Before diving into the delightful world of cinnamon rolls, let’s discuss some fantastic pairings to enhance your experience. Picture this: a warm, gooey cinnamon roll fresh out of the oven, perhaps alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea. The rich, buttery notes of the cinnamon rolls blend beautifully with a robust coffee.
Alternatively, a glass of cold milk can bring a refreshing balance—the creaminess contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of the rolls. For a lighter touch, a citrusy herbal tea can cleanse your palate and add a hint of brightness to the experience. Don’t forget a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which melts over the warm roll, creating an indulgent dessert that’s hard to resist.
What Are Cinnamon Rolls?
Cinnamon rolls are sweet, spiral pastries made from a dough enriched with butter and sugar, generously filled with a blend of cinnamon and sugar, and topped with a luscious icing.
They’re typically served warm and can be enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. The combination of the fluffy interior, spicy-sweet filling, and creamy icing creates an experience that transcends mere sustenance—it’s pure comfort.
What Does It Taste Like?
The taste of cinnamon rolls is an exquisite blend of flavors and textures. Imagine biting into a soft, warm roll, where the fluffy dough melts in your mouth. The filling, made with rich cinnamon and sugar, bursts with a sweet warmth that balances the softness of the bread.
Topped with a cream cheese frosting, every bite is a delightful experience—sweet, buttery, and slightly tangy. It’s no wonder these treats are beloved in so many cultures!
Why This Recipe Works
1. The right balance of ingredients:
This recipe harmonizes perfectly between the dough, filling, and icing. Using high-quality ingredients, like unsalted butter and pure vanilla extract, makes all the difference.
2. The use of instant yeast:
Utilizing instant yeast speeds up the rising process without compromising texture. This means your rolls will be ready in a fraction of the time while still being fluffy and delicious.
3. The combination of warm milk and butter:
Warm milk activates the yeast and helps develop a soft texture. The melted butter adds richness and moisture to the dough, creating that heavenly softness we all crave.
4. Cream cheese icing goodness:
Top it off with a cream cheese icing that complements the spice of the cinnamon and the sweetness of the roll. It transforms these rolls into an elevated dessert!
Ingredients for Cinnamon Rolls
For the dough:
1/4 cup (50g) white granulated sugar
2 and 3/4 cups (344g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled, plus more for dusting as needed
3 tablespoons (43g) unsalted butter, melted
3/4 cup (180ml) warm whole milk
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 large egg, room temperature
2 and 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (such as Platinum Yeast by Red Star or equivalent – 1 packet)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional for flavor)
For the filling:
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom or nutmeg (optional, enhances the spice depth)
1 tablespoon fragrant ground cinnamon
3 tablespoons (43g) very soft unsalted butter
1/3 cup (67g) packed light or dark brown sugar
For the cream cheese icing:
1–2 teaspoons milk or cream (optional, for desired drizzling consistency)
1 teaspoon real vanilla extract
2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, softened
4 ounces (113g) cream cheese block, full-fat, softened to room temperature
2/3 cup (80g) powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Dough
Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a mixing bowl, combine the warmed milk with the sugar and melted butter. Then, sprinkle the instant yeast on top, allowing it to dissolve for about five minutes. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. After the yeast mixture is frothy, add the egg and incorporate it well. Now, gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients. Stir until a dough begins to form.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Once combined, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook to make this easier.
Step 4: Let It Rise
Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, covering it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, usually about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Step 5: Make the Filling
While waiting for the dough, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and optional spices. Set it aside.
Step 6: Roll the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently. Roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the very soft butter over the surface of the dough, followed by the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Step 7: Form the Rolls
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and arrange them in a greased baking dish.
Step 8: Second Rise
Cover the rolls with a towel again and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes. During this time, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 9: Bake the Rolls
Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until they’re golden brown. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
Step 10: Prepare the Icing
While the rolls bake, mix together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Add milk as necessary for desired consistency.
Step 11: Ice and Serve
Once the rolls are baked, let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Drizzle the cream cheese icing over the warm cinnamon rolls and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Notes
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the egg and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing.
Don’t Overmix: When combining dough, mix just until everything is incorporated.
Check Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary; use an oven thermometer to ensure correct temperature.
Frozen Rolls: You can freeze unbaked rolls. Just let them thaw and rise before baking.
Adjust Sugar Levels: Feel free to adjust the sugar in the filling to suit your taste.
Nutrition Information
Each cinnamon roll, without icing, contains approximately:
Calories: 220
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Protein: 4g
Sugar: 8g
How to Store the Leftovers?
Store your cinnamon rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap individual rolls in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months.
Sides for Cinnamon Rolls
1. Fresh Fruit:
Pair your rolls with seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or bananas. They bring a refreshing sweetness and balance the richness of the rolls.
2. Yogurt:
A side of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang, cutting through the sweetness. Drizzle some honey or add a sprinkle of nuts for extra flavor.
3. Bacon:
For those who love sweet and savory, crispy bacon or sausage links make an excellent protein-packed companion to the rolls.
4. Coffee or Tea:
Choose a robust coffee or a delicate herbal tea. These beverages enhance the flavors of the cinnamon rolls while complementing the overall experience.
Alternative Choices for Ingredients
1. Gluten-Free Flour:
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets. Just ensure it has the necessary binding agents.
2. Plant-Based Butter:
For a dairy-free version, swap out the unsalted butter for a plant-based alternative.
3. Almond Milk:
Substituting whole milk with almond or oat milk offers a different flavor profile while keeping the rolls moist.
4. Maple Syrup:
As an alternative to granulated sugar, consider using maple syrup in the dough for a delightful natural sweetness.
Conclusion
Cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that can brighten any day. With a rich history and versatile applications, they continue to be a timeless favorite. This recipe provides a straightforward path to a delicious batch, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying on your own. So, roll up your sleeves and embrace the joy of homemade cinnamon rolls! Enjoy the process and, of course, the sweet, sweet results. Happy baking!
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Cinnamon Rolls – Delicious Meal Ideas
Description
Ah, cinnamon rolls! The mere thought of them conjures up sweet memories of family gatherings and lazy Sunday mornings. As a food enthusiast and registered dietitian, I find the joy of baking cinnamon rolls is paralleled only by the delight felt when sharing them with others.
Cinnamon rolls are not just a treat; they use a comfort food that can spark joy and connection. In this blog, I’ll take you through the enchanting world of cinnamon rolls—from their flavors to the science behind why this recipe works so well. By the end of this journey, you’ll be equipped with a delicious recipe and all the tips you need for that perfect bake.
Ingredients
For the dough:
For the filling:
For the cream cheese icing:
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Dough
-
Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a mixing bowl, combine the warmed milk with the sugar and melted butter. Then, sprinkle the instant yeast on top, allowing it to dissolve for about five minutes. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
-
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. After the yeast mixture is frothy, add the egg and incorporate it well. Now, gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients. Stir until a dough begins to form.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
-
Once combined, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook to make this easier.
Step 4: Let It Rise
-
Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, covering it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, usually about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Step 5: Make the Filling
-
While waiting for the dough, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and optional spices. Set it aside.
Step 6: Roll the Dough
-
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently. Roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the very soft butter over the surface of the dough, followed by the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Step 7: Form the Rolls
-
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and arrange them in a greased baking dish.
Step 8: Second Rise
-
Cover the rolls with a towel again and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes. During this time, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 9: Bake the Rolls
-
Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until they’re golden brown. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
Step 10: Prepare the Icing
-
While the rolls bake, mix together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Add milk as necessary for desired consistency.
Step 11: Ice and Serve
-
Once the rolls are baked, let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Drizzle the cream cheese icing over the warm cinnamon rolls and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 220kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 7g11%
- Total Carbohydrate 36g12%
- Sugars 8g
- Protein 4g8%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the egg and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining dough, mix just until everything is incorporated.
- Check Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary; use an oven thermometer to ensure correct temperature.
- Frozen Rolls: You can freeze unbaked rolls. Just let them thaw and rise before baking.
- Adjust Sugar Levels: Feel free to adjust the sugar in the filling to suit your taste.
