Cinnamon Roll
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Delight in the warm, sweet aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls that are soft, fluffy, and covered in creamy icing.
This cinnamon roll recipe is a family favorite, perfect for weekend brunches or cozy mornings. The dough is enriched with butter and milk, making it incredibly soft and pillowy.
Why You'll Love This Cinnamon Roll
- Warm, gooey centers filled with cinnamon and sugar
- Lush cream cheese frosting that complements the rolls perfectly
- Perfect for sharing with family and friends
The Perfect Weekend Treat
There's nothing quite like the joy of waking up to the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls on a lazy weekend morning. These soft, fluffy rolls are not only a delight to your taste buds but also an experience that brings family and friends together. Preparing these cinnamon rolls is a wonderful way to share warmth and comfort, making it the perfect treat for a cozy brunch or a festive gathering.
The process of making cinnamon rolls is an enjoyable journey in itself. From mixing the dough to rolling it out and spreading the luscious filling, each step is a chance to engage in the art of baking. The anticipation builds as the rolls rise and then bake, filling your home with a mouthwatering aroma that beckons everyone to the kitchen.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls
To ensure your cinnamon rolls turn out perfectly every time, pay attention to the temperature of your ingredients. Using warm milk helps activate the yeast, leading to a light and airy texture. Additionally, make sure your butter is softened for easy mixing, which will result in a smoother filling and frosting.
When rolling up your dough, be gentle but firm to create tight rolls that hold their shape while baking. If you want to add a little extra flair, consider incorporating nuts or raisins into the filling for added texture and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the amount of sugar based on your preference for sweetness.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Once your cinnamon rolls are baked and frosted, they can be enjoyed warm straight from the oven or stored for later indulgence. To keep them fresh, store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider freezing them without the frosting, which will allow you to enjoy them fresh any time you desire.
When ready to serve, you can reheat the rolls in the oven or microwave for a few seconds to restore their softness. A drizzle of extra frosting just before serving adds a delightful touch and makes for an impressive presentation when sharing with guests.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
Mix all the ingredients well for the best flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually mix in flour until a dough forms.
Knead and Rise
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place 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 bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined. Roll out the dough into a rectangle and spread the filling evenly.
Roll and Cut
Roll the dough tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake the Rolls
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly.
Prepare the Frosting
In a bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk to achieve desired consistency. Spread over warm rolls.
Enjoy your delicious cinnamon rolls warm!
Why Cinnamon Rolls Are a Classic
Cinnamon rolls have been a beloved breakfast treat for generations, cherished for their comforting flavors and delightful textures. The combination of warm dough, sweet cinnamon, and creamy frosting has made them a staple in many households. Their versatility allows them to be enjoyed at any time of the day, whether as a breakfast indulgence, a snack, or a dessert.
The story of cinnamon rolls dates back to ancient times, but they gained popularity in the United States in the 20th century. Today, they are often associated with family gatherings and special occasions, transforming any meal into a celebration. Their ability to evoke nostalgia and create lasting memories adds to their timeless appeal.
Cinnamon Roll Variations to Try
While the classic cinnamon roll recipe is undeniably delicious, there are countless variations to explore. Consider adding a twist with chocolate chips or caramel sauce for a decadent treat. You could also experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or cardamom, to elevate the flavor profile and create a unique version of this beloved pastry.
For a seasonal touch, try incorporating pumpkin puree and spices in the fall or citrus zest in the spring. Each variation allows you to customize the rolls to your taste and occasion, making them a versatile addition to your baking repertoire.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before rolling.
→ How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for a week.
→ Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked rolls. When ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before baking.
→ What can I use instead of cream cheese for frosting?
You can substitute with vanilla or buttercream frosting if you prefer.
Cinnamon Roll
Delight in the warm, sweet aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls that are soft, fluffy, and covered in creamy icing.
Created by: Josie Lambert
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 rolls
What You'll Need
For the Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually mix in flour until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
In a bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined. Roll out the dough into a rectangle and spread the filling evenly.
Roll the dough tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly.
In a bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk to achieve desired consistency. Spread over warm rolls.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 4g