Here’s a simple Cinnamon Rolls recipe that makes soft, fluffy rolls with a rich cinnamon-sugar filling. Perfect for breakfast or dessert!
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
For the Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk. Stir lightly and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, melted butter, salt, and eggs. Add the activated yeast mixture and stir to combine. Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing after each addition. Continue to mix until the dough forms and becomes elastic. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment or knead by hand on a floured surface.
- Knead the Dough: If kneading by hand, transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for about 5 minutes.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- Mix the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until you have a smooth, spreadable paste.
3. Assemble the Rolls:
- Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle, about 16×12 inches.
- Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the cinnamon-sugar filling over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll and Cut: Starting from the longer side of the rectangle, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the edges to seal. Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal slices.
4. Second Rise:
- Arrange and Rise Again: Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving some space between each roll. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let them rise again for about 30 minutes, or until they have puffed up and are touching each other.
5. Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat the Oven: While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top. If the tops are browning too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
6. Prepare the Frosting:
- Make the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is well combined and smooth.
7. Frost and Serve:
- Frost the Rolls: Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for about 10 minutes. Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt slightly and seep into the crevices.
- Serve: Serve the cinnamon rolls warm, straight from the pan, or transfer them to a serving platter.
Tips for Success:
- Warm Environment: If your kitchen is cool, you can create a warm environment for the dough to rise by turning on your oven to the lowest setting for a few minutes, then turning it off. Place the covered bowl of dough in the oven with the door slightly ajar.
- Overnight Option: You can prepare the rolls the night before. After arranging them in the baking dish, cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature and rise for 1 hour before baking.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Enjoy your homemade cinnamon rolls! They’re perfect with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk.