Step-by-step instructions
- In a large bowl, mix flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt until combined.
- In a saucepan, heat the milk and 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat until warm and melted. Remove it from the heat.
- Pour the warm milk-butter mixture into the dry ingredients. Add the egg and stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, roughly 1 hour.
- Once risen, roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the melted butter evenly across the surface and sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll the dough tightly from one end to the other and cut into 12 rolls.
- Arrange the rolls in a greased pan and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While the rolls bake, prepare the cream cheese icing by mixing together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle the icing over the warm cinnamon rolls and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
These easy cinnamon rolls are best served warm, straight out of the oven. Pair them with a steaming cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for the ultimate comfort treat. You might even consider serving them alongside fresh fruit for a delightful contrast in flavors. Enjoy them plain, or add some chopped nuts or dried fruit to the filling for a twist!
Storage and reheating tips
To store your cinnamon rolls, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the rolls (without icing) in a sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply pop them in a microwave for 15–30 seconds or warm them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Helpful cooking tips
For a lighter roll, be sure not to over-knead the dough; a soft and slightly sticky dough will yield fluffier rolls. If you’re short on time, you can also prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight, bringing it back to room temperature before rolling.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with your cinnamon roll flavors! Try adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even a hint of orange zest to the filling for a refreshing twist. For a festive touch, you might consider using pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon for a seasonal variation.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare these cinnamon rolls?
From start to finish, the preparation and rising process take about 2 to 3 hours, depending on how warm your kitchen is.
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes! While all-purpose flour works best, you can experiment with bread flour for an even chewier texture.
How can I make these cinnamon rolls more decadent?
Consider adding a layer of cream cheese filling beneath the cinnamon mixture or a generous drizzle of icing on top!
By following this guide, you’ll master the art of making Easy Cinnamon Rolls that are bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy baking these from-scratch delights, and happy feasting!
