Enjoy the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls with this amazing recipe! These soft, fluffy rolls are infused with cinnamon sugar goodness and topped with a decadent cream cheese icing. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful treat any time of day, these cinnamon rolls will surely become a family favorite. Let’s dive into making these irresistible cinnamon rolls from scratch.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Rolls
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 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 Cream Cheese Icing:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How to Make Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, eggs, salt, and 2 cups of flour.
- Add the yeast mixture and mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Roll and Fill the Dough
- Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 16×21 inch rectangle.
- Spread softened butter evenly over the dough.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the buttered dough.
- Starting with the long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
Step 3: Cut and Arrange Rolls
- Cut the rolled dough into 12-15 even slices using a sharp knife or dental floss.
- Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan or two 9-inch round pans.
- Cover the rolls with a clean towel and let them rise again in a warm place for 30-45 minutes.
Step 4: Bake the Cinnamon Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly in the pan.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Icing
- In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until creamy and smooth.
Step 6: Frost and Serve
- Spread the prepared cream cheese icing over the warm cinnamon rolls.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, gooey goodness!
About the Main Ingredients
Yeast
Yeast is essential for leavening the dough, creating soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls. Active dry yeast needs to be dissolved in warm liquid to activate and produce carbon dioxide, which causes the dough to rise.
Cinnamon
Ground cinnamon adds warmth and flavor to the filling of the cinnamon rolls. It pairs perfectly with brown sugar and butter, creating that classic cinnamon roll taste.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese is the base of the creamy icing that tops the cinnamon rolls. It adds richness and tanginess, balancing the sweetness of the rolls and providing a smooth texture.
Butter
Butter is used in both the dough and the filling, enhancing flavor and contributing to the soft, tender texture of the rolls. It also adds richness and moisture to the dough, making the rolls irresistible.
These homemade cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that will fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of cinnamon and sweetness. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying on a cozy morning, these cinnamon rolls are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Treat yourself to these decadent delights and savor each bite of warm, freshly baked goodness!
