Description
Learn how to make homemade cinnamon rolls from scratch with this simple and delicious recipe. These rolls are irresistibly soft and fluffy, with a warm cinnamon-sugar filling and a creamy glaze that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this step-by-step guide will show you how to create perfect cinnamon rolls every time. With just a few basic ingredients and a little patience, you’ll have a batch of warm, gooey cinnamon rolls to enjoy for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat. Embrace the joy of baking and create a homemade version that’s far better than store-bought!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup warm water (for activating the yeast)
Ingredients for the Cinnamon Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Ingredients for the Icing:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and a pinch of sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures the yeast is active.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Add the warm milk to the mixture.
- Make the Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, followed by the activated yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is smooth and soft but not too sticky.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
- Let the Dough Rise: Grease a large bowl with a little butter or oil, place the dough inside, and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling
- Make the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Shape the Cinnamon Rolls
- Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll the dough out onto a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle about 12×18 inches.
- Spread the Filling: Spread the cinnamon sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border on all sides.
- Roll Up the Dough: Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough up into a tight log.
- Slice the Rolls: Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the dough into 12 equal-sized pieces. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring they’re close together but not touching.
Step 4: Second Rise
- Let the Rolls Rise: Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they’ve puffed up and are touching each other.
Step 5: Bake the Cinnamon Rolls
- Preheat the Oven: While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the Rolls: Once the rolls have risen, place them in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them after 15 minutes to ensure they don’t get too brown.
Step 6: Make the Icing
- Prepare the Icing: While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if it’s too thick or more powdered sugar if it’s too runny.
Step 7: Frost and Serve
- Frost the Rolls: Once the cinnamon rolls are baked and slightly cooled, drizzle the icing over the top while they are still warm.
- Serve: Let the rolls sit for a few minutes to allow the icing to set slightly. Then, serve warm and enjoy your homemade cinnamon rolls!
Notes
- Dough Rising Tips:
- Ensure the water is warm (about 110°F or 43°C) when activating the yeast. Too hot or too cold water can prevent the yeast from working properly.
- If you don’t have time for the dough to rise in a warm spot, you can place the bowl in your oven with the light on for a makeshift warm environment.
- Texture Adjustments:
- If the dough feels too sticky, add more flour, but do so gradually. You want the dough to be soft, but not overly dry.
- Kneading is essential for developing the gluten in the dough. If you skip this step, your rolls may turn out dense rather than fluffy.
- Filling Variations:
- If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can increase the amount of brown sugar or add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the butter.
- For a more decadent filling, consider adding chopped pecans, walnuts, or raisins to the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Freezing the Rolls:
- To Freeze Before Baking: After you’ve sliced and arranged the rolls in the baking dish, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and freeze. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and then bake as instructed the following morning.
- To Freeze After Baking: If you have leftovers, you can freeze the baked rolls. Once cooled, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat in the oven for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
- Icing Adjustments:
- If you want a thicker icing, use less milk or more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.
- For a richer flavor, you can add a little cream cheese to the icing for a tangy twist, or even a splash of vanilla extract or cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Baking Time:
- Baking times may vary based on your oven, so start checking the rolls after 15 minutes. They should be golden brown on top, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- If the tops of your rolls are browning too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil for the last few minutes of baking.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these homemade cinnamon rolls warm with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for the ultimate comfort food experience.
- For a special touch, top the rolls with a sprinkle of chopped nuts, or even drizzle with caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- 25 minutes:
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cinnamon roll
- Calories: 300-350 calories
- Sugar: 20-25 grams
- Sodium: 200-250 mg
- Fat: 12-15 grams
- Saturated Fat: 6-8 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 2-4 grams
- Carbohydrates: 40-45 grams
- Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Protein: 4-5 grams
- Cholesterol: 30-40 mg
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