Certainly! Here’s a step-by-step guide to making delicious homemade cinnamon rolls:
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of flour, granulated sugar, salt, and yeast.
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk and unsalted butter over low heat until the butter is melted. Remove from heat and let it cool until it’s warm but not hot.
- Add the milk mixture and eggs to the dry ingredients. Stir until a soft dough forms.
- Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/4 cup at a time, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a small bowl, mix together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.
Step 3: Roll and Fill the Dough
- Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the filling mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Step 4: Roll the Dough
- Starting from one long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log.
- Pinch the seam to seal and place the log seam side down.
Step 5: Cut the Rolls
- Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal-sized rolls.
- Place the rolls, cut side down, in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.
Step 6: Let Rise Again
- Cover the rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm place for another 30-45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Step 7: Bake the Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until creamy and well combined.
Step 9: Frost the Rolls
- Once the rolls are baked and slightly cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting over the tops while they’re still warm.
- Serve the cinnamon rolls warm and enjoy!
These homemade cinnamon rolls are sure to be a hit with family and friends. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delicious snack any time of day. Enjoy!