Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Craving the best homemade cinnamon rolls? Discover how to create these easy and delicious treats from scratch that will delight your family and friends. This guide walks you through perfecting the dough, filling it with rich flavors, and achieving that gooey, sweet icing. Whether you prefer classic or unique variations, I have tips for every baker. Dive into this mouthwatering recipe and elevate your baking skills today!

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Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus more for sprinkling)

1/2 cup milk, warmed

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)

1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)

2 tablespoons milk (for icing)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of flour, salt, and cinnamon.

Combine Ingredients: Add the melted butter and eggs to the yeast mixture, then gradually stir in the dry ingredients. Once combined, knead in the remaining cup of flour a little at a time until the dough is smooth and elastic (about 8-10 minutes of kneading).

First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and a sprinkle of cinnamon to create your filling.

Roll Out Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.

Spread Filling: Evenly spread the filling mixture over the rolled dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Roll it Up: Starting from one edge, carefully roll the dough into a log shape. Make sure to roll it tightly for perfect swirls.

Cut Rolls: Slice the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking pan.

Second Rise: Cover the pan with a cloth and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) during this time.

Bake: Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Prepare Icing: While the rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the icing.

Icing the Rolls: Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the icing over the top while they are still warm.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 2 hrs | 12 servings

- Presentation Tips: Serve warm, in the baking dish, optionally garnished with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or chopped nuts. Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate sweet treat!