Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the warm, welcoming aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen. These delightful treats are a perfect way to start your morning or brighten up any afternoon. With their soft, pillowy texture and rich, sweet filling, homemade cinnamon rolls are sure to become a beloved favorite in your home. Let’s dive into making a batch that will fill your home with love and laughter!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (for icing)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
- In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk and melted butter until it’s warm but not boiling.
- Pour the warm milk mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients, stirring until everything is well combined.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring they’re fully incorporated after each addition.
- Gradually add the remaining flour until the dough forms a slightly sticky ball.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until it feels smooth and elastic.
- Transfer the dough to 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.
- Once risen, roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle measuring approximately 16×12 inches.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough, followed by a generous sprinkle of brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Starting from the long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log and slice it into 12 equal pieces.
- Arrange the rolls in a greased baking pan. Cover them and allow them to rise again for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown.
- While the rolls are baking, mix together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl to create a smooth icing.
- Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the warm icing over them before serving to create a sweet, dreamy finish.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra indulgent twist, consider adding raisins or chopped pecans to the filling.
- If you want to make them ahead of time, you can prepare the rolls up to the second rise, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Just allow them to come to room temperature before baking.
- Serve them warm for the ultimate experience, preferably with a cup of coffee or tea!
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough is a crucial step to develop gluten, which gives the rolls their fluffy texture. Be sure to flour your surface generously to prevent sticking. When it comes time to roll the dough, aim for an even thickness to ensure uniform baking. And don’t forget to let your rolls rise in a warm spot; this helps them become light and airy.
FAQ
- Can I freeze cinnamon rolls? Absolutely! After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature or reheat in the oven.
- What can I use instead of active dry yeast? If you have instant yeast, you can use that instead! Just skip the step of proofing it in water.
Conclusion
Homemade cinnamon rolls are not just a treat; they’re a celebration of comfort and happiness. With each bite, you’ll experience the warmth of sweet spices and the tenderness of dough that’s been crafted with love. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack, these rolls are sure to bring a smile to your face. Happy baking!