Introduction
Cinnamon Rolls are a beloved American pastry known for their soft, fluffy texture and aromatic flavor. Made from a sweet yeast dough, they are rolled with a mixture of cinnamon, sugar, and butter, then baked until golden brown. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat any time of day. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or warmed later, Cinnamon Rolls offer a comforting taste that evokes feelings of home and happiness.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F or 43°C)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (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 reach desired consistency)
Instructions
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Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
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Knead the Dough:
- Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-1.5 hours.
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Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using) until well combined.
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Roll Out the Dough:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. On a floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle about 16x24 inches. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
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Roll and Slice:
- Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish, cut side up. Cover with a cloth and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
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Preheat and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
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Make the Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add milk to achieve your desired consistency.
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Frost and Serve:
- Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm cinnamon rolls before serving. Enjoy fresh!
Health Notes
- Cinnamon Rolls are a delicious treat but can be high in sugar and calories. Enjoy them in moderation, especially if you're watching your intake.
Serving Suggestions
- Cinnamon Rolls are best served warm, fresh out of the oven. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.
Tips
- Dough Temperature: Ensure that your milk is warm but not hot; too much heat can kill the yeast.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding raisins, chopped nuts, or even chocolate chips to the filling for a twist on the classic recipe.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the rolls the night before and refrigerate them before the second rise. In the morning, simply let them come to room temperature before baking.
- Storage: Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
