The Best Cinnamon Rolls!
These The Best Cinnamon Rolls! are the ultimate treat for any occasion, especially perfect for brunch on Christmas morning. With their soft, fluffy texture and gooey cinnamon filling, these giant rolls are topped with an irresistible cream cheese frosting that will leave everyone wanting more. They are simple to make and incredibly satisfying, making them a must-try for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of warm cinnamon and sweet cream cheese frosting creates a delightful taste experience.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch or a cozy family gathering, these rolls fit right in.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, you’ll have fresh cinnamon rolls without any fuss.
- Customizable Options: Feel free to add nuts or raisins to the filling, or try different frostings for variety.
- Makes Great Leftovers: These rolls can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, perfect for breakfast throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment makes the process easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Plastic wrap
- Wooden spatula
- Hand mixer
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or large mixing bowl: A stand mixer makes kneading easier, but a bowl works well if you prefer kneading by hand.
- Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out your dough evenly, ensuring consistent baking.
- 9×13 inch baking pan: Perfect size for holding all those delicious cinnamon rolls together while they bake.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 cup milk, heated to 110 degrees F
- 2 + 1/4 tsp. active dry yeast
- 1 large room temperature egg
- 2 Tbsp. melted butter, divided
- 4 Tbsp. granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus 2-4 Tbsp
For the Filling:
- 6 Tbsp. softened butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp. ground cinnamon
For the Frosting:
- 4 Tbsp. softened butter
- 4 oz. softened cream cheese
- 2 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
How to Make The Best Cinnamon Rolls!
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
To a large bowl, add in 1 cup warm milk, 2 + 1/4 tsp. active dry yeast, 1 large egg, 1 Tbsp. melted butter, 4 Tbsp. granulated sugar, and 1/2 tsp. salt. Give that a quick whisk until combined. Add in 3 cups all-purpose flour and mix with a wooden spatula until just combined.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Add in an additional tablespoon of flour until the dough is no longer sticky. Knead the dough with your hands for about 3 minutes until smooth. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Filling
Meanwhile, mix together 6 Tbsp. softened butter, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 1 Tbsp. ground cinnamon in a small bowl until well blended.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Once risen, lightly dust your work surface with flour and turn out the dough onto the surface. Roll it into a rectangle measuring approximately 17 x 10 inches. Evenly spread out the cinnamon filling over the dough.
Step 5: Shape the Rolls
Starting from one long edge, roll up the dough tightly into a log shape. Use dental floss to cut into 8 equal-sized rolls.
Step 6: Second Rise and Bake
Place the rolls into a greased 9×13 inch pan, cover with plastic wrap again, and let rise in a warm place for another 30 minutes. Once risen, brush with remaining melted butter and bake at 350 degrees F for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
While cooling slightly (for about 15 minutes), prepare your frosting by beating together in a medium-sized bowl using a hand mixer: 4 Tbsp. softened butter, 4 oz. softened cream cheese, and 2 tsp. vanilla extract until smooth; gradually add in powdered sugar until fully mixed.
Step 8: Frost and Enjoy!
Spread the creamy frosting over slightly warm cinnamon rolls before serving.
Enjoy making these The Best Cinnamon Rolls!, guaranteed to bring smiles around your table!
How to Serve The Best Cinnamon Rolls!
Serving The Best Cinnamon Rolls can elevate any meal, especially during special occasions. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
With Fresh Fruits
- Serve warm cinnamon rolls alongside a mix of fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or bananas. The natural sweetness contrasts perfectly with the gooey rolls.
Drizzled with Maple Syrup
- Add a drizzle of pure maple syrup over the top for an extra touch of sweetness and flavor. It complements the cinnamon beautifully!
Paired with Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy your cinnamon rolls with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warmth and aroma create a comforting brunch experience.
Topped with Ice Cream
- For a decadent treat, serve your cinnamon rolls warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The melting ice cream creates a delightful creamy texture.
Garnished with Nuts
- Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the frosting for added crunch and flavor. It enhances the overall taste and presentation.
How to Perfect The Best Cinnamon Rolls!
Perfecting The Best Cinnamon Rolls requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here are ways to ensure they turn out amazing every time.
-
Use Warm Milk: Make sure the milk is heated to about 110 degrees F. This temperature activates the yeast for fluffy rolls.
-
Knead Thoroughly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This helps develop gluten, which makes the rolls soft.
-
Allow Adequate Rising Time: Let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for light and airy rolls.
-
Cut Evenly: When slicing the rolls, use dental floss for clean cuts. This prevents squishing and maintains their shape.
Best Side Dishes for The Best Cinnamon Rolls!
Pairing side dishes with The Best Cinnamon Rolls can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein and complement the sweet flavors of cinnamon rolls.
- Bacon or Sausage: Crispy bacon or savory sausage links provide a salty contrast that enhances breakfast enjoyment.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and balances out the richness of cinnamon rolls.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that pairs well with sweet treats.
- Smoothies: A refreshing smoothie made from spinach, banana, and almond milk can add nutrition without overpowering flavors.
- Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns give a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with soft cinnamon rolls.
- Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toasted bread provides healthy fats that balance out the sweetness of your dessert.
These delightful sides will make your brunch spread complete!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making The Best Cinnamon Rolls! can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving perfect results.
- Not using warm milk: Cold milk can prevent the yeast from activating properly. Always heat your milk to about 110 degrees F for optimal results.
- Over-kneading the dough: Kneading too long can make the rolls tough. Aim for just 3 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Skipping the rise time: Rushing the rising process will lead to dense rolls. Allow your dough to rise in a warm place for at least 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Improperly measuring flour: Too much flour can dry out your rolls. Use a spoon to scoop flour into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
- Not letting the rolls cool before frosting: Frosting hot cinnamon rolls can cause the icing to melt away. Let them cool for about 15 minutes before spreading that creamy goodness!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing The Best Cinnamon Rolls!
- Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing quality.
Reheating The Best Cinnamon Rolls!
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Place the rolls on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place a roll on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for about 15-20 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover, and reheat for about 5 minutes until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making The Best Cinnamon Rolls!
Can I make The Best Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and filling, then refrigerate overnight before baking them fresh in the morning.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Ensure that your yeast is fresh and that you are using warm milk (around 110 degrees F) to activate it properly.
Can I customize The Best Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
How do I store The Best Cinnamon Rolls after baking?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate them for up to 3 days.
Final Thoughts
These The Best Cinnamon Rolls! are not only perfect for brunch but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their soft, gooey texture topped with cream cheese frosting makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients or toppings, ensuring every bite is just how you like it!
The Best Cinnamon Rolls!
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8 rolls 1x
Description
Indulge in The Best Cinnamon Rolls, a delightful treat that will elevate any occasion, especially your holiday brunches. These soft and fluffy rolls are filled with a gooey cinnamon mixture and topped with creamy frosting, making them an irresistible favorite for family gatherings or cozy mornings. With straightforward instructions, even beginner bakers can create these giant rolls that promise smiles at every bite. Customize them with your favorite nuts or dried fruits for a personal touch, ensuring that each serving is as unique as your celebration.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 + 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 large egg
- 6 Tbsp butter (softened and melted)
- 4 Tbsp granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp ground cinnamon
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Combine warm milk, yeast, egg, melted butter, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Whisk until mixed.
- Stir in flour until combined; knead until smooth. Let rise for one hour covered.
- Mix filling ingredients: softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Roll dough into a rectangle; spread filling evenly.
- Roll tightly, cut into eight pieces using dental floss.
- Place rolls in a greased pan; let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare frosting by mixing softened butter, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Frost warm rolls before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (80g)
- Calories: 303
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 275mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 37mg
