Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Soft, sweet, and perfectly spiced, these cinnamon rolls are the ultimate comfort treat for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a morning indulgence or a sweet snack, this recipe ensures that each roll is fluffy and filled with a delicious swirl of cinnamon and sugar. Follow along with these simple steps to make these irresistible cinnamon rolls from scratch.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup softened butter
Optional Topping:
- Icing or cream cheese frosting (for drizzling)
Preparation Instructions
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Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, and instant yeast. Stir them together until evenly mixed.
- Add the warm milk, melted butter, and salt into the dry mixture. Stir until a dough starts to form. The milk should be warm to help activate the yeast, but not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Once the mixture is combined, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic.
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for approximately 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
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Prepare the Filling:
- While the dough is rising, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Soften the butter to room temperature so it spreads easily onto the dough later.
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Assemble the Cinnamon Rolls:
- After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air bubbles. On a floured surface, roll the dough out into a rectangle about 12 inches by 18 inches.
- Spread the softened butter evenly across the surface of the dough. Then, sprinkle the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture evenly on top of the buttered dough, making sure to cover the entire surface.
- Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log shape. Pinch the edges to seal the seam.
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Slice and Rise Again:
- Using a sharp knife, cut the rolled dough into approximately 12 even slices.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Place the dough slices into the dish, spacing them slightly apart.
- Cover the pan with a towel and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.
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Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the rolls have risen, place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the rolls are cooked through.
- For an optional extra touch, you can drizzle the rolls with a simple icing or cream cheese frosting once they are done baking.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm and fresh out of the oven, and feel free to drizzle with icing for added sweetness!
Allergen Information
This recipe contains the following allergens:
- Gluten (from all-purpose flour)
- Dairy (from butter and milk)
To make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free butter or margarine and use almond or soy milk in place of the regular milk. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum or a similar binding agent.
Dietary Preferences
This recipe is vegetarian-friendly but is not suitable for vegans or those avoiding gluten or dairy. You can adjust the ingredients to suit various dietary needs by choosing non-dairy milk, gluten-free flour, or a vegan butter alternative.
Tips for Success:
- Yeast activation: Make sure the milk is warm but not too hot—overheating can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising properly.
- Flour measurement: For best results, measure the flour by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife to prevent the dough from being too dense.
- Rising time: If you’re short on time, you can let the dough rise in a warm oven. Preheat the oven to 200°F for about 5 minutes, then turn it off. Place the dough inside to rise.
- Cinnamon sugar ratio: Adjust the amount of cinnamon and sugar in the filling to your personal taste. If you like a stronger cinnamon flavor, add an extra teaspoon or two of ground cinnamon.
Conclusion
Making homemade cinnamon rolls from scratch can be an incredibly rewarding experience, offering a warm and delicious treat that will fill your home with the most inviting aroma. With a soft, fluffy texture and a rich, cinnamon-sugar swirl, these cinnamon rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack. Whether served fresh out of the oven or reheated for a cozy indulgence, they are sure to become a family favorite.
Try these cinnamon rolls the next time you’re looking for a comforting treat. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you’ll have a batch of irresistible rolls that everyone will love. Happy baking!
