Homemade Cinnamon Rolls: Sweet Bliss in Every Bite

Introduction

Cinnamon Rolls are a beloved breakfast and brunch classic, and making them from scratch is a rewarding experience. These soft, gooey, and aromatic rolls are a perfect treat for special occasions or whenever you crave something sweet. Let's dive into how to create these heavenly cinnamon rolls.

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Ingredients You'll Need:

For the Dough:

1 cup warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C)

2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup packed light brown sugar

2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

4 oz (1/2 cup) cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is activated.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, and eggs.

Pour in the activated yeast mixture and stir to combine.

Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it's smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours until it has doubled in size.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.

Roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 16x21 inches in size.

Step 4: Add the Filling

Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough.

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough.

Step 5: Roll and Cut

Starting from the long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log.

Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal slices.

Step 6: Arrange and Rise Again

Place the cinnamon roll slices in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan.

Cover the pan with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the rolls are cooling slightly, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.

Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is creamy.

Step 9: Frost and Enjoy

Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes, but while they are still warm, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top.

Serve your homemade cinnamon rolls warm and enjoy every sweet, gooey bite!

Final Thoughts

These homemade Cinnamon Rolls are a labor of love that will be worth every second you spend making them. The soft, fluffy texture combined with the sweet and aromatic filling and the creamy cream cheese frosting make these rolls an irresistible treat for breakfast or dessert. Enjoy your delightful homemade cinnamon rolls!