Classic Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Classic Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts or raisins (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Icing (Optional but delicious):

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
   • Add melted butter, egg, and salt, and mix well.
   • Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Roll and Fill:
   • Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches).
   • Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
   • Sprinkle nuts or raisins if desired.
   • Starting from one long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log.
4. Cut and Arrange:
   • Cut the log into 12 equal slices and place them in a greased baking dish.
   • Cover and let the rolls rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
5. Bake:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
6. Make the Icing (optional):
   • In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy.
7. Serve:
   • Let the rolls cool for a few minutes, then spread the cream cheese icing on top while they are still warm.

These cinnamon rolls are soft, fluffy, and full of cinnamon flavor, perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of day. Enjoy!