Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients for Cinnamon Rolls

Here’s everything you’ll need to create your own batch of cinnamon perfection:

For the dough:

• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the cinnamon filling:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the vanilla icing:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Timing

• Preparation time: 25 minutes
• Cooking time: 25 minutes
• Rise Time: 1 hours: 30 minutes
• Total time: 2 hours: 20 minutes

How to Make Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the dough: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg, stirring until a dough forms.

2. Knead and rise: Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, then place it in a greased bowl. Cover and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours until it doubles in size.

3. Make the filling: Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a 15×9-inch rectangle and spread softened butter over it. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top.

4. Roll and slice: Roll the dough tightly from one long side to the other, forming a log. Cut into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.

5. Second rise and bake: Cover the rolls and let them rise again for 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F, then bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

The Secret to a Gooey Cinnamon Roll Filling

To get that gooey center, it’s all about using enough butter in the filling and not overbaking the rolls. You want the rolls to be just lightly golden on top but still soft inside. Spreading the butter evenly ensures the sugar and cinnamon melt into a rich, sticky filling.

Tips for Baking Perfectly Golden Cinnamon Rolls

1- Don’t skimp on rise time: Patience is key. Letting the dough rise fully will result in soft and airy rolls.

2- Check the temperature: Your oven should be preheated to exactly 350°F for even baking.

3- Use fresh yeast: If your yeast doesn’t foam during the first step, your dough won’t rise properly.

How to Make Creamy Vanilla Icing for Cinnamon Rolls

To top off your rolls, mix powdered sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and milk in a bowl. Stir until smooth and pour the icing over the warm rolls as soon as they come out of the oven. The icing will melt into the rolls, adding an extra layer of sweetness.

Variations: Vegan, Gluten-Free, and Overnight Cinnamon Rolls

1- Vegan: Swap the butter for plant-based alternatives and use almond milk in the dough and icing.

2- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking to maintain a soft texture.

3- Overnight: Prepare the rolls the night before and let them rise overnight in the fridge. In the morning, pop them in the oven for a freshly baked treat.

Troubleshooting Common Cinnamon Roll Baking Mistakes

• Dense Rolls: This usually happens if the dough hasn’t risen enough. Make sure your yeast is active and give the dough plenty of time to rise.
• Overcooked Rolls: Baking too long can dry out the rolls. Keep an eye on them, and pull them out when they’re just golden brown.

How to Store and Reheat Cinnamon Rolls for Freshness

To store, place the rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze them. To reheat, pop a roll in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore its softness.

Creative Toppings and Add-ins for Your Cinnamon Rolls

Feeling adventurous? Try adding crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts, or drizzle some caramel sauce over the top for an extra indulgent treat. You can also mix raisins or chocolate chips into the filling for a fun twist.

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Cinnamon Rolls

Cinnamon rolls pair perfectly with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a heartier meal, serve them alongside scrambled eggs, bacon, or even a fresh fruit salad.

How to Make Cinnamon Rolls Ahead of Time

If you’re prepping for a special occasion, you can make the dough the day before, refrigerate it overnight, and bake the rolls fresh in the morning. Just let them come to room temperature before baking.

Nutritional Information

Per serving:

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Protein: 5g
• Sugar: 25g

Conclusion

There’s nothing like the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls to make your day extra special. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this easy recipe guarantees soft, gooey rolls that everyone will love.