Indulge in the irresistible aroma and taste of homemade cinnamon rolls. These fluffy, buttery pastries are filled with a sweet cinnamon swirl and topped with a creamy, tangy frosting. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat, these cinnamon rolls are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
- For the dough:
- 1 1/4 cups warm milk (110-115°F)
- 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- For the filling:
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
- For the frosting:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup softened cream cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes, or until foamy.
- Prepare the dough: Stir in oil, flour, baking powder, and salt. Knead on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, or until dough is smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Set aside.
- Shape the rolls: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a 12×15-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Roll and cut: Starting from a long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Cut the log into 12 equal slices.
- Rise the rolls: Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Make the frosting: Beat together powdered sugar, cream cheese, butter, milk, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
- Frost and serve: Let the cinnamon rolls cool slightly before frosting. Drizzle frosting over warm rolls and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Cinnamon rolls are best served warm, straight out of the oven. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or brunch. They also make a wonderful dessert when served with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Cooking Tips
- For extra fluffy rolls, let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free environment.
- To prevent the filling from oozing out, make sure the dough is wrapped tightly after adding the filling.
- For a richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of white sugar in the filling.
- Experiment with different fillings, such as apple cinnamon or chocolate chip.
Nutritional Benefits
While cinnamon rolls are considered a treat and high in carbohydrates and sugar, they do provide some nutritional value. Cinnamon has been linked to various health benefits, including blood sugar regulation and improved digestion.
Dietary Information
This recipe contains dairy, wheat, and gluten. To make it dairy-free, use a plant-based butter substitute and a dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe delivers on taste, texture, and simplicity. The combination of fluffy dough, sweet filling, and creamy frosting creates a perfect balance of flavors. The clear instructions and easily accessible ingredients make it a great recipe for bakers of all levels.
Dish Conclusion
These homemade cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that will impress your family and friends. With their irresistible aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they are sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the process of creating these sweet pastries and savor every bite!