Making homemade cinnamon rolls might seem daunting, but this accessible guide breaks down the process into manageable steps, perfect for bakers of all levels. Forget those store-bought versions – let's create warm, gooey, and utterly irresistible cinnamon rolls from scratch!
Getting Started: Ingredients and Equipment
Before we dive into the deliciousness, let's gather our supplies. This recipe makes approximately 12 generous cinnamon rolls.
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 ½ - 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- For the Filling:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- For the Icing:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons milk
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9x13 inch baking pan
- Plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel
- Rolling pin
- Pizza cutter or sharp knife
- Whisk
Step-by-Step Cinnamon Roll Making: A Beginner's Delight
Now for the fun part! Let's bake those cinnamon rolls.
Step 1: Activating the Yeast
In your large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and ¼ cup of sugar. Gently stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. This proves your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!
Step 2: Combining Wet Ingredients
Add the melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Whisk everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Incorporating the Flour
Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a soft dough forms. You might not need all 4 cups; the dough should be slightly sticky but not overly wet.
Step 4: Kneading the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
Step 5: First Rise (Bulk Fermentation)
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Preparing the Filling
While the dough rises, prepare the cinnamon filling. In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth and well combined.
Step 7: Rolling and Shaping
Once the dough has doubled, punch it down gently to release the air. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 12x18 inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
Step 8: Cutting and Placing
Tightly roll the dough up from the long side, like a jelly roll. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the roll into 12 equal slices. Arrange the slices in your prepared 9x13 inch baking pan.
Step 9: Second Rise (Proofing)
Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let the cinnamon rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes, until almost doubled in size.
Step 10: Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 11: Making the Icing
While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, beating until light and fluffy. Adjust the milk for desired consistency.
Step 12: Icing and Enjoying
Once the cinnamon rolls are baked, let them cool slightly before generously icing them. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Yeast is Key: Make sure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough can result in tough cinnamon rolls.
- Warm Environment: A warm place for rising is crucial. You can even put the bowl in a slightly warm oven (turned off).
- Patience is a Virtue: Allow ample time for both rises.
Making homemade cinnamon rolls is a rewarding experience. With a little patience and these simple steps, you’ll be enjoying the most delicious cinnamon rolls you’ve ever tasted! Now go forth and bake!
