Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch are the epitome of comfort food, enveloping your kitchen in a warm, sweet aroma that beckons everyone to gather around the table. This delightful treat has a rich history, tracing back to ancient times when spices were a luxury, and baking was an art form. Originating in Northern Europe, cinnamon rolls have evolved into a beloved breakfast staple and dessert across the globe, each region adding its unique twist.
People adore Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch not just for their irresistible taste and fluffy texture, but also for the joy of creating something special with their own hands. The combination of soft, pillowy dough swirled with fragrant cinnamon and topped with creamy icing makes for an indulgent experience that is hard to resist. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as a delightful snack later in the day, these rolls are a perfect way to bring a little sweetness into your life. So, roll up your sleeves and lets dive into the delightful world of homemade cinnamon rolls!
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed to about 110°F (43°C)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)
Preparing the Dough
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step activates the yeast.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the frothy yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs.
- Using a wooden spoon or a dough hook attachment on a stand mixer, mix until the dough begins to come together. It should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
- Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, turning it to coat the surface with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Preparing the Filling
- While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Set the filling aside until the dough has finished rising.
Rolling Out the Dough
- Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface.
- Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 16×24 inches (40×60 cm) and about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the prepared filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Forming the Rolls
- Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Make sure to keep it as tight as possible without tearing the dough.
- Once rolled, pinch the seam to seal it. Use a sharp knife or a bench scraper to cut the log into 12 equal pieces (about 1.5 inches each).
- Place the cut rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each roll for expansion.
- Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise again in a warm place for about 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up.
Baking the Cinnamon Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.
- While the rolls are baking,
Conclusion:
In summary, these cinnamon rolls from scratch are a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a warm, gooey treat that fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. The combination of soft, fluffy dough and a rich, spiced filling creates a delightful experience that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy afternoon snack. Whether you enjoy them plain, drizzled with a simple glaze, or topped with cream cheese frosting, these cinnamon rolls can easily be customized to suit your taste. For a fun twist, consider adding nuts, raisins, or even a hint of orange zest to the filling for an extra layer of flavor. You can also experiment with different frostings, such as maple or chocolate, to elevate your cinnamon rolls to new heights. We encourage you to roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try. Once you experience the joy of making cinnamon rolls from scratch, youll understand why they are a beloved classic. Dont forget to share your experience and any variations you try with friends and family, as nothing brings people together quite like the warmth of freshly baked cinnamon rolls. Happy baking! Print
Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch: A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Homemade Treats
- Total Time: 120 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
Description
Indulge in soft and fluffy homemade cinnamon rolls, filled with a rich cinnamon-sugar mixture and topped with creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat any time of the day!
Ingredients
- softened cream cheese
- softened butter
- powdered sugar
- vanilla extract
- milk
Instructions
- Prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together the softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Add milk as needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes before frosting.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm cinnamon rolls and serve.
Notes
- For best results, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
- You can make the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight for a slower fermentation, which enhances the flavor.
- These cinnamon rolls can be frozen after baking. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
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