There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the house. It reminds me of lazy Sunday mornings spent with my family, gathered around the table, laughter filling the room. The first time I made these rolls was during a snowy winter, when my kids and I decided to turn a chilly day into a cozy baking adventure. We rolled out the dough, sprinkled on the cinnamon and sugar, and watched as the rolls transformed into golden-brown spirals in the oven. Each bite was a delightful hug of warmth and sweetness, and it quickly became a cherished family tradition. Now, let me share this delightful recipe that will surely bring joy to your kitchen and create sweet memories.
Ingredients
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1 cup warm milk (110°F)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk (for icing)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, giving your rolls that perfect rise.
Add melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture, stirring until well combined. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size. This is the time to daydream about the delicious rolls you’re about to enjoy!
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle approximately 1/4 inch thick. Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon evenly on top.
Carefully roll the dough tightly from one long edge to the other, creating a log. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish, spacing them slightly apart. Cover the dish and allow the rolls to rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and smell heavenly. The anticipation will be almost unbearable!
While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing by mixing powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.
When the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before drizzling the icing generously over the top. Serve warm and enjoy the smiles that come with each delicious bite!
These heavenly cinnamon rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any occasion that calls for a touch of sweetness and warmth. Remember, the best part of baking is sharing, so gather your loved ones and create unforgettable memories around the table!