There’s something magically comforting about the warm, sweet aroma of cinnamon rolls baking in the oven. It’s a scent that can transport you back to cozy mornings, family gatherings, and cherished memories. Recently, I decided to try my hand at making homemade cinnamon rolls with glaze, and the experience was nothing short of delightful. My family, including my usually skeptical children, devoured them with joy. The layers of tender dough, rich cinnamon filling, and the perfect glaze on top created a symphony of flavors that was impossible to resist. Now, let’s dive into the recipe and explore how you can create this delicious treat in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Creating the perfect cinnamon rolls from scratch requires a well-considered mix of ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in contributing to the overall flavor and texture of the rolls. For the dough, you’ll need 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened), 1 cup warm milk, 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast, 1 teaspoon salt, and 2 large eggs. These ingredients will help you achieve a soft and fluffy dough that is essential for delightful cinnamon rolls.
For the cinnamon filling, gather 1 cup of brown sugar, 2 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon, and 1/3 cup unsalted butter (softened). This mixture is what gives the cinnamon rolls their iconic sweet and spicy flavor. Finally, for the glaze, you’ll need 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, 1/4 cup cream cheese (softened), 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened), 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons milk. The glaze adds the perfect finishing touch, balancing sweetness with a hint of tang from the cream cheese.
Instructions
Begin by preparing the dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let this sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active. Add the softened butter, eggs, and salt to the mixture, stirring until well combined. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 16×12 inches.
Spread the softened butter for the filling evenly over the surface of the rolled-out dough. Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough. Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.
Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them with a towel, and let them rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Once the rolls are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before drizzling the glaze generously over the top.
Nutrition Facts
This recipe makes approximately 12 cinnamon rolls. Each roll is a perfect indulgence, packing around 400 calories. The calorie content is mainly attributed to the rich ingredients like butter, sugar, and cream cheese. While these treats are undeniably delicious, they are best enjoyed in moderation. However, they provide a satisfying energy boost, making them a wonderful option for a special breakfast or brunch.
Preparation Time
Making cinnamon rolls from scratch is a labor of love, but the end result is well worth the effort. The preparation time for this recipe is around 25 minutes, with an additional 1 hour and 30 minutes for the dough to rise. Baking time is approximately 25-30 minutes. Overall, you should set aside about 2 hours and 30 minutes to prepare and bake these delightful rolls. While this may seem like a lengthy process, remember that much of the time is hands-off, allowing you to attend to other tasks or simply enjoy the anticipation of delicious homemade cinnamon rolls.
How to Serve
- Serve the cinnamon rolls warm, fresh out of the oven, for the best taste and texture.
- Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness.
- For an extra special touch, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
- Include a side of fresh fruit to add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
- Enjoy them as a decadent breakfast, brunch, or even a dessert option.
Additional Tips
1. For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg to the cinnamon filling.
2. If you prefer a more gooey texture, increase the amount of butter and brown sugar in the filling.
3. To make slicing the rolled dough easier, use unflavored dental floss instead of a knife.
4. If you’re short on time, the dough can be prepared the night before and refrigerated. Just bring it to room temperature before proceeding with the recipe.
5. For a festive twist, add a handful of chopped nuts or dried fruits to the filling before rolling the dough.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
A: Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Use the same amount, but skip the step of activating it in warm milk. Simply mix it with the dry ingredients.
Q: How should I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
A: Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I make the glaze thicker or thinner?
A: Absolutely! Adjust the consistency of the glaze by adding more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze or more milk for a thinner drizzle.
Q: Is it possible to make these rolls vegan?
A: Yes, you can make vegan cinnamon rolls by substituting plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) for the eggs.
Q: What if I don’t have cream cheese for the glaze?
A: If you’re out of cream cheese, simply omit it from the glaze recipe, or replace it with an equal amount of softened butter for a classic vanilla glaze.