Cinnamon Roll
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Indulge in the warm, gooey goodness of homemade cinnamon rolls, perfectly spiced and topped with creamy frosting.
The aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls is unbeatable. This recipe combines the classic flavors of cinnamon and sugar with a soft, pillowy dough, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Warm, comforting flavors that remind you of home
- Soft and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
- Perfectly sweetened with creamy frosting for an indulgent treat
The Art of Making Cinnamon Rolls
Making cinnamon rolls from scratch is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. The process may seem daunting at first, but with a little patience and practice, you'll master the art of creating these fluffy treats. Each step, from mixing the dough to rolling it out, is an opportunity to connect with the tradition of baking. As you knead and shape the dough, you'll feel the satisfaction that comes from working with your hands and creating something delicious.
One of the best parts of homemade cinnamon rolls is the flexibility of the recipe. You can customize the filling to suit your taste by adding nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips for a decadent twist. The dough itself is a blank canvas, allowing you to experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom. This adaptability not only makes the rolls uniquely yours but also ensures there's a version for everyone, whether you prefer classic flavors or adventurous combinations.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls
To achieve the perfect rise in your cinnamon rolls, make sure your yeast is fresh and active. If you're unsure, a simple test is to mix the yeast with warm milk and sugar; if it becomes frothy after a few minutes, you're good to go! Additionally, the environment can affect the rising process. A warm, draft-free area is ideal for allowing the dough to double in size. If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the dough in an oven with just the light on to create a cozy atmosphere for rising.
When it comes to rolling out the dough, aim for an even thickness to ensure uniform baking. Use a light dusting of flour on your work surface to prevent sticking, but be careful not to over-flour, as this can lead to dry rolls. After cutting the dough into pieces, spacing them appropriately in the baking dish allows for perfect expansion during the second rise, resulting in soft, pillowy rolls that are easy to pull apart and enjoy.
Ingredients
Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
Filling
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Frosting
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
- 1 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead and Rise
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Make the Filling
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll out the risen dough into a rectangle. Spread softened butter over the dough and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top.
Roll and Cut
Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish. Let them rise again for 30 minutes.
Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly.
Prepare the Frosting
In a bowl, mix powdered sugar, softened butter, cream cheese, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Spread over warm rolls before serving.
Enjoy your freshly baked cinnamon rolls warm!
Storing and Reheating Cinnamon Rolls
Once you've baked your delicious cinnamon rolls, you may wonder how to store them for later enjoyment. Allow the rolls to cool completely, then cover them loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep them fresh. At room temperature, they will last for up to two days. For longer storage, consider placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can stay good for about a week. If you want to keep them even longer, cinnamon rolls freeze beautifully. Simply wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy your stored cinnamon rolls, reheating them is simple. For the best results, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the rolls on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. If you're in a hurry, you can also microwave them for about 15-20 seconds, but be cautious not to overheat, as they can become tough. Adding a touch of frosting or a drizzle of cream cheese icing before serving can elevate the experience even further.
Perfect Pairings for Your Cinnamon Rolls
Cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your breakfast or brunch experience. A steaming cup of coffee is a classic choice, as the rich, bold flavors complement the sweetness of the rolls perfectly. If you prefer tea, a chai or spiced blend can also enhance the cinnamon notes, creating a harmonious flavor profile that delights the senses.
For a more indulgent treat, consider serving your cinnamon rolls with a side of fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced bananas. The natural acidity and sweetness of the fruit can balance the richness of the rolls, offering a refreshing contrast. If you want to take it up a notch, adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can transform your cinnamon rolls into a decadent dessert, perfect for special occasions or weekend treats.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it. Let it come to room temperature before rolling.
→ What can I use instead of cream cheese in the frosting?
You can use additional butter or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
→ How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Cinnamon Roll
Indulge in the warm, gooey goodness of homemade cinnamon rolls, perfectly spiced and topped with creamy frosting.
Created by: Anya Coleman
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 rolls
What You'll Need
Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
Filling
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Frosting
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
- 1 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll out the risen dough into a rectangle. Spread softened butter over the dough and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top.
Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish. Let them rise again for 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly.
In a bowl, mix powdered sugar, softened butter, cream cheese, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Spread over warm rolls before serving.
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