Oh my goodness, have I got a treat for you today! I can hardly contain my excitement as I share my absolutely adored recipe for Soft & Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls — also known as homemade cinnamon buns that you simply cannot resist!
Let me tell you, there’s something pretty magical about the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the house. They remind me of chilly Sunday mornings at my grandma’s house, where the whole family would gather around the kitchen table with warm mugs of coffee and plates piled high with these delightful rolls. We’d slather them with butter and enjoy the gooey goodness together. Now, every time I make them, I feel that same warmth and love and it lights up my heart!
So, let’s roll (quite literally) into the world of homemade cinnamon rolls that are sure to impress everyone — friends, family, or even just you because, hey, you deserve this deliciousness too!
What’s in Soft & Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls?
All-purpose flour: This is the foundation of our dough. I usually prefer unbleached flour, but any all-purpose will do. Just make sure it doesn’t have any weird additives!
Granulated sugar: A little sweet for the dough to encourage yeast activation. You could use coconut sugar if you’re feeling fancy!
Active dry yeast: The magical ingredient that makes our dough rise and gives these rolls that dreamy texture. I always grab a packet from the store, just make sure it hasn’t expired.
Salt: Essential for flavor! It enhances the sweetness of the cinnamon and sugar, trust me.
Milk: Slightly warmed to help our yeast bloom beautifully. I prefer whole milk for a richer flavor, but whatever you have will work.
Water: Again, warm! This helps create a cozy environment for the yeast.
Unsalted butter: So much flavor and richness. We’ll be using this both melted in the dough and softened for spreading. But definitely stick with unsalted to control the salt levels!
Egg: This helps bind the dough and gives it a lovely texture. Make sure it’s at room temperature for optimal mixing!
Brown sugar: You know, for that caramel-like sweetness that takes these rolls to the next level.
Ground cinnamon: The star of the show! The more cinnamon, the better if you ask me!
Optional: Icing: Just a combination of powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. I can’t resist drizzling it on top for an extra sweet finish.
Is Soft & Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls Good for You?
Now, let’s be real here. These cinnamon rolls aren’t exactly what the health gurus would call a “superfood,” but they do have some redeeming qualities!
Active dry yeast: Provides B vitamins, and the fermentation process can even aid digestion. Not exactly like eating kale, but hey, we all deserve to indulge occasionally!
Whole milk: Packs a calcium punch, which is great for healthy bones.
But, let’s not kid ourselves
— these are indulgent. They contain sugar, butter, and carbs, which is why they are so incredibly delicious! Every once in a while, let yourself enjoy a cinnamon roll. Life is too short not to savor the sweet moments!
Ingredients List
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk, warmed
– 1/4 cup water, warmed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for spreading)
– Optional: icing for drizzling (powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract)
This recipe will yield about **12 fluffy and decadent cinnamon rolls.**
How to Make Soft & Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls?
1. In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, warm water, and melted butter. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture, add a pinch of sugar, and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it’s frothy and bubbly.
2. In another large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center, add the yeast mixture and the egg, and mix everything together until a dough starts to form.
3. Knead that dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If you’re feeling fancy, use a stand mixer with a dough hook on medium speed.
4. Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size. (I usually crank up the oven for a minute and turn it off before placing the bowl inside, perfect cozy spot!)
5. Once it’s risen, go ahead and punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 16×12 inches).
6. Spread the softened butter over the dough. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon, and sprinkle it evenly on top of the buttered dough.
7. Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch to seal the edge and slice into 12 equal pieces.
8. Place those rolls in a greased baking dish or round pans, cover them again, and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until nice and puffy.
9. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for about 25-30 minutes or until they’re golden brown and calling your name.
10. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. If you’re feeling extra, drizzle your favorite icing made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract over the warm rolls.
Rollin’ into Additional Tips!
– These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but who am I to judge if you can’t wait until breakfast to indulge?
– For a twist, you can add chopped nuts or raisins inside for extra flavor and texture.
– If you want to be super clever, you can freeze the formed but unbaked rolls. Just pop them into the oven fresh whenever you’re craving homemade cinnamon rolls!
I really encourage you to try out this recipe! The joy of pulling apart those warm, gooey cinnamon rolls is pure bliss. Share your delightful experiences with me and let me know how they turned out — happy baking, my friend!
