The Best Cinnamon Rolls

Introduction

Cinnamon rolls are a beloved classic that can turn any morning into a special occasion. I still remember the first time I made them; the warm aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the house was nothing short of magical. My family couldn’t resist sneaking a taste before they were even frosted! This recipe for The Best Cinnamon Rolls is easy to follow and delivers delightfully fluffy rolls with a gooey filling and luscious cream cheese frosting. They’re perfect for brunch, special occasions, or even a cozy weekend breakfast. Let’s dive into this delectable recipe!

Ingredients

For the Rolls:

• 1 cup milk, heated to 110°F
• 2 + 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons melted butter, divided
• 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus 2-4 tablespoons as needed

For the Filling:

• 6 tablespoons softened butter
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 tablespoons softened butter
• 4 oz softened cream cheese
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, egg, 1 tablespoon of melted butter, sugar, and salt. Whisk together until smooth.
2. Gradually add the flour, stirring with a wooden spatula until the dough forms and is no longer sticky. If needed, add extra flour 1 tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
3. Knead the dough for about 3 minutes until smooth. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and allow the dough to rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling

1. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.

Shape the Rolls

1. Lightly flour your work surface and turn out the risen dough. Roll it into a rectangle approximately 17 x 10 inches.
2. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, making sure to reach the edges.
3. Starting from one long side, roll the dough into a log. Use dental floss to cut the log into 8 equal rolls.

Second Rise

1. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Cover with plastic wrap and let them rise in a warm place for an additional 30 minutes.
2. Once risen, brush the tops with the remaining tablespoon of melted butter.

Bake

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow them to cool for about 15 minutes after baking.

Prepare the Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until well combined.

Serve

1. Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm cinnamon rolls.
2. Serve and enjoy your delicious creations!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus rising time)

How to Serve

• Serve warm, right out of the oven.
• Drizzle with cream cheese frosting generously.
• Garnish with additional cinnamon or chopped nuts for added flavor.
• Pair with coffee, tea, or milk for a complete breakfast.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise and texture in your rolls.
2. Knead Gently: Over-kneading can lead to tough rolls; just knead until smooth.
3. Rising Environment: Find a warm, draft-free spot for the dough to rise. An oven with the light on works well!
4. Variations: Try adding nuts or dried fruit to the filling for extra texture.
5. Make Ahead: You can prepare the rolls the night before, cover them, and let them rise in the fridge overnight.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls: Add chocolate chips to the filling for a rich twist.
• Nutty Cinnamon Rolls: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts in the filling for added crunch.
• Pumpkin Spice Rolls: Substitute some of the milk for pumpkin puree and add pumpkin spice to the filling.
• Maple Frosting: Swap the cream cheese frosting for a maple glaze for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast.
• Pair with scrambled eggs or breakfast meats for a hearty meal.
• Create a brunch spread with other baked goods, fresh coffee, and juices.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Allow rolls to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

• Yes, instant yeast can be used. There’s no need to proof it in warm milk; just add it directly to the dry ingredients.

1. What if my dough doesn’t rise?

• Ensure your yeast is fresh and that your rising environment is warm enough.

1. Can I make the dough in a bread machine?

• Yes, you can use the dough setting on your bread machine.

1. How can I make the rolls more decadent?

• Add more butter to the filling or drizzle more frosting on top!

1. Is there a gluten-free option?

• You can substitute gluten-free flour, but the texture may vary slightly.

1. Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

• Yes, you can adjust the sugar to your preference, but it may affect sweetness and texture.

1. How do I know when the rolls are done?

• The rolls should be lightly golden and should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

1. Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?

• Yes, almond milk can be used, but it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

1. What is the best way to reheat leftover rolls?

• Warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through.

1. Can I add fruit to the filling?
   • Yes, chopped apples or berries can be a delightful addition to the filling.

Conclusion

There’s something undeniably comforting about a freshly baked batch of cinnamon rolls. With this recipe for The Best Cinnamon Rolls, you’ll create a sweet, fluffy treat that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether for a special occasion or just a weekend breakfast, these cinnamon rolls are sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, get your ingredients ready, and enjoy the process of making these delicious rolls from scratch!

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