Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the warm, sweet aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen. These easy homemade cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack any time of day. With their pillowy texture, rich cinnamon filling, and luscious icing drizzled on top, they are sure to bring comfort and joy to your table. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this recipe is a surefire way to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 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
- 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Stir well to combine.
- In a small saucepan, gently heat the whole milk and melted butter until warm, but not hot to the touch.
- Pour the warm milk mixture into the dry ingredients, then add in the eggs. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Gradually incorporate the remaining flour, kneading the dough until it forms a soft, elastic ball.
- Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once risen, punch down the dough gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface of the rolled-out dough. Then sprinkle the brown sugar and ground cinnamon evenly on top.
- Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the cinnamon roll pieces in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once risen, bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing by mixing the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- As soon as the cinnamon rolls come out of the oven, drizzle the icing generously over the top while they are still warm. Enjoy!
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch, you can add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling for added texture and flavor. If you want to prepare these rolls ahead of time, try assembling them the night before, covering them tightly, and letting them rise in the fridge overnight. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before baking!
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough is essential for developing gluten, which gives the cinnamon rolls their delightful chewiness. Make sure not to rush the rising times; allowing the dough to double will result in fluffy rolls. If your kitchen is cool, consider turning on the oven for a minute or two to create a warm environment for rising.
FAQ
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, instant yeast works perfectly in this recipe and doesn’t require proofing.
How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Conclusion
These easy homemade cinnamon rolls are not just a recipe; they are an invitation to indulge in the simple pleasures of baking and sharing. Perfectly fluffy, with that comforting cinnamon-sugar filling and creamy icing, they are bound to become a family favorite. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s create some sweet memories together in the kitchen!