On a chilly Sunday morning, the aroma of warm cinnamon and sweet dough wafted through my kitchen, wrapping around me like a cozy blanket. I remember the first time I tried to make cinnamon rolls; it was a snowy day, and I was determined to create a treat that would not only warm my home but also warm my heart. After a few trials, I stumbled upon the perfect combination of spices and sweetness that would make these rolls a family favorite. The secret ingredient? A hint of nutmeg and a drizzle of maple syrup that elevates these rolls to pure bliss.
Ingredients
Dough:
4 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup whole milk, warmed
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
Filling:
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
Maple Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
In a mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, and sugar. Stir in the instant yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. Add the eggs and mix well.
Gradually incorporate the flour and salt into the mixture, kneading until a soft dough forms. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour as you knead. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it has doubled in size.
While waiting, prepare the filling by mixing the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl until well combined. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar filling onto the buttered surface, making sure to cover it generously.
Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Once they are out of the oven, let them cool slightly while you prepare the frosting.
For the frosting, beat together the cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth. Add the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Adjust the sweetness to your taste.
Spread the luscious maple cream cheese frosting generously over the warm cinnamon rolls, allowing it to melt into every crevice. Serve while still warm, savoring the delight of each fluffy, spiced swirl.
These cinnamon rolls have a way of bringing people together, whether for a cozy breakfast or a special occasion. Each bite is a reminder of that snowy day and the joy of creating something truly special. Enjoy every mouthful!