Introduction
Welcome to the delicious world of homemade cinnamon rolls, where the aroma of freshly baked dough meets the warm embrace of cinnamon and sugar! These New Year’s Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect way to welcome the new year, making your mornings feel extra special. Soft, fluffy, and generously drizzled with sweet icing, each bite is a delightful treat that embodies comfort and joy. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking!
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it’s frothy and full of bubbles.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, melted butter, and salt. Once combined, add the frothy yeast mixture along with the eggs. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and set it in a warm place to rise for approximately 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle with packed brown sugar and ground cinnamon, covering every inch for that perfect sweet and spicy flavor.
- Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, ensuring the filling stays inside, and slice the log into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them, and allow them to rise for another 30 minutes.
- Once the second rise is complete, bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and delightful.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing by mixing the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle this luscious icing over them while they are still warm for a melt-in-your-mouth finish.
Notes or Tips
- For an even richer taste, consider adding chopped nuts or raisins to the filling.
- Don’t skip the rising times; they’re essential for achieving that fluffy texture.
- If you want to prep ahead, you can make the dough a day in advance and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe highlights essential techniques such as proofing yeast, which adds leavening and flavor to the rolls. Kneading the dough is crucial as it develops gluten, creating the fluffy texture we love. Gentle handling of the dough during rolling and slicing preserves the delicate layers filled with sweetness and spice.
FAQ
- Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast? Yes, you can! Simply mix the instant yeast directly with the dry ingredients without proofing it first.
- How should I store leftover cinnamon rolls? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
- Can I freeze the cinnamon rolls? Absolutely! Before baking, freeze the sliced rolls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
These New Year’s Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect treat to kick off a fresh start, bringing warmth and sweetness to your celebration. Whether enjoyed for breakfast or as a delightful afternoon snack, they are sure to spread joy and comfort with every bite. So gather your loved ones, share the warmth of these delicious rolls, and welcome the new year with open arms and full hearts!