Cinnamon Rolls
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Experience the bliss of homemade Cinnamon Rolls that are soft, fluffy, and oozing with sweet, gooey cinnamon filling. Topped with a creamy glaze, these delightfully spiced rolls are perfect for breakfast or dessert, making every bite a moment to savor. Watch as your friends and family flock to the kitchen, eager to get in on the secret behind this irresistible treat!
Experience the bliss of homemade Cinnamon Rolls that are soft, fluffy, and oozing with sweet, gooey cinnamon filling. Topped with a creamy glaze, these delightfully spiced rolls are perfect for breakfast or dessert, making every bite a moment to savor.
A Delicious Breakfast Treat
There's something magical about starting your day with a warm, freshly baked cinnamon roll. The sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone rising from their slumber in anticipation. These homemade cinnamon rolls are not just a pastry; they are an experience, a comforting hug for your taste buds. Serve them alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea, and you've got the perfect morning companion that will invigorate your spirit for the day ahead.
Cinnamon rolls are versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time of day. Whether it's a leisurely weekend brunch or a cozy dessert after dinner, these rolls fit seamlessly into any occasion. Their fluffy texture, combined with the rich, gooey filling, creates a flavor profile that's unparalleled. Once you make them yourself, you may never want to buy pre-made rolls again!
The Art of Rolling
Rolling the dough is a crucial step in achieving that classic, spiraled look that makes cinnamon rolls so appealing. Proper technique ensures even distribution of the filling and a beautiful rise during baking. Ensure that your dough is rolled out into a perfect rectangle for optimal results—this helps in achieving uniform rolls that bake evenly, offering that delightful balance between soft and chewy.
Once you've added the filling, rolling it tightly is critical. A loose roll can lead to uneven baking and a less-than-perfect presentation. Don't rush this step; take your time to roll the dough snugly. You want each slice to reveal a beautiful swirl of cinnamon and sugar, making every bite a delicious revelation.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If there's any chance you have leftover cinnamon rolls, you're in for a treat the next day! To store them, place the rolls in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and keep them at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the cooled rolls in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking, and they can last for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy a roll, reheating is easy. Simply pop them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or for a crispy exterior, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Add a drizzle of glaze just before serving to refresh them for a delightful experience that feels just like the day they were made!
Ingredients
Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp salt
Filling
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Glaze
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. Add melted butter, sugar, eggs, and salt, then gradually mix in flour until a dough forms.
Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
Make the Filling
In a bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter until blended.
Roll and Fill
Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, then roll tightly into a log and slice into 12 rolls.
Bake
Place the rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25 minutes or until golden.
Prepare the Glaze
While the rolls cool, mix powdered sugar, cream cheese, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.
Cinnamon Roll Variations
While the classic cinnamon roll is undeniably delicious, there are countless variations that can elevate your baking game. Consider adding a twist of orange zest to the dough for a citrusy fragrance that enhances the sweetness of the filling. You could also experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom, which marry beautifully with cinnamon for a more complex flavor.
For those who enjoy a bit of indulgence, try adding mini chocolate chips or nuts to the filling. These additions create delightful surprises with every bite, appealing to chocolate lovers and those seeking a crunchy texture. Don't shy away from getting creative; the beauty of cinnamon rolls lies in their adaptability to suit various tastes!
Serving Suggestions
To take your homemade cinnamon rolls to the next level, consider serving them with a side of fresh fruit or whipped cream. A light and tangy fruit salad complements the sweetness of the rolls, offering a refreshing balance that enhances the overall experience. For a decadent touch, you might choose to serve them alongside dollops of rich mascarpone or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
Hosting a brunch? Set up a cinnamon roll bar inviting guests to customize their rolls with assorted toppings. Provide options like toasted coconut, pecans, extra cinnamon, or even flavored glazes. This interactive element adds fun and personalization to the meal, ensuring that everyone leaves with a satisfied smile!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and fill the rolls, then cover and refrigerate them overnight. Bake them in the morning for fresh rolls.
→ What can I use instead of cream cheese for the glaze?
You can use Greek yogurt or simply omit it for a lighter glaze.
Cinnamon Rolls
Experience the bliss of homemade Cinnamon Rolls that are soft, fluffy, and oozing with sweet, gooey cinnamon filling. Topped with a creamy glaze, these delightfully spiced rolls are perfect for breakfast or dessert, making every bite a moment to savor. Watch as your friends and family flock to the kitchen, eager to get in on the secret behind this irresistible treat!
Created by: Madeline Archer
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 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp salt
Filling
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Glaze
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How-To Steps
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. Add melted butter, sugar, eggs, and salt, then gradually mix in flour until a dough forms.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
In a bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter until blended.
Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, then roll tightly into a log and slice into 12 rolls.
Place the rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25 minutes or until golden.
While the rolls cool, mix powdered sugar, cream cheese, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 65g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 30g