Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen. These homemade cinnamon rolls are the ultimate indulgence, featuring soft, fluffy dough, a gooey cinnamon-sugar filling, and a luscious cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re treating yourself to a weekend breakfast, hosting a brunch, or simply satisfying a sweet craving, these cinnamon rolls are sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
For the filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the cream cheese frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tbsp of the granulated sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy.
- Stir in the remaining sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour and salt to the bowl, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, about 18×12 inches.
- Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
- Cut the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.
- Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, cover with a towel, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Remove the cinnamon rolls from the oven and let them cool for 5-10 minutes before spreading the frosting over the warm rolls.
Flavor Profile
These homemade cinnamon rolls offer a delightful balance of sweet, spicy, and rich flavors. The soft, pillowy dough provides the perfect canvas for the gooey, aromatic cinnamon-sugar filling. As the rolls bake, the filling caramelizes and creates a sticky, irresistible center that’s bursting with warm, cozy notes of cinnamon and brown sugar.
The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy, creamy counterpoint to the sweetness of the rolls, while the vanilla extract and pinch of salt help to balance and enhance the overall flavor profile. Each bite is a heavenly combination of tender dough, gooey filling, and luscious frosting that will leave you craving more.
Serving Suggestions
These cinnamon rolls are best served warm, straight from the oven. They make a delightful addition to any breakfast or brunch spread, and pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or cocoa. For an extra indulgent treat, serve them with a side of crispy bacon or fresh fruit.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. To reheat, simply microwave individual rolls for 15-20 seconds, or until warm and gooey.
Variations
- Orange Cream Cheese Frosting: Add 1 tbsp of orange zest to the cream cheese frosting for a bright, citrusy twist.
- Pecan Sticky Buns: Sprinkle chopped pecans over the cinnamon-sugar filling before rolling up the dough, and replace the cream cheese frosting with a sticky caramel glaze.
- Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls: Add 1 tsp of pumpkin pie spice to the filling, and replace 1/2 cup of the flour with pumpkin puree for a festive fall version.
- Vegan Cinnamon Rolls: Substitute the milk, butter, and eggs with plant-based alternatives, and use a vegan cream cheese for the frosting.
Conclusion
These homemade cinnamon rolls are a true labor of love, but the end result is well worth the effort. With their soft, fluffy dough, gooey cinnamon-sugar filling, and tangy cream cheese frosting, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re enjoying them on a lazy weekend morning or sharing them with friends and family, these cinnamon rolls are the perfect way to show your love and appreciation.
So go ahead and treat yourself to a batch of these delectable cinnamon rolls. Savor the aroma, indulge in the flavors, and create lasting memories with the people you love. After all, life is too short not to enjoy the simple pleasures, and these homemade cinnamon rolls are definitely one of them.