Name: Homemade Cinnamon Rolls: Don’t Settle for Store-Bought
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2% milk; instant yeast; large eggs; ½ cup butter; granulated sugar; brown sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; bread flour; Saigon cinnamon; heavy cream; full fat cream cheese; powdered sugar; maple extract

There’s something magically comforting about the scent of freshly baked homemade cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen. This delightful treat not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also evokes warm memories and cozy moments shared with loved ones. Whether enjoyed for breakfast or as a sweet afternoon snack, these scrumptious rolls have a universal appeal that brings smiles to faces of all ages.

Moreover, crafting your own cinnamon rolls at home allows for customization, from the perfect swirl to the sugary glaze drizzled on top. By embracing your inner baker, you have the freedom to experiment with flavors and ingredients, ensuring each batch is uniquely yours. So, let’s dive into the world of these beloved treats and discover how to make homemade cinnamon rolls that are fluffy, gooey, and utterly irresistible!

Essential Ingredients :

Creating irresistible homemade cinnamon rolls requires a few essential ingredients. You will need:

– 2 cups 2% milk (or whole, almond, or coconut milk)
– 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast (active dry yeast works too)
– 2 large eggs
– ½ cup unsalted butter (melted for extra richness)
– ⅓ cup granulated sugar (for the dough)
– ½ cup dark brown sugar (in filling)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 to 4 ½ cups bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
– 2 tablespoons Saigon cinnamon (for that warm spice flavor)
– ½ cup heavy cream (a necessity for gooeyness)
– 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese (for the frosting)
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon maple or vanilla extract (choose your flavor preference)

These ingredients combine to create fluffy, warm rolls that can delight everyone. If you’re a fan of similar baked goods, check out this delicious Cinnamon Swirl Bread.

Enjoy the process, as crafting homemade cinnamon rolls from scratch is not just about the final product but also the joy of baking! With a little patience and the right measurements, you’ll be savoring each delectable bite in no time.

How to Prepare:

Creating delightful homemade cinnamon rolls starts with preparing the dough. Start by warming 1 cup of 2% milk to about 110°F, then mix in 2 ¼ teaspoons of instant yeast, allowing it to bloom for about 5 minutes. In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of bread flour, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Add melted butter and the milk mixture, then mix until a soft dough forms. Knead it for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.

Next, let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 hour. For the filling, blend ½ cup of softened butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons of Saigon cinnamon. Roll out the dough, spread the filling evenly, and roll it up tightly. Cut into 12 pieces, then place them in a greased baking dish. Allow them to rise again for 30 minutes.

Finally, bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Drizzle with a cream cheese frosting made from full-fat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and your choice of vanilla or maple extract. Enjoy these scrumptious treats! If you’re inspired to try more delicious recipes, check out Cinnamon Roll Pancakes for another yummy twist!

Tips for Perfectly Fluffy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls:

To achieve irresistibly soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls, focus on the basics of dough preparation. Start by making sure your yeast is fresh; this ensures that your dough rises beautifully. When mixing the ingredients, always use warm milk, but avoid overheating it, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. Kneading the dough is crucial; aim for about 8-10 minutes to develop gluten, creating the perfect texture.

After shaping your rolls, allow them ample time to proof. A warm, draft-free area is ideal; consider placing the dough in a turned-off oven with the light on. This helps create a cozy environment for your rolls to rise. For added flavor, you might also enjoy trying cinnamon roll waffles for a different twist on this classic treat. For a detailed recipe, visit Taste of Lizzy T’s Homemade Cinnamon Rolls. Lastly, brushing the tops with melted butter before baking offers a delightful golden finish.

Icing Variations for Homemade Cinnamon Rolls:

Transform your homemade cinnamon rolls with delightful icing variations that elevate their flavor. Classic cream cheese icing is a favorite, combining cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract for a rich, tangy topping. For a lighter touch, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk works wonders. This easy-to-make icing adds just the right sweetness without overwhelming the roll’s flavor.

Creative Flavor Additions

Consider infusing your icing with flavors like orange or almond extract for a unique twist. Chocolate lovers may enjoy a chocolate ganache icing, made by melting chocolate with heavy cream. To add a soft crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts on top before the icing sets. For those looking to change things up, why not try fun variations like cinnamon roll waffles? These creative alternatives offer a delightful experience while keeping the essence of homemade cinnamon rolls.

Seasonal Inspirations

During the holidays, adding spices such as nutmeg or ginger to your icing can bring festive flair. Another great option is using a prepared homemade eggnog for an indulgent holiday icing. Experiment and enjoy the delightful variations that take your homemade cinnamon rolls from ordinary to extraordinary!

Serving Suggestions for Homemade Cinnamon Rolls:

Homemade cinnamon rolls are a versatile treat, perfect for breakfast or dessert. To enhance their delightful sweetness, consider drizzling a rich cream cheese frosting over warm rolls right before serving. This creamy addition complements the cinnamon and sugar beautifully. You can also explore creative variations, such as pairing your rolls with a cup of homemade hot chocolate mix for a cozy, comforting experience during chilly days.

For a brunch gathering, serve these scrumptious rolls alongside savory items like garlic Parmesan pull-apart rolls, which add a fantastic contrast of flavors. Alternatively, add freshness to your meal by including some salmon cucumber rolls. Their light and refreshing taste helps balance the richness of the cinnamon rolls. Whether enjoyed plain, with toppings, or as part of a broader spread, homemade cinnamon rolls are sure to delight any audience.

Storage Tips for Homemade Cinnamon Rolls:

To keep your delicious homemade cinnamon rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’re best enjoyed within 2-3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Simply wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. For variations, try cinnamon roll waffles for a fun twist!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What ingredients do I need to make homemade cinnamon rolls?

To create delicious homemade cinnamon rolls, you will typically need flour, sugar, yeast, milk, eggs, butter, cinnamon, and salt. These ingredients come together to form a soft, sweet dough that is rolled and filled with a luscious cinnamon-sugar mixture.

How long does it take to prepare and bake cinnamon rolls?

Preparation time for these delightful rolls is about 2 hours, including rising time, while baking takes around 20-25 minutes. Thus, you can enjoy freshly baked cinnamon rolls in just a couple of hours.

Can I use a stand mixer for making the dough?

Absolutely! A stand mixer makes it easier to knead the dough effectively. Just ensure you have the dough hook attachment, which will help achieve a soft, elastic dough.

How can I store leftover cinnamon rolls?

To preserve the freshness of any leftover homemade cinnamon rolls, wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can remain fresh for several days.

What is the best way to reheat cinnamon rolls?

For the best results, reheat your homemade cinnamon rolls in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 10 minutes. This will keep them warm and soft.

Are there any variations to traditional cinnamon rolls?

Certainly! Variations include adding nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips for an enhanced flavor experience. You might also enjoy cinnamon roll pancakes, a delightful twist on the classic recipe that you can find here.

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls: Don’t Settle for Store-Bought

Total Time: 50
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Homemade Cinnamon Rolls are soft, gooey, and bursting with flavor, making them the perfect indulgent breakfast or dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

2% milk

instant yeast

large eggs

½ cup butter

granulated sugar

brown sugar

1 teaspoon salt

bread flour

Saigon cinnamon

heavy cream

full fat cream cheese

powdered sugar

maple extract

Instructions

Warm the milk and mix in the instant yeast to activate it.
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and salt, then pour in the yeast mixture.
Gradually stir in the flour until a dough forms, then knead until smooth.
Let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Roll out the dough, spread softened butter, sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon, then roll tightly.
Slice into rolls and place in a greased baking dish, then let rise again until puffy.
Bake in a preheated oven until golden brown, about 30 minutes.
Drizzle with heavy cream and cream cheese frosting before serving.