Irresistible Cinnamon Rolls

There’s something utterly enchanting about the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen. The combination of warm dough, rich cinnamon, and sweet frosting creates an irresistible allure that beckons everyone to indulge. Cinnamon rolls have secured their place as a beloved treat, enjoyed at breakfast tables and coffee shops alike. Their soft, pillowy texture and delightful sweetness not only satisfy our taste buds but also evoke warm memories of family gatherings and cozy mornings.

Indulge in the heavenly delight of homemade cinnamon rolls with this engaging guide! Discover the magic behind their fluffy texture, aromatic spices, and creamy frosting. Learn about essential ingredients like yeast, sugar, and all-purpose flour that create these soft swirls of joy. Whether you're a novice or an experienced baker, this step-by-step recipe will help you craft the perfect batch of warm, gooey cinnamon rolls that are sure to delight your family and friends. Embrace the joy of baking and create delicious memories!

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Ingredients

For the Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast

½ cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ cup whole milk, warmed (110°F)

½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled

2 large eggs

For the Filling:

¾ cup brown sugar, packed

2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

½ cup chopped pecans (optional)

½ cup raisins (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1-2 tablespoons milk (for consistency)

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Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until bubbly.

- In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, salt, and cinnamon. Once the yeast mixture is activated, add the melted butter and eggs. Mix well.

- Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until a dough begins to form. Incorporate the remaining flour as needed until the dough is soft but not overly sticky.

Knead the Dough:

- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Make the Filling:

- In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon. If using, mix in the chopped pecans and raisins.

Roll Out the Dough:

- Punch down the risen dough and place it on a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.

- Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly across the surface.

Shape the Rolls:

- Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal, then cut the log into 12 equal pieces.

- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving some space between each roll. Cover and let rise again for about 30 minutes.

Bake:

- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, bake them for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Prepare the Frosting:

- In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy. Add milk as necessary to reach the desired consistency.

Serve:

- Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for about 10 minutes. Drizzle the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls. Serve warm and enjoy the heavenly sweetness!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours | Servings: 12 rolls