Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen. These delightful rolls are the epitome of comfort food, boasting a rich, sweet dough that’s incredibly soft and fluffy, generously swirled with a delicious cinnamon-sugar mixture. Topped with a creamy icing that melts into the warm rolls, each bite is a little slice of heaven. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent afternoon treat, these cinnamon rolls are sure to make your day a little sweeter.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk (for icing)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for icing)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt, mixing them together until well blended.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
- Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, using a wooden spoon to mix until a soft dough begins to form.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic to the touch.
- Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm location for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle roughly 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture generously on top.
- Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log and slice it into 12 equal pieces.
- Grease a baking pan and arrange the sliced rolls in it. Cover them with a towel and allow them to rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the aroma fills your kitchen.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until it reaches a smooth consistency.
- Once the rolls are golden and fragrant, withdraw them from the oven and drizzle the icing over the warm cinnamon rolls for a gooey finish.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra touch, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a lovely crunch.
- If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, feel free to increase the amount of ground cinnamon used.
- These rolls can be prepared the night before—just let them rise in the refrigerator overnight, then bake them fresh in the morning!
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough is a crucial step that develops gluten, giving your rolls that perfect fluffy texture. Ensure your kitchen is warm for rising, as a cozy environment encourages the yeast to work its magic, resulting in beautifully risen dough. If you’re unsure about the doneness of your rolls, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when the rolls are fully baked.
FAQ
Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls and let them rise in the fridge overnight. Just bake them fresh in the morning!
How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They can also be refrigerated for up to a week—just warm them briefly before enjoying!
Conclusion
These cinnamon rolls are more than just a sweet treat; they’re a warm embrace of nostalgia, bringing comfort and joy to any occasion. Once you take your first bite, you’ll understand why they’re dubbed “the best cinnamon rolls ever.” So roll up your sleeves, get baking, and indulge in these delightful treats that are sure to please everyone around your table!