Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the house. Warm, fluffy, and sticky-sweet, these delightful treats are perfect for a cozy breakfast or a special brunch with friends and family. What’s even better? You can whip up these mouthwatering cinnamon rolls in just one hour! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this quick recipe is bound to impress. Let’s dive into the warm, sweet, and comforting world of cinnamon roll making!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt, stirring gently to blend the dry ingredients.
- In a saucepan, heat the milk, water, and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat until warm, about 110°F; this helps activate the yeast.
- Pour the warmed liquid into the dry mixture and mix on low speed until everything is well combined.
- Add the egg and gradually incorporate the remaining flour, just a little at a time, until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise for 10 minutes to give it a bit of a boost.
- After the rise, roll the dough out into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick, enjoying the satisfying texture beneath your hands.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and ground cinnamon generously on top for that signature flavor.
- Starting from one long side of the rectangle, carefully roll the dough into a tight log and slice it into 1-inch pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them with a towel, and allow them to rise for another 10 minutes until they look puffy and inviting.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F in preparation for baking these beautiful rolls.
- Bake the cinnamon rolls for about 20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and your kitchen is filled with a heavenly scent.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until it reaches a smooth consistency.
- Once the rolls are done, drizzle the warm icing generously over the top and serve while they are still warm—enjoy every sweet, gooey bite!
Notes or Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- If preferred, you can leave out the icing for a simpler treat, but trust me, the icing really makes them special!
- These rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for a day or two if needed.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases the straightforward technique of mixing and kneading dough, which is essential in baking. Don’t be afraid to get your hands a little floury—kneading helps develop gluten, contributing to that wonderful chewy texture we love in cinnamon rolls.
FAQ
- Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast? Yes, but you’ll need to activate it in warm water first for about 5-10 minutes before adding it to the dry ingredients.
- What can I add to the filling for some extra flavor? Chopped nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips can create a delicious twist on the classic roll!
- How do I reheat leftover cinnamon rolls? You can pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or in a warm oven to regain some of that freshly baked taste.
Conclusion
These one-hour cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion. With a simple blend of pantry staples and a quick rise, you can enjoy the fluffy, fragrant rolls in no time. Whether enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee or shared with loved ones, these cinnamon rolls are sure to become a cherished recipe in your home. Happy baking!