Why Make This Recipe
Cinnamon rolls are a delicious treat that can brighten up any morning. They are soft, warm, and filled with the sweet aroma of cinnamon and sugar. Making them from scratch is simple and fun, and the end result is a delightful homemade breakfast or dessert that everyone will enjoy. There’s nothing quite like pulling a tray of freshly baked cinnamon rolls from the oven, making them a perfect addition for family gatherings or a cozy weekend brunch.
How to Make Cinnamon Rolls
Making cinnamon rolls at home is easier than you might think. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up a batch that will make your kitchen smell wonderful. Here’s how to make them:
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- In a bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg to the flour and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until smooth.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Roll the dough into a rectangle and spread softened butter over the surface.
- Sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll the dough tightly, slice into individual rolls, and place them in a greased baking dish.
- Let rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- For the frosting, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a bowl and mix until smooth.
- Drizzle the frosting over the warm cinnamon rolls before serving.
How to Serve Cinnamon Rolls
Cinnamon rolls are best served warm, straight from the oven. You can enjoy them plain, or for a special touch, drizzle the cream cheese frosting over the top. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. If you want to get creative, try adding some chopped nuts or raisins on top before baking.
How to Store Cinnamon Rolls
If you have leftover cinnamon rolls, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer periods. Just make sure to seal them well. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave.
Tips to Make Cinnamon Rolls
- Make sure your milk is warm, but not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- Knead the dough until it is smooth for the best texture.
- If you want extra gooey rolls, consider adding a layer of melted butter between the dough and filling.
- Sprinkle some chopped nuts or raisins for added flavor and texture.
Variation
You can try different flavor combinations for your cinnamon rolls! Consider adding chocolate chips for a sweet twist or using nutmeg instead of cinnamon for a different spice profile. You can also experiment with different frosting flavors, such as chocolate or maple.
FAQs
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, you can use whole wheat flour. However, the texture might be a bit denser. You may want to mix it with some all-purpose flour for a lighter roll.
Q: Can I make cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and roll them up the night before. Just place them in the fridge after shaping, and let them rise before baking in the morning.
Q: What if I don’t have active dry yeast?
A: You can use instant yeast instead, as it doesn’t require proofing. Just mix it directly with your dry ingredients.
Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed Warm, not hot
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Filling Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Method
Preparation & Dough Rising
- In a bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg to the flour and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until smooth.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Roll & Bake
- Roll the dough into a rectangle and spread softened butter over the surface.
- Sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll the dough tightly, slice into individual rolls, and place them in a greased baking dish.
- Let rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Frosting
- For the frosting, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a bowl and mix until smooth.
- Drizzle the frosting over the warm cinnamon rolls before serving.