Cinnamon Roll
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Deliciously soft and gooey, these cinnamon rolls are perfect for a cozy breakfast or dessert.
Cinnamon rolls have been a beloved treat for centuries, known for their warm, sweet aroma and comforting flavors. These rolls are perfect for sharing during holidays or enjoying on a lazy weekend morning.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The irresistible aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through your home
- Soft, pillowy texture that makes each bite a delight
- Easily customizable with nuts, raisins, or icing
The Perfect Breakfast Treat
Cinnamon rolls are a classic breakfast delight that combines the rich flavors of cinnamon and sugar with a soft, fluffy texture. They make for an indulgent morning treat that can easily elevate any breakfast table. Whether enjoyed with a steaming cup of coffee or as a sweet snack throughout the day, these rolls are sure to please everyone in the family.
What sets these cinnamon rolls apart is their gooey filling and the warm, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake. The anticipation of pulling a fresh batch from the oven is part of the experience, making them an excellent choice for weekend brunches or special occasions.
A Versatile Recipe
One of the best things about this cinnamon roll recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the filling to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for an added crunch. Or, if you love dried fruits, raisins or cranberries can bring a delightful chewiness to each bite.
You can also experiment with different icings. A classic cream cheese frosting adds a tangy twist, while a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk provides a sweet finish. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this recipe your own every time you bake.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These cinnamon rolls are not just for breakfast; they can be a delightful dessert too! Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert that will impress your guests. They are perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a touch of sweetness.
Additionally, they make excellent gifts! Wrap a batch in a decorative box or tin and share them with neighbors or friends. There's nothing quite like homemade goodies to brighten someone's day, and these cinnamon rolls are sure to bring smiles all around.
Ingredients
Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Combine all ingredients thoroughly for the best results.
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, mix the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add the warmed milk, melted butter, and eggs. Knead until a smooth dough forms.
Let the Dough Rise
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Make the Filling
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
Roll and Cut
On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, then roll it up tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces.
Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Ice the Rolls
While the rolls are baking, whisk together the icing ingredients. Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the icing over the warm rolls.
Enjoy your warm, homemade cinnamon rolls!
Tips for Success
To ensure your cinnamon rolls turn out perfectly, make sure your yeast is fresh and active. If you're unsure, you can test it by adding it to warm water with a bit of sugar. If it bubbles up, it's good to go! This step is crucial for achieving that soft, fluffy texture.
When rolling out the dough, take your time to create an even rectangle. This will help you achieve uniform rolls that bake evenly. Don't be afraid to sprinkle a little extra flour on your work surface to prevent sticking, but be careful not to add too much, as it can affect the dough's texture.
Storage and Reheating
If you have any leftover cinnamon rolls, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Simply wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months, making them a convenient treat to have on hand.
When you're ready to enjoy a frozen roll, simply thaw it at room temperature for a few hours, then pop it in a warm oven for about 10 minutes to refresh. Drizzle with icing, and you'll have a deliciously warm treat ready to enjoy in no time!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before rolling out.
→ How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked rolls before the second rise. When ready to bake, thaw and let rise before baking.
→ What can I substitute for milk?
You can use almond milk, soy milk, or any milk alternative in this recipe.
Cinnamon Roll
Deliciously soft and gooey, these cinnamon rolls are perfect for a cozy breakfast or dessert.
Created by: Emma Parker
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 rolls
What You'll Need
Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, mix the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add the warmed milk, melted butter, and eggs. Knead until a smooth dough forms.
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, then roll it up tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
While the rolls are baking, whisk together the icing ingredients. Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the icing over the warm rolls.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 42g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 4g