Making cinnamon rolls is a delightful process that results in a deliciously sweet and comforting treat. Here’s a recipe and procedure for classic Cinnamon Rolls:
Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (around 110°F or 45°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt (optional)
Procedure:
1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and activated.
2. Mix Dough: In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook attachment, combine the activated yeast mixture, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add in the flour while mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead Dough: Knead the dough either by hand on a floured surface or with the stand mixer for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much.
4. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, turning once to coat. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon for the filling.
6. Roll Out Dough: After the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle, about 16×21 inches in size.
7. Add Filling: Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered dough, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
8.Roll Up Dough: Starting from one of the longer sides, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape. Pinch the seam to seal.
9. Cut Rolls: Using a sharp knife or a piece of unflavored dental floss, cut the rolled dough into 12 equal-sized rolls.
10. Second Rise: Place the cut rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans. Cover them with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until they’ve doubled in size and are touching each other.
11. Preheat Oven: While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
12. Bake: Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.
13. Make Frosting: While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt (if using). Beat until creamy and well-combined.
14. Frost Rolls: Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, spread the prepared cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls.
15. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the freshly baked Cinnamon Rolls warm and enjoy their soft, fluffy texture, sweet cinnamon filling, and creamy frosting!
These homemade Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any special occasion. Enjoy making them and savoring the delicious flavors!
