Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home on a cozy morning. These traditional yeast cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat, with soft, pillowy dough swirled around a rich filling of cinnamon and sugar. Drizzled with a sweet frosting, they are perfect for brunch, special occasions, or simply to enjoy with a cup of coffee. Let’s dive into the warm, comforting world of homemade cinnamon rolls that will surely bring smiles to everyone at the table!
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ½ cup granulated sugar, divided
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
- 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 small bowl, combine the warm milk, active dry yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy and bubbly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, the remaining sugar, and the eggs until well combined. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until everything is incorporated.
- Gradually add the flour and salt into the mixture, stirring until a soft dough begins to form.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic to the touch.
- Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
- Spread softened butter evenly over the surface of the dough, then sprinkle with brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and nuts if you’re using them.
- Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice it into 12 equal pieces.
- Arrange the sliced rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a bit of space in between each roll.
- Cover the rolls and let them rise for another 30 minutes while your oven finishes preheating.
- Bake the cinnamon rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting by mixing together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
- Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the frosting generously over the top before serving.
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a touch of nutmeg to the filling! If you’re a fan of cream cheese frosting, feel free to substitute it for the simple glaze. These rolls can be made ahead of time: prepare them up to the second rise, then refrigerate overnight. Just allow them to come to room temperature before baking.
Cooking Techniques
Kneading is crucial for developing the gluten structure in the dough, making your cinnamon rolls perfectly soft and fluffy. When you let the dough rise, the yeast is working its magic, creating air pockets that result in a light texture. If you don’t have a warm spot in your kitchen, preheat your oven to the lowest setting for just a few minutes, then turn it off and place the covered dough inside to rise.
FAQ
Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked rolls after the second rise. Just wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and then bake as directed.
What can I do if my dough isn’t rising?
Make sure your yeast is fresh and that you’re using warm (not hot) milk to activate it. If the environment is too cold, find a warmer spot or use the oven trick mentioned above!
Conclusion
These traditional yeast cinnamon rolls are sure to become a cherished recipe in your home. With each bite, you’ll experience the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar, all wrapped in soft, buttery dough. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of day, they are a delightful addition to any kitchen. Enjoy the love that goes into making and sharing these rolls with family and friends!