Indulge in the sweet and comforting embrace of homemade Cinnamon Rolls, a cherished family favorite that brings joy to every bite. Join me on a delightful journey through the steps of creating these pillowy swirls of cinnamon goodness.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 tablespoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1 cup chopped nuts or raisins (optional)
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a bowl, combine warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Create the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, salt, eggs, and the activated yeast mixture.
- Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Kneading Magic:
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Rise and Shine:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
5. Roll it Out:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface, about 16×21 inches.
6. Fill with Goodness:
- Spread softened butter over the dough and evenly sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon. Add chopped nuts or raisins if desired.
7. Roll and Slice:
- Roll the dough tightly from the longer side, creating a log. Slice into 12 equal rolls.
8. Arrange and Bake:
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Creamy Frosting:
- While the rolls bake, prepare a simple cream cheese frosting by mixing cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
10. Frost and Enjoy:
- Once the rolls are out of the oven, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over them while still warm.
Tips:
- Overnight Prep: Prepare the dough the night before, refrigerate, and let it rise in the morning for a time-saving breakfast.
- Freezing Option: Freeze unbaked rolls and thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for a quick morning treat.
- Creative Additions: Experiment with adding chopped apples, raisins, or a drizzle of caramel for unique flavor twists.
Variations:
1. Pecan Paradise:
Enhance the filling with a layer of chopped pecans for a delightful crunch.
2. Orange Zest Zing:
Add orange zest to the filling and frosting for a citrusy burst of flavor.
3. Nutella Bliss:
Replace the traditional filling with a layer of Nutella for a chocolatey delight.
FAQ:
Q1: Can I make these ahead for a special occasion? A1: Absolutely! Prepare the rolls the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning.
Q2: Can I freeze the baked rolls? A2: Yes, freeze the rolls without frosting, and thaw before reheating.
Q3: Any dairy-free options for the frosting? A3: Use dairy-free cream cheese and substitute milk in the frosting for a dairy-free alternative.
Conclusion:
Elevate your mornings with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked Cinnamon Rolls, a treat that transcends generations and creates lasting memories. Share the joy with loved ones and savor each cinnamon-infused swirl.