Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the house. These homemade cinnamon rolls are not just a breakfast treat; they are a warm embrace on a chilly morning, a sweet indulgence any time of day. Imagine soft, pillowy rolls filled with a rich mixture of cinnamon and brown sugar, all topped off with a heavenly glaze that drizzles down the sides. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s perfect for sharing with family or enjoying all on your own!
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup milk, warmed
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk (for glaze)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt. Stir gently to mix the dry ingredients.
- In a saucepan, warm the milk and melt the butter together until the mixture is warm to the touch but not hot.
- Pour the warm milk mixture into the dry ingredients and crack in the egg. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Gradually add the remaining flour, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a warm cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.
- Spread the softened butter over the surface of the dough, then sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Roll the dough tightly from one end to the other to form a log. Slice into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking pan, cover, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown on top.
- While the rolls are baking, mix powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk to create a smooth glaze.
- As soon as your cinnamon rolls come out of the oven, drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls before serving.
Notes or Tips
For best results, make sure your milk is just warm enough to activate the yeast (between 100°F and 110°F). You can also add nuts or raisins to the filling for an extra layer of flavor. If you want to prep ahead, feel free to let the rolls rise in the refrigerator overnight for a delightful morning treat!
Cooking Techniques
Kneading dough helps develop gluten, which gives the rolls their structure. When letting the dough rise, look for a warm and draft-free environment to help it double in size. This process can also be enhanced by covering the dough with a damp cloth to retain moisture.
FAQ
Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. They can be thawed overnight in the fridge and warmed before serving.
What can I substitute for active dry yeast?
You can use instant yeast in place of active dry yeast, using the same amount. No need to proof it first—simply add it to your dry ingredients!
Conclusion
With this recipe for homemade cinnamon rolls, you can create a delightful batch that fills your home with the warm, cozy scent of baking goodness. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a sweet snack throughout the day, these rolls are a treat that everyone will love. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the simple joy of baking!