Cinnamon Rolls
Soft and fluffy pastries filled with sweet cinnamon and buttery goodness, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (100-110°F) This rich, creamy base will help our dough rise beautifully.
- 3 teaspoons active dry yeast This special ingredient is what gives these rolls their fluffy texture.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar Sweetness is key; it enhances the overall flavor and helps the dough rise.
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted This will add a rich and buttery taste.
- 2 large eggs These will contribute to the structure and help bind everything together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract A hint of vanilla adds depth to the flavor.
- 4 cups bread flour This gives the rolls their structure and chewiness.
- 1 teaspoon salt A small amount enhances the overall flavor.
Filling Ingredients
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted This gives the filling a rich, buttery flavor.
- 1 cup brown sugar The caramel undertones work harmoniously with cinnamon.
- 1 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon The star spice that transforms ordinary dough into a cinnamon lover’s dream.
Frosting Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened A luxurious base for the frosting.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened Adds a creamy texture to the frosting.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
- 2 tablespoons milk To create a smooth consistency in the frosting.
- 2 cups powdered sugar Sweetness for the frosting that balances the richness of the rolls.
Instructions
Preparing the Dough
- Heat 1 cup of milk in the microwave in 15-30 seconds intervals until it reaches 100-110°F.
- Pour the warm milk into a bowl and sprinkle the active dry yeast over it. Allow the yeast to bloom for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly.
- Add the sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla to the milk-yeast mixture. Mix until combined.
- Gradually add the bread flour and salt, mixing on low speed until the dough starts to come together. Increase to medium speed and knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Preparing the Filling
- While the dough is rising, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Melt the butter for the filling and set it aside to cool slightly.
Assembling the Rolls
- After the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release air bubbles and turn it onto a floured surface.
- Roll the dough into a large rectangle, approximately 16x24 inches. Brush the melted butter over the surface of the dough.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border along one long edge.
- Starting from the long edge without the border, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal and cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, cover and let them rise for an additional 30-45 minutes.
Baking
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Preparing the Frosting
- In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and milk, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar until smooth.
Serving
- Allow the rolls to cool for 5-10 minutes before generously spreading the frosting over the warm rolls. Serve immediately.
Notes
Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for any occasion! Serve them warm with fresh fruit for breakfast or brunch. They also make a wonderful treat for holiday gatherings, cozy weekends, or as a special dessert after dinner.