Classic Cinnamon Rolls
These Classic Cinnamon Rolls are soft, fluffy, and filled with a cinnamon and sugar mixture, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour for a soft and chewy texture
- 1/2 cup sugar for sweetness
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp) to make the rolls rise beautifully
- 1/2 tsp salt for balance
- 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F) ensuring the yeast activates
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened to enrich the dough
- 1 large egg for richness
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract adding depth of flavor
Filling Ingredients
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed to create the perfect cinnamon filling
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon for that quintessential spice
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted for spreading, adding moisture and flavor
Icing Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened essential for a decadent icing
- 2 cups powdered sugar sweetening the icing perfectly
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for icing) elevating the flavor
- 2 tbsp milk (for icing) bringing everything together smoothly
Instructions
Preparation
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently until the yeast dissolves, then let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes, or until bubbly.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until combined.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and allow it to rise for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Assembly
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air, then roll it out into a large rectangle about 16x12 inches.
- Spread the melted butter evenly over the surface of the dough. In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture generously over the buttered dough.
- Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 12 even pieces.
- Place the rolls into the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are close together.
Baking
- Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
Icing
- In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, generously spread the cream cheese icing over the top.
Serving
- Serve these delicious Classic Cinnamon Rolls while warm.
Notes
Always check the temperature of your milk; it should be warm but not too hot. Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to your cinnamon mixture for an extra kick. You can prepare the dough the night before, let it rise in the refrigerator, and then bake them fresh in the morning.