Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls filling your home. This Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is for anyone who loves soft, fluffy, and gooey cinnamon rolls, topped with a rich cream cheese icing. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, this recipe will guide you to create the perfect batch of cinnamon rolls that will impress your family and friends. So, let’s get started!

Ingredients Overview

To make these delightful cinnamon rolls, you’ll need a few basic ingredients, most of which are probably already in your kitchen.

For the Dough:

• 4-5 cups (480g-600g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled – The base for your rolls, providing structure and texture.
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness to the dough.
• 2 & ¼ teaspoons (1 package) instant yeast – Helps the dough rise, giving it a fluffy texture.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• ¾ cup (180mL) water – Provides moisture, necessary for dough development.
• ½ cup (120mL) whole milk – Adds richness and softness to the dough.
• ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, cut into 4 slices – Adds flavor and tenderness.
• 1 large egg, at room temperature – Helps bind the ingredients and contributes to a soft dough.

For the Filling:

• 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, very soft – Ensures a rich, buttery filling.
• ¾ cup (150g) packed brown sugar, light or dark – Adds sweetness and a slight molasses flavor.
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon – The star spice that gives these rolls their signature flavor.

For the Cream Cheese Icing:

• 4 ounces (115g) block cream cheese, room temperature – Creates a creamy, tangy icing.
• 5 tablespoons (70g) unsalted butter, room temperature – Adds a rich, smooth texture to the icing.
• 1 & ½ cups (195g) powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the icing.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Adds a hint of warm, aromatic flavor.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make these cinnamon rolls, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:

• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Rolling pin
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Serrated knife or unflavored dental floss
• Electric mixer (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Dough: Mixing and Kneading Techniques

Begin by combining 3 cups of flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Whisk the dry ingredients together and set them aside. In a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine the water, milk, and sliced butter. Microwave in 10-second intervals until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm (not hot).

Whisk the egg into the warm water mixture. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the flour mixture. Use a wooden spoon to mix until you have a thick, sticky dough. Add another cup of flour and continue to mix until the dough starts to form a ball.

2. Kneading the Dough

Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook on medium speed. Continue kneading, adding small amounts of flour as needed, until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. The dough should spring back when poked. Cover the dough and let it rest for 20 minutes to relax the gluten.

3. Rolling Out the Dough

Once rested, turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a 14×10 inch rectangle. Try to shape the dough evenly, but don’t worry about perfection. The dough should be about ¼ inch thick.

4. Spreading the Filling Evenly for the Best Flavor

Spread the softened butter over the rolled-out dough, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter, followed by the ground cinnamon. Use your hands to spread the mixture evenly.

5. Cutting and Arranging the Rolls

Start rolling the dough from the longer side, creating a tight log. Trim about ½ inch off each end for uniform rolls, if desired. Use a serrated knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12 even rolls. Arrange them cut side up in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.

Proofing and Baking the Rolls

1. Proofing for Fluffy Results

Cover the rolls with a clean towel and let them proof in a warm place for about 45 minutes or until they double in size. An ideal proofing place is inside an unheated oven, away from drafts.

2. Baking Tips for Golden-Brown Perfection

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls are proofed, uncover them and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly while you prepare the icing.

Making the Cream Cheese Icing

Combine the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla extract in a medium-sized bowl. Use an electric mixer on low speed to incorporate the ingredients, then increase to medium speed until the icing is smooth and creamy. Spread the icing over the warm cinnamon rolls, allowing it to melt slightly and create a gooey topping.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the cinnamon rolls warm, straight out of the oven, for the best experience. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. Pair them with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk to complement their rich flavors.

Storing Leftovers

To store any leftover cinnamon rolls, place them in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or a warm oven before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Dense Rolls: Be careful not to add too much flour during kneading; the dough should remain slightly tacky.
• Overproofing or Underproofing: Ensure the dough doubles in size during the proofing step, but do not let it sit for too long.

Recipe Tips and Variations

• Add Nuts or Raisins: Mix in chopped nuts or raisins for added texture and flavor.
• Make Them Vegan: Substitute plant-based butter, milk, and cream cheese for a vegan-friendly version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the rolls suitable for gluten-intolerant guests.

FAQ Section

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dough and complete the first proofing, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Let the dough come to room temperature before proceeding with the recipe.

What if I don’t have instant yeast?
You can use active dry yeast instead. Let the yeast bloom in the warm water and milk mixture for 5-10 minutes before adding it to the dry ingredients.

Conclusion

With this Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe, you’ll enjoy warm, fluffy, and gooey rolls that taste like they came from a bakery. Follow these steps, and you’re sure to impress anyone who tries them! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes.

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