Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. These easy homemade cinnamon rolls are a true delight, offering a tender, fluffy texture and a delicious swirl of cinnamon and sweetness. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon treat, they are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Once you get the hang of this recipe, you’ll be making them on repeat!
Ingredients
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 ½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (for icing)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy – this means your yeast is active and ready to help your dough rise!
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Add in the large egg and mix until well combined.
- Pour the frothy yeast mixture into the butter mixture, stirring until everything is well blended.
- Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough begins to form. You might not need the entire amount, so add it slowly.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This is the magic moment!
- Once doubled, roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle, approximately 12×18 inches.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and ground cinnamon all over, creating a sweet, aromatic layer.
- Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log and cut it into 12 equal slices.
- Arrange the cinnamon rolls in a greased baking dish and let them rise again for about 30 minutes. This second rise will create those fluffy layers you love!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the rolls are rising.
- Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown and your kitchen smells like heaven!
- While they bake, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk in a bowl to create a smooth icing.
- Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle that creamy icing over them while they are still warm, allowing it to melt into the cracks and crevices.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch, feel free to add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling for added texture and flavor. Ensure your dough rises in a warm, draft-free area for the best results. If you’re short on time, you can prepare the dough the night before, let it rise in the fridge, and bake in the morning!
Cooking Techniques
Kneading is essential to develop gluten in the dough, which makes your rolls light and airy. When rolling out the dough, make sure your surface and rolling pin are well-floured to prevent sticking. Additionally, monitor the baking closely to avoid over-baking; they should be golden and slightly firm to the touch.
FAQ
Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the rolls, place them in the baking dish, cover them, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them rise for 30 minutes before baking.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to soften them before serving.
Conclusion
Making homemade cinnamon rolls is an experience that fills your home with warmth and your heart with joy. With these easy steps, you too can create a batch of fluffy, sweet treats that are perfect for any occasion. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the delightful process, and enjoy these cinnamon rolls warm out of the oven, drizzled with luscious icing. Happy baking!