted. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast!
- Pour the warm milk mixture into the flour mixture and stir until everything is combined.
- Add the eggs, mixing them in, and then add the remaining flour, one cup at a time, stirring until a dough forms.
- On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle generously with brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled dough into 12 equal rolls.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking pan, cover them again, and allow them to rise for an additional 30 minutes.
- During the last few minutes of rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and heavenly fragrant.
- In a small bowl, combine powdered sugar and milk to create a smooth glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls just before serving to add a delightful sweet touch.
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, try adding chopped nuts or raisins to the filling. If you enjoy your rolls with cream cheese frosting, simply replace the milk in the glaze with cream cheese for a rich variation. Be sure to store leftover rolls in an airtight container to keep them fresh for days!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes a simple hand-kneading technique which gives you a wonderful workout while you whip up these delightful rolls! Additionally, the rising periods are essential for achieving a light, fluffy texture, so be patient and let the dough do its magic. Always check that the milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
FAQ
Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls up to the second rise, cover them well, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, allow them to come to room temperature and rise for about 30 minutes before baking.
What if I don’t have whole milk?
You can substitute with 2% milk or even almond milk if you prefer a dairy-free option. Just be aware that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Conclusion
There you have it! These delicious homemade cinnamon rolls are a wonderful way to bring a little joy into your day. The process may seem a bit involved, but the warm, gooey rolls swirled with cinnamon and topped with a sweet glaze will make it all worthwhile. Gather your loved ones around the table, and enjoy the smiles as you share these delightful treats!