The BEST Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Introduction
If you’re a fan of sweet, gooey, and irresistible treats, then you’re in for a treat with this recipe for the best cinnamon rolls. These homemade cinnamon rolls are soft, fluffy, and packed with fragrant cinnamon flavor. Whether you’re looking to impress your family on a lazy Sunday morning or indulge in a delicious dessert, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
To make these mouthwatering cinnamon rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 2 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 and 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Steps
Here’s how to make these delectable cinnamon rolls:
1. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, instant yeast, granulated sugar, and salt.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the milk, water, and melted butter until warm (about 110°F). Add this mixture and the egg to the flour mixture. Stir until well combined.
3. Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until the dough forms a soft ball and begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl.
4. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface, about 12×16 inches.
7. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the cinnamon and brown sugar over the butter. If desired, sprinkle raisins and chopped nuts over the sugar.
8. Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
9. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover with a kitchen towel, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
10. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
11. While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
12. Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls.
Variations
There are endless possibilities for customizing your cinnamon rolls. Here are a few delicious variations you can try:
– Cream Cheese Frosting: Instead of the glaze, top your cinnamon rolls with a creamy and tangy cream cheese frosting.
– Apple Cinnamon Rolls: Add thinly sliced apples or apple pie filling to the cinnamon and sugar mixture before rolling up the dough.
– Nutella Swirl Rolls: Spread a layer of Nutella over the dough before sprinkling the cinnamon and sugar mixture.
– Pumpkin Spice Rolls: Incorporate pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice into the dough for a delightful fall twist.
Tips
– Make sure the yeast is fresh and active to ensure a proper rise of the dough.
– For extra fluffy cinnamon rolls, let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size.
– If you prefer a less sweet cinnamon roll, reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or skip the glaze altogether.
– To reheat leftover cinnamon rolls, place them in a microwave for a few seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.
Conclusion
These homemade cinnamon rolls are the epitome of comfort and indulgence. The soft and fluffy dough, combined with the sweet and aromatic cinnamon filling, makes them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack, these cinnamon rolls are sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
FAQs
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before proceeding with the recipe.
2. Can I freeze the cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! After baking the cinnamon rolls, allow them to cool completely. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature or reheat in the microwave or oven.
3. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour may result in a denser texture and slightly different flavor.
4. Can I omit the raisins and nuts?
Of course! The raisins and nuts are optional additions to the cinnamon rolls. Feel free to customize them according to your preferences or dietary restrictions.
