CINNAMON ROLLS 

How to Make Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic on the dough.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and salt. Stir until well combined. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing after each addition until the dough starts to come together.

Once the dough is mixed, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If you have a stand mixer with a dough hook, you can use it for this step.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This is the first rise, which will give your rolls their soft, fluffy texture.

Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

While the dough is rising, make the cinnamon filling. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Mix until smooth and spreadable. Set aside.

If you’re adding nuts like pecans or walnuts, chop them and set them aside as well.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a rectangle about 18 x 12 inches. The dough should be about 1/4-inch thick.

Step 6: Add the Cinnamon Filling

Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving about a half-inch border along the edges. If you’re using nuts, sprinkle them over the cinnamon filling at this stage.

Step 7: Roll and Slice the Dough

Starting at one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Once it’s rolled up, use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal slices. Each slice should be about 1 1/2 inches wide.

Step 8: Second Rise

Arrange the cinnamon rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure they’re placed snugly together. Cover the dish with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the rolls rise for about 30-45 minutes until they’ve puffed up.

Step 9: Bake the Cinnamon Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the rolls are finishing their second rise. Once they’ve risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through. The tops should be slightly firm to the touch.

Step 10: Frost and Serve

While the cinnamon rolls are baking, you can prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk to get the consistency you desire.

Once the rolls are done baking, let them cool for about 5 minutes before spreading the frosting generously over the top. The warmth of the rolls will melt the frosting, creating a delicious, gooey glaze.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls

• Don’t rush the rises: Be sure to allow the dough time to rise fully, as this is what gives the rolls their soft, pillowy texture.
• Add-ins: Feel free to customize the filling with raisins, chopped apples, or even a little maple syrup for extra sweetness.
• Make-ahead option: If you want to make these rolls the night before, you can assemble the rolls, place them in the baking dish, and cover them tightly. Let them rise in the fridge overnight, and bake them fresh in the morning.
• Freezing: You can freeze unbaked cinnamon rolls (before the second rise) for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before popping them in the oven.

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast or Brunch: These cinnamon rolls are perfect for breakfast or brunch, especially with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa.
• Dessert: Serve these rolls as a sweet dessert after dinner, or alongside a bowl of fresh fruit for a lighter option.
• Gift Idea: Wrap them up in a nice box or tin and give them as a homemade gift for the holidays or birthdays.

Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Rolls

Nothing beats the soft, gooey goodness of homemade cinnamon rolls. The combination of the tender, buttery dough and the sweet, cinnamon filling is simply irresistible. With the added bonus of a rich cream cheese frosting, these cinnamon rolls are a treat you’ll want to make again and again.

Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced pro, this cinnamon rolls recipe will become your new go-to for an indulgent, crowd-pleasing dessert or breakfast. Try it today, and enjoy the delicious, homemade goodness of fresh-baked cinnamon rolls!