Classic Cinnamon Rolls
Delightful warm and fluffy cinnamon rolls, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy afternoon snack.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour This forms the fluffy base of your rolls.
- 1/2 cup sugar To add that perfect touch of sweetness.
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp) This will help your rolls rise beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp salt A vital component that enhances flavor.
- 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F) This activates the yeast for the perfect texture.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened Adding richness and flavor to the rolls.
- 1 large egg Providing structure and moisture.
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract Infusing the dough with a lovely aroma.
Filling Ingredients
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed Bringing that deep, caramel-like sweetness.
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon For classic, warm spiciness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted To ensure your filling sticks perfectly to the dough.
Icing Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened Forming a luscious icing.
- 2 cups powdered sugar For sweetness and that signature creamy icing texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for icing) Bulking up that lovely flavor.
- 2 tbsp milk (for icing) To achieve the right consistency for spreading.
Instructions
Dough Preparation
- Combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Stir until well blended and let sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until no dry flour remains.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Transfer the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- After rising, punch the dough down, roll it out into a rectangle of approximately 16x12 inches.
- Spread melted butter generously over the surface of the dough, then sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon evenly on top.
- Roll the dough tightly from one edge into a log shape and slice into 12 even pieces.
- Place the slices in the prepared baking dish, leaving space between each roll.
- Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
Icing Preparation
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing: beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
- Once baked, allow the rolls to cool slightly before spreading the cream cheese icing on top.
Serving
- Serve warm and enjoy each blissful bite!
Notes
Ensure your milk is warm but not hot to preserve the yeast’s potency. For variations, consider adding nuts, raisins, or lemon zest.