Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen. These one-hour cinnamon rolls are perfect for a cozy weekend breakfast or a sweet surprise for your family on a weekday morning. Soft, fluffy, and generously swirled with a delectable cinnamon and brown sugar filling, these rolls are then drizzled with a creamy icing that takes them over the top. Get ready to indulge in a treat that feels like a warm hug in pastry form!
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the active dry yeast and warm milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes or until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, melted butter, salt, and egg until well blended. Add the frothy yeast mixture and stir until thoroughly combined.
- Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm area for 20 minutes.
- As the dough rises, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Evenly spread the softened butter over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle the ground cinnamon and brown sugar generously on top.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice it into 12 equal rolls.
- Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them with a towel, and let them rise for an additional 15 minutes.
- Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and beautifully puffed.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing by mixing together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the warm icing generously over them while they’re still hot.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra touch, add chopped nuts or raisins into the filling before rolling the dough!
- If you want to prepare these cinnamon rolls ahead of time, you can refrigerate the rolls after the second rise and bake them right before serving.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze them for longer storage.
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough is essential for developing gluten, which gives the rolls their airy structure. Make sure to flour your surface well to prevent sticking, and don’t rush the rising times as this is key to achieving that pillowy texture. When rolling the dough, apply even pressure to create a tight log to ensure perfect spirals of cinnamon goodness in every bite!
FAQ
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Absolutely! You can use instant yeast—just skip the step of proofing it in warm milk.
What can I do if I don’t have milk?
You can substitute with any non-dairy milk or even water, though the flavor may vary slightly.
Can I add cream cheese to the icing?
Certainly! For a richer icing, blend in a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese with the powdered sugar and milk for a tangy twist.
Conclusion
These one-hour cinnamon rolls bring a delightful sweetness that can brighten any day. With a fluffy texture and a warmly spiced filling, they’re sure to become a beloved recipe in your household. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or enjoying them with a good cup of coffee, each bite is a reminder of the joy found in homemade treats. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves and enjoy creating these cinnamon-scented beauties!