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Cinnamon Rolls

Cinnamon rolls are a beloved treat, perfect for breakfast or dessert. They are soft, fluffy, and bursting with warm cinnamon flavor. Drizzled with a sweet icing, these rolls are hard to resist. Making them at home fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma that will make everyone’s mouths water!

Why make this recipe?

Making cinnamon rolls from scratch is a rewarding experience. Not only do they taste better than store-bought options, but baking them yourself lets you customize the flavors and sweetness to your liking. Plus, there’s something comforting about kneading dough and watching it rise. Enjoying fresh, homemade cinnamon rolls is a simple pleasure that everyone can appreciate.

How to prepare Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients:

4 cups all-purpose flour 🌾
1/4 cup sugar 🍬
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast 🍞
1 cup milk 🥛
1/2 cup butter, melted 🧈
1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂
2 large eggs 🥚
1 tablespoon cinnamon 🌰
1/2 cup brown sugar 🍂
1/4 cup butter (for filling) 🧈
1 cup powdered sugar 🍚
2 tablespoons milk (for icing) 🥛

Instructions:

Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk, 1/4 cup sugar, and the packet of active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Add the melted butter and the frothy yeast mixture. Mix well, then add the 2 large eggs. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth.
Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, mix the 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 tablespoon cinnamon, and 1/4 cup softened butter until smooth.
Roll out the dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
Add the filling: Spread the cinnamon sugar mixture over the rolled-out dough evenly.
Roll and cut the rolls: Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut it into 12 equal pieces.
Second rise: Place the rolls in a greased baking pan, cover, and let them rise again for 30 minutes.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Make the icing: Whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons milk until smooth. Drizzle over warm cinnamon rolls.

How to serve Cinnamon Rolls

Serve your cinnamon rolls warm, straight from the oven! They are delicious on their own but can also be paired with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a cozy breakfast or snack.

How to store Cinnamon Rolls

To store leftover cinnamon rolls, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place them in the freezer. They can last up to 3 months!

Tips for preparing Cinnamon Rolls

Make sure your milk is warm to activate the yeast properly, but not too hot, or it will kill the yeast.
Allow the dough to rise in a warm environment; you can turn your oven on low and then turn it off before letting the dough rise inside.
For extra flavor, consider adding nuts or raisins to the filling!

Variations

You can customize your cinnamon rolls by adding:

Cream cheese frosting instead of icing
Raisins or nuts in the filling
Different spices, such as nutmeg, for added flavor
Chocolate chips for a sweet twist

FAQs

1. Can I make cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the rolls, place them in the pan, cover them, and refrigerate them overnight. The next morning, let them come to room temperature before baking.

2. What if my dough doesn’t rise?
If the yeast was not activated properly, the dough may not rise. Make sure your yeast is fresh and that the milk was warm enough (but not too hot).

3. Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! You can freeze both unbaked and baked cinnamon rolls. To freeze unbaked rolls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from the freezer with a few extra minutes in the oven.

Now get ready to enjoy the delight of homemade cinnamon rolls! 🥯✨