Cinnamon Roll
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Delight in the warm, gooey goodness of homemade cinnamon rolls, perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat.
There's nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the house. This recipe brings together the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of sugar, creating a comforting treat that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee or as a delightful dessert. Whether you enjoy them plain or frosted, these rolls are sure to become a favorite!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Soft, fluffy texture that pulls apart beautifully
- Warm, aromatic blend of cinnamon and sugar
- Customizable with nuts or raisins for added flavor
The Perfect Breakfast Treat
Cinnamon rolls are more than just a delicious pastry; they are a warm hug on a plate. Whether enjoyed on a lazy Sunday morning or as a delightful afternoon snack, these rolls bring comfort and joy. The soft, pillowy texture paired with the sweet, aromatic filling makes them a breakfast favorite for many. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients, you can create a bakery-style treat right in your own kitchen.
Imagine the smell of cinnamon wafting through your home as these rolls bake. It's enough to make anyone feel cozy and at ease. Not only are they perfect for sharing with family and friends, but they also make a great addition to brunch gatherings or holiday celebrations. Everyone loves a homemade cinnamon roll, and your loved ones will appreciate the effort you put into making them from scratch.
Customization Options
One of the best parts about making cinnamon rolls is the ability to customize them to your liking. While the classic recipe is undeniably delicious, you can easily elevate it with a few simple additions. Consider folding in some chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for an extra crunch. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries also add a delightful sweetness that complements the cinnamon filling beautifully.
For those who love a little extra flavor, try adding a dash of nutmeg or cardamom to the filling. These spices can enhance the overall taste profile, giving your cinnamon rolls a unique twist. Don't be afraid to experiment with different frostings as well; a maple glaze or a spiced cream cheese frosting can take your rolls to the next level.
Storing and Reheating
After baking a batch of cinnamon rolls, you might wonder how to store any leftovers. If you have any rolls that aren't devoured immediately, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for about a week. To maintain their fluffy texture, it’s best to reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave.
When you're ready to enjoy your leftover cinnamon rolls, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm them for about 10 minutes. This will help refresh their texture and revive that deliciously gooey filling. You can also drizzle a bit of fresh frosting over the top before serving, making them taste almost as good as the day they were baked.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious cinnamon rolls:
For the Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
For the Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)
Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to start making your cinnamon rolls!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your perfect cinnamon rolls:
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Add the melted butter, eggs, and salt.
Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Make the Filling
In a bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
Assemble the Rolls
Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle. Spread the filling mixture evenly over the dough. Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces.
Bake the Rolls
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Prepare the Frosting
While the rolls are baking, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Adjust the milk for desired consistency.
Frost and Serve
Once baked and still warm, drizzle the frosting over the cinnamon rolls. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Serve warm for the best experience. Enjoy your homemade cinnamon rolls!
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls
To ensure your cinnamon rolls turn out perfectly every time, make sure your yeast is fresh and active. If in doubt, perform a quick test by mixing the yeast with warm water and sugar; if it bubbles up after a few minutes, you’re good to go. Additionally, when kneading the dough, don’t rush the process. Kneading develops gluten, which gives the rolls their desirable texture, so take your time and enjoy the process.
Another helpful tip is to create a warm environment for the dough to rise. You can do this by placing the bowl in a slightly warmed oven or covering it with a warm towel. The dough should double in size during this time, which is crucial for achieving fluffy rolls.
Serving Suggestions
Cinnamon rolls are delightful on their own, but they can also be paired with various accompaniments to enhance your breakfast experience. Serve them alongside a hot cup of coffee or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice for a classic brunch combo. For a heartier meal, consider adding scrambled eggs or crispy bacon to your plate, creating a balanced breakfast that satisfies all cravings.
Additionally, you can serve your cinnamon rolls with fruit preserves or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. Fruit toppings like sliced strawberries or blueberries provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet cinnamon flavor, making your meal even more enjoyable.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the rolls and refrigerate them overnight before baking. Just allow them to come to room temperature before baking.
→ Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! Bake the rolls, let them cool, and then freeze them in an airtight container. Reheat them in the oven when you're ready to enjoy.
→ What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?
You can use mascarpone or Greek yogurt as a substitute for cream cheese.
→ Is it necessary to use active dry yeast?
You can use instant yeast as well; just skip the proofing step with warm milk.
Cinnamon Roll
Delight in the warm, gooey goodness of homemade cinnamon rolls, perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat.
Created by: Jasmine Porter
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 rolls
What You'll Need
For the Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
For the Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Add the melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
In a bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle. Spread the filling mixture evenly over the dough. Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces. Place in a greased baking pan.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
While the rolls are baking, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Adjust the milk for desired consistency.
Once baked and still warm, drizzle the frosting over the cinnamon rolls. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g