Imagine waking up to the heavenly aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. These pillowy soft, sweet spirals of dough are swirled with a luscious cinnamon-sugar filling and drizzled with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Making homemade cinnamon rolls from scratch may seem like an intimidating task, but with a little patience and the right technique, you can create a bakery-worthy treat right in your own kitchen. The “Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe- Soft Sweet Breakfast” is a must-try for anyone who loves indulging in a warm, comforting, and utterly delicious breakfast or brunch item.
Pro Tip: For ultra-soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls, be sure to let the dough rise twice – once after kneading, and again after shaping the rolls. This extra rising time allows the dough to develop its optimal texture.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Nutrition Facts
| Per Serving | |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 58g |
| Fat | 18g |
Facts & Figures
Cinnamon rolls have been a beloved breakfast treat for centuries, with origins tracing back to ancient Europe. The combination of warm, yeasted dough swirled with sweet cinnamon and sugar is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time. In the United States alone, it’s estimated that over 1.5 billion cinnamon rolls are consumed each year, a testament to their enduring popularity.
Equipment & Tools Needed
- Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Baking dish or pie plate
- Parchment paper or non-stick cooking spray
Step-by-Step Procedure
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Warm the milk in a small saucepan or microwave until it reaches between 105-115°F (40-46°C). Pour the warm milk into the bowl of a stand mixer and sprinkle the yeast and 1 tsp of the granulated sugar over the top. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
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Add the remaining granulated sugar, softened butter, salt, and eggs to the yeast mixture and mix until well combined.
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Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Pro Tip: If the dough seems too sticky, add a little more flour, 1 tbsp at a time.
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Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
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Punch down the dough to release air bubbles, then roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 12×18 inch rectangle.
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Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with the brown sugar and cinnamon.
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Starting from the long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Cut into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.
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Place the rolls in a greased baking dish or pie plate, cover, and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
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While the rolls bake, make the cream cheese frosting by beating together the cream cheese, butter, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
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Remove the cinnamon rolls from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before drizzling or spreading with the cream cheese frosting.
Benefits of This Dish / Key Ingredients
While cinnamon rolls are certainly an indulgent treat, they do offer some nutritional benefits, particularly from the key ingredients like milk, eggs, and cinnamon itself. Milk provides calcium, protein, and B vitamins, while eggs are a source of choline, selenium, and vitamin D. Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Of course, moderation is key when enjoying this sweet breakfast pastry.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Deliciously soft and gooey texture
- Warm, comforting aroma and flavor
- Satisfying combination of sweet and spicy
- Homemade with simple ingredients
Cons:
- Time-consuming process (allow 2-3 hours total)
- High in calories and sugar
- Contains dairy and wheat (potential allergens)
Variations & Substitutions
To make these cinnamon rolls vegan, substitute plant-based milk, vegan butter or coconut oil, and a flax or chia egg replacement. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. You can also experiment with different fillings like chopped nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
Serving Suggestions
Cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. For an extra-special breakfast or brunch, serve them alongside fresh fruit, a yogurt parfait, or a savory egg dish like quiche or breakfast casserole. A hot cup of coffee or a tall glass of cold milk makes the perfect beverage pairing.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover cinnamon rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. To reheat, simply microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-10 minutes. You can also freeze the baked cinnamon rolls for up to 3 months. Let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter in this recipe. However, keep in mind that margarine has a slightly different flavor and texture than butter, so the taste and texture of the cinnamon rolls may be slightly different. If using margarine, opt for a high-quality, non-hydrogenated variety.
How do I know when the cinnamon rolls are fully baked?
The cinnamon rolls are fully baked when they have a golden-brown color and the center of the rolls feels firm to the touch. You can also use a digital thermometer to check the internal temperature – it should read around 190°F (88°C) when fully baked.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make these cinnamon rolls gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular all-purpose flour. Keep in mind that gluten-free doughs can be a bit drier and more crumbly, so you may need to adjust the amount of liquid slightly. It’s also important to check that all other ingredients (such as yeast and baking powder) are certified gluten-free.
How should I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Leftover cinnamon rolls can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Make sure to keep them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. You can also freeze the baked cinnamon rolls for up to 3 months – just thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
Homemade cinnamon rolls are a delicious and indulgent treat that are perfect for a special breakfast or brunch. While the process may seem a bit involved, the step-by-step instructions and helpful tips in this recipe should make it easy to achieve soft, sweet, and irresistible cinnamon rolls at home. Remember to be patient with the dough rising process, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings or toppings to suit your taste preferences. Happy cooking and enjoy your Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe- Soft Sweet Breakfast!