Introduction
Welcome to the world of warm and gooey cinnamon rolls that can be lovingly whipped up in just one hour! There’s nothing quite like the enticing aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen, making your home feel cozy and inviting. These rolls are incredibly quick to prepare and are perfect for weekend breakfasts or a sweet treat any time of the day. With their tender dough and rich filling, they are bound to delight anyone who takes a bite. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get baking!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (for icing)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish, ensuring it’s ready for those golden rolls.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir together to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, and eggs until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until a soft dough begins to form. Don’t worry if it’s a little sticky!
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently for about 1-2 minutes, just until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 1/4 inch thick, making sure to keep it as even as possible.
- Spread additional melted butter generously over the surface of the dough, then sprinkle an even layer of brown sugar and cinnamon across it, creating a sweet cinnamon dream.
- Starting from one end, roll the dough tightly into a log, ensuring that the filling stays put, and then cut it into 12 equal slices with a sharp knife.
- Place the cinnamon roll slices in the prepared baking dish and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let them rise for about 10 minutes while you savor the sweet anticipation.
- Pop the rolls into the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown and your kitchen smells like a bakery.
- As the rolls bake, prepare the icing by whisking together the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until you achieve a smooth, luscious consistency.
- Once the rolls are out of the oven and still warm, drizzle the delightful icing over them and serve to eager friends and family!
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or a handful of raisins to the filling before rolling. If you prefer a cream cheese icing, feel free to mix in softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and milk for a tangy twist. These rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can also be stored in an airtight container for up to two days.
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough lightly is crucial for developing just the right texture – too much kneading can lead to tough rolls. To roll the dough evenly, try to maintain even pressure with your rolling pin and take your time. Letting the rolls rise for even just a few minutes allows for an airy, fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.
FAQ
Can I make cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls up to the point of baking and refrigerate them overnight. Just let them come to room temperature and rise a bit before baking.
What can I do if I have leftover cinnamon rolls?
These delicious rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Simply reheat them in the microwave or oven until warm.
Conclusion
There you have it—your very own quick and delightful cinnamon rolls! Each bite offers a deliciously sweet experience, filled with that comforting hint of cinnamon. What a perfect way to start your day or to surprise your loved ones with a homemade treat! Now that you have this simple recipe in your baking repertoire, get ready to spread the joy of cinnamon rolls far and wide!