Cinnamon Roll Recipe: Soft, Fluffy, and Irresistible
1. Introduction to Cinnamon Rolls
Cinnamon rolls are a beloved baked good with roots tracing back to Northern Europe. Known as "kanelbullar" in Sweden, these sweet treats have captured hearts worldwide. Their pillowy dough, sweet cinnamon-sugar filling, and creamy glaze make them an irresistible indulgence.
Making cinnamon rolls at home may seem daunting, but this recipe simplifies the process into easy-to-follow steps. Whether for a holiday breakfast or a weekend treat, you'll find yourself returning to this recipe time and again.
2. Ingredients for the Perfect Cinnamon Rolls
Dough Ingredients
- Warm milk (110°F) – 1 cup (240ml)
- Granulated sugar – 1/3 cup (65g)
- Active dry yeast – 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet)
- Unsalted butter (melted) – 1/4 cup (57g)
- Egg – 1 large
- All-purpose flour – 3 1/2 cups (440g)
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
Cinnamon Filling
- Unsalted butter (softened) – 1/3 cup (75g)
- Brown sugar – 3/4 cup (150g)
- Ground cinnamon – 2 tablespoons
Cream Cheese Glaze
- Cream cheese (softened) – 4 ounces (113g)
- Powdered sugar – 1 cup (120g)
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
- Milk – 2–3 tablespoons
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: Add melted butter and the egg to the yeast mixture, whisking until combined.
- Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a sticky dough forms. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Creating the Cinnamon Filling
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until you have a spreadable paste.
Step 3: Rolling and Shaping the Dough
- Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, roll it into a large rectangle (about 16x12 inches).
- Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the cinnamon filling over the dough, leaving a small border along the edges.
- Roll and Slice: Tightly roll the dough into a log. Using a sharp knife, cut it into 12 even slices.
Step 4: Baking to Perfection
- Second Rise: Place the rolls into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise for 30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 5: Adding the Cream Cheese Glaze
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Adjust the consistency to your liking.
- Spread the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls and serve immediately.
4. Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls Every Time
- Use Warm Milk: Ensuring your milk is warm (but not hot) is key to activating the yeast properly.
- Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can cause the rolls to unravel.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Softened butter and cream cheese mix more smoothly for the filling and glaze.
- Monitor the Bake Time: Overbaking will result in dry rolls, so keep an eye on them!
5. Variations and Add-Ons
Creative Twists
- Nut Lovers: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling.
- Fruity Flavors: Sprinkle raisins or diced apples inside the roll.
- Chocolate Delight: Swap the cinnamon filling for a chocolate spread.
6. Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Microwave rolls for 15–20 seconds to regain their soft texture.
7. Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like the joy of pulling fresh cinnamon rolls out of the oven. With this foolproof recipe, you’ll create a batch of rolls so delectable, they’ll rival any bakery. From their tender dough to their luscious glaze, these cinnamon rolls are sure to become a family favorite.
8. FAQs
1. Can I make cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the rolls up to the second rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake them fresh in the morning.
2. Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! Freeze unbaked rolls after shaping or baked rolls without glaze. Thaw and bake or reheat when ready.
3. Why didn’t my dough rise?
Check the temperature of your milk and yeast. Yeast that’s too old or milk that’s too hot/cold can prevent proper rising.
4. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, but skip the activation step. Mix instant yeast directly into the dry ingredients.
5. How can I make them dairy-free?
Substitute plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative.