Few things compare to the fragrance of warm cinnamon rolls fresh out of the oven. Whether it’s a quiet Sunday morning or a festive holiday gathering, these indulgent treats never fail to delight. With their soft, pillowy dough, gooey cinnamon-sugar swirl, and luscious icing, cinnamon rolls are the ultimate comfort food. And the best part? You don’t need to rely on store-bought ones. Making your own at home is easier than you think!
Here's a foolproof recipe that will fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of homemade baking. Plus, we’ll share tips on how to make them even more special with fun toppings and variations.
Ingredients You'll Need
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Begin by pouring warm milk into a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the yeast and a tablespoon of sugar over the milk. Give it a gentle stir and allow it to bloom for 5–10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you see it frothy and bubbling on the surface.
Step 2: Combine the Dough Ingredients
Add the melted butter, remaining sugar, salt, and eggs to the bowl. Mix until combined. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a smooth dough forms. It should be soft but not sticky.
Step 3: Knead and Rise
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until it’s elastic and slightly springy. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with the dough hook attachment for 5–7 minutes. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and allow it to rise in a warm spot for 1–2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, make the cinnamon filling. Mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until you get a thick paste.
Step 5: Roll and Fill
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 18 x 12 inches in size. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the surface, reaching all edges.
Step 6: Roll and Cut
Roll the dough tightly from the longer side to create a log. Cut into 12 evenly sized rolls, about 1.5 inches thick, using a sharp knife or piece of dental floss for clean cuts.
Step 7: Second Rise
Place the rolls, cut side up, into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover them with a towel and allow them to rise for another 30–45 minutes, or until they’ve puffed up.
Step 8: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on top. Avoid over-baking to keep them soft and gooey.
Step 9: Make the Frosting
While the rolls are baking, whisk together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy.
Step 10: Frost and Serve
Spread the frosting over the warm rolls as soon as they come out of the oven. The heat will slightly melt the frosting, draping every roll in sweet, creamy perfection. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls
- Warm Ingredients: Keep ingredients like milk, yeast, and butter at warm (not hot) temperatures for the softest dough.
- Don’t Rush the Rise: Patience pays off here. Allow your dough to rise completely for that light, airy texture.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough and fill the rolls the night before. Just cover and leave them in the fridge for a slow overnight rise. Bake them the next morning.
- Add a Touch of Spice: Sprinkle a dash of nutmeg or cardamom into the filling for extra depth of flavor.
Fun Variations and Toppings
- Maple Frosting: Replace vanilla with maple syrup in the frosting for a cozy twist.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon filling before rolling.
- Fruit Bliss: Add dried fruit like raisins, cranberries, or chopped apples to the filling for a fruity surprise.
- Caramel Drizzle: Swap frosting for a gooey caramel sauce and top with sea salt for a sweet-salty combo.
Making cinnamon rolls at home is more than just baking. It’s about creating a warm, inviting experience that brings smiles and sweet memories. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own flair, these cinnamon rolls are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Happy baking!
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