Cinnamon Rolls
Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. Cinnamon rolls are the epitome of comfort food, combining soft, fluffy dough with a sweet cinnamon filling and a creamy glaze. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, these delightful rolls promise to warm your heart and fill your kitchen with their irresistible aroma. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that will surely become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Here is the list of ingredients.
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tbsp cream cheese (for glaze)
- 1-2 tbsp water (for glaze)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 12 cinnamon rolls. Preparation time is about 30 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 25-30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each cinnamon roll (serving size: 1 roll) contains approximately 250 calories, 10g of fat, 35g of carbohydrates, 5g of protein, and 15g of sugar. This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a bowl, warm the milk until it’s lukewarm, then dissolve the yeast in it.
- Add sugar, softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the milk mixture and mix well.
- Gradually incorporate the flour until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread softened butter over the dough and sprinkle with cinnamon and brown sugar.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking pan and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- While baking, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, cream cheese, and water until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, coconut sugar can replace regular sugar for a lower glycemic index. For a dairy-free version, use almond milk and omit the butter or use a plant-based alternative.
Serving and Pairings
Cinnamon rolls can be served warm, drizzled with cream cheese glaze. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, and can also be enjoyed alongside fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating
To store cinnamon rolls, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, place them in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not letting the dough rise enough can lead to dense rolls.
- Using too much flour can make the dough tough.
- Overbaking the rolls will dry them out.
- Not using fresh yeast can prevent proper rising.
- Skipping the glaze can result in a less appealing presentation.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add nuts or raisins to the filling.
- Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom.
- Cover the rolls while they rise to maintain moisture.
FAQs
Can I make cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls and refrigerate them overnight. Just let them rise and bake in the morning for fresh rolls.
How do I know when my cinnamon rolls are done?
Cinnamon rolls are done when they are golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed.
What can I use instead of cream cheese in the glaze?
You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the glaze.
Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?
Absolutely! Follow your machine’s instructions for dough preparation, then continue with the rolling and baking steps.
How do I prevent my rolls from drying out?
To keep your rolls moist, ensure they are covered while cooling and store them in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that can transform any day into a special occasion. With their soft, fluffy texture and sweet cinnamon flavor, they are perfect for sharing with family and friends. Try this recipe and enjoy the comforting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls in your home!
Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 packet 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar for glaze
- 2 tbsp cream cheese for glaze
- 1-2 tbsp water for glaze
Instructions
- Warm the milk until lukewarm, then dissolve the yeast in it.
- Add sugar, softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the milk mixture and mix well.
- Gradually incorporate the flour until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread softened butter over the dough and sprinkle with cinnamon and brown sugar.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking pan and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, cream cheese, and water until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls before serving.
