Introduction
Cinnamon rolls are a beloved treat, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. With their warm cinnamon filling and soft, pillowy texture, they offer a delightful experience for the taste buds. This recipe guides you through making cinnamon rolls from scratch, ensuring that each step is simple and approachable, even for novice bakers.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
For the dough:
– all-purpose flour: 4 cups
– granulated sugar: 1/3 cup
– active dry yeast: 2 1/4 teaspoons
– milk: 1 cup
– unsalted butter: 1/2 cup
– eggs: 2
– salt: 1 teaspoon
For the filling:
– brown sugar: 1 cup
– ground cinnamon: 2 tablespoons
– unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (softened)
For the frosting:
– cream cheese: 4 ounces (softened)
– unsalted butter: 1/4 cup (softened)
– powdered sugar: 1 cup
– vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
– milk: 2 tablespoons (optional for consistency)
Prep Time
The preparation time for these cinnamon rolls is approximately 30 minutes. This includes mixing the dough and preparing the filling.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time is about 25 to 30 minutes. The total time from start to finish, including rising and baking, is around 2 hours. This recipe yields about 12 delicious cinnamon rolls, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Enjoy the process of baking and the delicious results that follow!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it foams. Then, add melted butter, an egg, and salt. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Step 4: Make the Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by mixing brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter in a bowl until well combined.
Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
Step 6: Spread the Filling
Spread the prepared filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, making sure to cover all edges.
Step 7: Roll the Dough
Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seam to seal it.
Step 8: Cut the Rolls
Using a sharp knife or a dough cutter, slice the log into even pieces, about 1.5 inches thick.
Step 9: Arrange the Rolls
Place the sliced rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover with a cloth and let them rise for another 30-40 minutes.
Step 10: Bake the Rolls
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Step 11: Prepare the Glaze
While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.
Step 12: Glaze the Rolls
Once the cinnamon rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and drench them with the glaze while they are still warm.
Notes
Note 1:
Make sure the milk is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
Note 2:
You can let the dough rise in a slightly warm oven if your kitchen is cold.
Note 3:
For extra flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or raisins to the filling.
Note 4:
These cinnamon rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days.
Note 5:
For freezing, allow the rolls to cool completely, then wrap them tightly. They can be frozen for up to a month.
