Cinnamon Rolls
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Experience the delightful aroma and irresistible taste of homemade cinnamon rolls that will make your kitchen smell heavenly. With a soft and fluffy texture, swirls of sweet cinnamon filling, and a drizzle of creamy frosting, these rolls are perfect for breakfast or brunch. Your family and friends will be asking for the secret behind this delectable treat after just one bite!
Experience the delightful aroma and irresistible taste of homemade cinnamon rolls that will make your kitchen smell heavenly. With a soft and fluffy texture, swirls of sweet cinnamon filling, and a drizzle of creamy frosting, these rolls are perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Cinnamon rolls are a universally loved treat that can brighten up any occasion. Whether it's a cozy weekend brunch, a festive holiday gathering, or simply a weekday pick-me-up, these rolls are sure to impress. Their delightful aroma fills the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that draws everyone in. Serve them warm with a cup of coffee or tea, and watch as your family and friends savor every bite.
What makes these cinnamon rolls particularly special is their versatility. You can enjoy them plain or with a generous drizzle of creamy frosting, and they pair beautifully with various toppings like nuts or fresh fruit. Experiment by adding raisins or chopped apples to the filling for a delicious twist. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, they will quickly become a family favorite.
A Step-by-Step Guide
Making cinnamon rolls at home may seem intimidating, but with this step-by-step guide, you'll find it’s easier than you think. The process begins with preparing the dough, which needs time to rise and develop its fluffy texture. Follow each step with care, and soon you'll have a warm and fragrant batch of rolls ready to delight your taste buds.
The rising process is crucial; it allows the dough to become light and airy, leading to that perfect soft texture. Be patient and ensure you’re in a warm environment for optimum results. Once baked, the golden-brown rolls topped with velvety frosting are truly a sight to behold and a treat to taste.
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftover cinnamon rolls, no need to worry! These delicious treats can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, where they will last for up to a week. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature or warm them slightly before enjoying, as this will refresh their delightful texture and flavor.
You can also freeze cinnamon rolls for even longer preservation. After baking and cooling, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer bag. Frozen rolls can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave for a brief moment.
Ingredients
Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk, warmed
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Frosting
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Make sure to gather all the ingredients before you start.
Steps
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the warmed milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add melted butter, sugar, and eggs, mixing well. Gradually add flour and salt, kneading until smooth.
Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until combined.
Roll and Fill
Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the dough. Roll it tightly into a log and slice into 12 rolls.
Final Rise
Place the rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise for an additional 30 minutes.
Bake the Rolls
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Make the Frosting
While the rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, softened butter, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Frost and Serve
Once the rolls are done, let them cool slightly before drizzling with frosting. Serve warm.
Enjoy your homemade cinnamon rolls!
Nutritional Information
These cinnamon rolls, while indulgent, can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. A typical roll contains a good mix of carbohydrates from the flour and sugars, along with a touch of protein from the eggs and butter. For a healthier option, consider using whole wheat flour or reducing the sugar in the filling without compromising on the taste.
Pairing these rolls with a side of fresh fruit or a serving of yogurt can also boost their nutritional profile. This way, you can enjoy a sweet treat while still incorporating some nutrient-dense foods into your meal.
Variations to Try
If you're feeling adventurous, try customizing your cinnamon rolls with various flavors. Adding a touch of cocoa powder to the filling can create a delightful chocolate cinnamon roll. You can also experiment with flavored extracts, like almond or maple, to enhance the frosting's profile.
For a seasonal twist, consider incorporating pumpkin puree into the dough during the fall months or adding crushed peppermint candy to the frosting during the winter holidays. These variations will keep your cinnamon roll experience fresh and exciting all year round.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Cinnamon Rolls
Experience the delightful aroma and irresistible taste of homemade cinnamon rolls that will make your kitchen smell heavenly. With a soft and fluffy texture, swirls of sweet cinnamon filling, and a drizzle of creamy frosting, these rolls are perfect for breakfast or brunch. Your family and friends will be asking for the secret behind this delectable treat after just one bite!
Created by: Vanessa Doyle
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 rolls
What You'll Need
Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk, warmed
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Frosting
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the warmed milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add melted butter, sugar, and eggs, mixing well. Gradually add flour and salt, kneading until smooth.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until combined.
Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the dough. Roll it tightly into a log and slice into 12 rolls.
Place the rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise for an additional 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
While the rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, softened butter, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Once the rolls are done, let them cool slightly before drizzling with frosting. Serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 15g