If you’re seeking a delightful treat that envelops your senses in warmth and sweetness, look no further than this cinnamon roll recipe. These heavenly rolls are soft, fluffy, and bursting with the rich flavor of cinnamon and sugar. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dessert, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. Prepare to impress your family and friends with these mouthwatering cinnamon rolls that are deceptively simple to make!
Ingredients You Will Need
Before diving into the preparation, it’s essential to gather the ingredients that will make these cinnamon rolls truly scrumptious. Here’s a comprehensive list:
For the Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
For the Cinnamon Filling
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s get started with the preparation of these delightful cinnamon rolls. Follow these steps for perfect results.
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a small saucepan, warm the milk until it is just lukewarm. Remove from heat and sprinkle the yeast and a pinch of sugar over the milk. Let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs.
- Mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour until you achieve the right consistency.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Make the Filling
While the dough is rising, you can prepare the cinnamon filling.
- In a medium bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Set the filling aside until the dough is ready to be rolled out.
3. Roll and Fill the Dough
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 16×24 inches.
- Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
- Slice the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.
4. Second Rise
Cover the rolls with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes, or until they have puffed up.
5. Bake the Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
6. Prepare the Frosting
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
7. Frost the Rolls
Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls. This will allow the frosting to melt into the rolls, creating a delightful glaze.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls
Here are some tips to ensure your cinnamon rolls turn out perfect every time:
- Use Fresh Yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast. Fresh yeast is crucial for achieving the best rise.
- Don’t Rush the Rising: Allow enough time for both rises. This is key for soft and fluffy rolls.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips to the filling for a different twist.
- Store Properly: Keep any leftover rolls in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
This cinnamon roll recipe is truly pure heaven. With its soft, fluffy texture and rich cinnamon flavor, it is bound to become a cherished recipe in your home. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save them for later, these rolls will bring a smile to anyone who tries them. Baking can be a rewarding experience, and this recipe showcases how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Happy baking!