Introduction
Who can resist the warm aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen? These Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that will transport you straight to that cozy bakery vibe. With their soft, pillowy texture and a rich, gooey filling, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet afternoon snack. Once you try them, you’ll be tempted to make them again and again!
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F to 115°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 3 1/4 to 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, melted butter, salt, egg, and the frothy yeast mixture until well combined.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 16×12 inches.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and ground cinnamon generously on top.
- Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log and slice it into 12 even rolls.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, 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 are golden brown and fragrant.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing by mixing the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the warm icing over the top before serving.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch, you can add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for some crunch. If you have leftovers (they’re rare!), store them in an airtight container for up to three days at room temperature. You can also reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds for that just-baked taste!
Cooking Techniques
Working with yeast can feel intimidating, but it’s all about patience. Make sure your milk is warm, but not hot, to avoid killing the yeast. Kneading the dough helps develop gluten, giving your rolls that beautiful soft texture. Don’t rush the rising times; they are essential for fluffy rolls that melt in your mouth!
FAQ
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it after the first rise. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
What should I serve with these cinnamon rolls?
They’re delightful on their own but pair well with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk!
Can I freeze the rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the rolls before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw them overnight in the fridge and warm them back up in the oven.
Conclusion
Your mornings are about to get a lot sweeter with these Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls! Each bite is a delicious blend of warm spices and cream cheese icing that can make any day feel a little bit special. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of creating this irresistible treat. Happy baking!