Cinnamon rolls are a beloved sweet treat that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. This recipe for easy cinnamon rolls is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. The rolls are soft, fluffy, and packed with cinnamon sugar goodness, topped with a creamy glaze. In this recipe, I’ll show you how to make these irresistible treats that are sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients for Easy Cinnamon Rolls:
For the dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
For the filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the glaze:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
How to Make Easy Cinnamon Rolls:
- Prepare the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
- Make the Dough: To the yeast mixture, add melted butter, remaining sugar, salt, eggs, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until well combined. Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until the dough forms a soft ball.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon to make the filling.
- Roll Out the Dough: Punch down the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 16×21-inch rectangle.
- Add the Filling: Spread the filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll Up the Dough: Starting from the long edge, roll up the dough tightly, then pinch the seam to seal.
- Cut the Rolls: Cut the rolled dough into 12-15 slices.
- Place the Rolls in a Pan: Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, cover with a kitchen towel, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake the Rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Glaze the Rolls: Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls and serve.
About the Main Ingredients:
- Yeast: Yeast is used to help the dough rise and become light and fluffy. Active dry yeast is activated by warm liquid and sugar, creating bubbles of carbon dioxide that cause the dough to rise.
- Flour: All-purpose flour is used to make the dough. It provides structure and texture to the rolls.
- Butter: Butter adds flavor and richness to the dough and filling. It also helps to create a tender texture in the rolls.
- Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is the key flavor in cinnamon rolls, giving them their warm and spicy flavor.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar is used in the dough, while brown sugar is used in the filling. Both sugars add sweetness and help to create a caramelized filling.
These easy cinnamon rolls are a delicious treat that is sure to impress your friends and family. Serve them warm for a comforting and indulgent treat.
