Cinnamon rolls are a beloved treat, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack any time of the day. With their fluffy dough and gooey cinnamon filling, they’re a comfort food classic. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this guide will walk you through the steps to bake the best cinnamon rolls from scratch.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
– 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F (43°C)
– 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
For the Cinnamon Filling:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cream Cheese Frosting (optional):
– 4 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1-2 tablespoons milk (to achieve desired consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
– In a small bowl, combine the warmed milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
– In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until well combined.
– Gradually add the remaining flour, stirring until a dough forms. You should have a soft, slightly sticky dough.
- Knead the Dough:
– Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes, adding flour as needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
– Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, turning it to coat. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare the Filling:
– In a medium bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. This will be your filling.
- Roll Out the Dough:
– Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick (approximately 16×24 inches).
– Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the rolled dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll and Cut:
– Starting from one of the longer edges, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it.
– Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the rolled dough into 12 equal slices. Place the slices in a greased baking dish (9×13 inches works well) or on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they are close together but not touching.
- Second Rise:
– Cover the rolls loosely with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up.
- Bake:
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, uncover them and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare the Frosting (Optional):
– While the rolls are baking, whip together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with additional milk if necessary.
- Frost and Serve:
– Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool for about 10 minutes before spreading the cream cheese frosting on top. Serve warm and enjoy the gooey, sweet goodness!
Tips for Success
– Warm Environment: Yeast thrives in a warm environment. If your kitchen is cool, consider preheating your oven to the lowest setting for a few minutes, then turning it off and placing the dough inside to rise.
– Don’t Rush the Rise: Allowing the dough to rise properly is crucial to achieving fluffy cinnamon rolls. Ensure it doubles in size during the first and second rise.
– Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative with your filling! Add nuts, raisins, or even apple pie filling for a fun twist.
Conclusion
Baking the perfect cinnamon rolls at home is an achievable goal with the right ingredients and techniques. With a little patience and love, you’ll end up with warm, fluffy rolls that melt in your mouth. Whether enjoyed on a cozy morning or as a delightful dessert, your homemade cinnamon rolls will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household.