Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. These golden brown beauties, with their soft, pillowy texture and sweet, gooey center, are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with family and friends, they’re sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. Paired with a creamy icing that melts into every swirl, these cinnamon rolls are a delightful addition to any breakfast or brunch spread.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 tbsp cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy – this step is crucial for activating the yeast!
- Add the melted butter, granulated sugar, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir well until everything is thoroughly combined.
- Gradually incorporate the flour, mixing until you form a soft dough. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- When the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the dough is ready, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle measuring 16×12 inches.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough. Sprinkle the brown sugar and ground cinnamon generously on top.
- Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Use a sharp knife to cut the log into 12 equal slices.
- Arrange the sliced rolls in a greased baking dish, ensuring there’s a little space between each roll. Cover and let them rise again for 30 minutes.
- After they’ve risen, bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re beautifully golden brown.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the creamy icing. In a mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, softened cream cheese, vanilla extract, and just enough milk to achieve your desired consistency – aim for silky smooth!
- As soon as the rolls emerge from the oven, spread the luscious icing generously over the warm rolls. This allows the icing to melt into the cracks and crevices, creating an irresistible treat.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of warmth, try adding a dash of nutmeg or a splash of maple extract to your icing. You can also customize your cinnamon rolls by adding nuts or raisins to the filling before rolling them up!
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough is essential to develop gluten, which gives the rolls their incredible texture. Ensure your dough is sufficiently kneaded by checking if it’s smooth and bounces back when poked. Also, allowing proper rising time is crucial; it helps the rolls become airy and light. Don’t rush this process!
FAQ
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and place it in the refrigerator after kneading. Just let it sit out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to a month. Just thaw and reheat for a few minutes in the oven.
Conclusion
Every bite of these cinnamon rolls offers a warm hug from the inside out. With their heavenly taste and fragrant aroma, they’ll quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy them fresh from the oven, and let the joy of baking fill your home with love and warmth. Happy baking!