Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of homemade cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy breakfast or indulging in a sweet afternoon treat, these soft and gooey rolls are like a warm hug for your taste buds. With a rich filling of buttery brown sugar and fragrant cinnamon, topped with a silky cream cheese frosting, these cinnamon rolls are sure to become a cherished family favorite. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this delightful baking adventure!
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to creating the ultimate homemade 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 whole milk
- 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 Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours (includes rising time)
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a small saucepan, gently warm the milk over low heat until it reaches about 110°F. Remove it from the heat and stir in the yeast along with a pinch of sugar. Allow this mixture to sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs.
- Mix everything together until a dough starts to form, then turn it out onto a floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when the rolls are ready.
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle measuring approximately 16×10 inches.
- Spread the softened butter evenly across the surface of the dough. Then, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl and sprinkle it generously over the butter.
- Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log, pinching the seam to seal it closed.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 equal pieces. Arrange these delightful spirals in a greased baking dish.
- Cover the rolls and let them rise for another 30 minutes, allowing them to puff up beautifully.
- Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, until they are golden brown and your kitchen smells divine.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting is creamy and luscious.
- Once the rolls are fresh out of the oven, allow them to cool for a few minutes before generously spreading the cream cheese frosting over the top.
Notes or Tips
For an extra gooey and indulgent experience, consider drizzling additional melted butter over the rolls right before adding the frosting. You can also experiment with nuts or raisins in the filling for added texture and flavor. Enjoy your cinnamon rolls warm out of the oven for the best taste!
Cooking Techniques
It’s all about gentle handling with this dough! Kneading is essential to develop the gluten, which gives your rolls structure. Be patient during the rising times, as this will yield soft and fluffy rolls that melt in your mouth. Remember, keeping your dough in a warm environment will promote better yeast activity and rise.
FAQ
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the rolls up to the point before the final rise, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
Can I freeze leftover rolls?
Definitely! Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm them in the oven.
Conclusion
These homemade cinnamon rolls are more than just a recipe; they are a delightful experience filled with warmth, comfort, and deliciousness. Perfect for special occasions or just a lazy Sunday morning, they remind us of the joy found in sharing homemade treats with loved ones. So why wait? Get started on this sweet adventure today and indulge in the heavenly goodness of freshly baked cinnamon rolls!