Few things compare to the comforting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. These soft, fluffy rolls are filled with a sweet and spicy cinnamon-sugar mixture and topped with a luscious vanilla icing, making them the perfect indulgence for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying your hand at baking for the first time, this recipe will guide you to create cinnamon rolls that are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
- In a small saucepan, warm the milk over low heat until it’s warm to the touch but not hot.
- Add the melted butter and eggs to the mixture. Using a wooden spoon or a stand mixer with a dough hook, mix until the dough begins to come together.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels overly sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour, adding one tablespoon at a time until the texture improves.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling:
- While the dough is rising, prepare the cinnamon filling.
- In a small bowl, blend the softened butter with brown sugar and ground cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and unified.
- Assemble the Cinnamon Rolls:
- After the dough has expanded, gently deflate it to let out the air bubbles.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about 18×12 inches.
- Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
- Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces and place them, cut side up, in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Second Rise and Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with a towel and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes until they have puffed up.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through.
- Prepare the Icing:
- While the cinnamon rolls are baking, prepare the icing.
- Combine the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl, whisking until the mixture is creamy and uniform.
- If you prefer a thicker icing, add more powdered sugar; for a thinner glaze, add more milk.
- Finish and Serve:
- Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before drizzling the icing over the top.
Conclusion:
These homemade cinnamon rolls are the perfect blend of sweet, soft, and spicy, making them a treat that everyone will love. The fluffy dough paired with the rich cinnamon filling and topped with a smooth vanilla icing creates a decadent pastry that’s hard to resist. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a delightful dessert, these cinnamon rolls are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. Give this recipe a try, and experience the joy of freshly baked cinnamon rolls right in your own kitchen!