Cinnamon Rolls: Quick and Simple Guide
Summary:
With their soft, tender texture and warm cinnamon-sugar swirl, these cinnamon rolls are a breeze to make. With simple pantry ingredients and clear, friendly steps, you’ll bake a batch of homemade rolls that smell like comfort and taste like a treat. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cosy snack.
Equipment:
– Large mixing bowl
– Whisk
– Wooden spoon or spatula
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Rolling pin
– Sharp knife
– 9×13-inch baking dish
– Parchment paper
– Kitchen towel
– Oven mitts
– Cooling rack
Ingredients:
**For the dough:**
– 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
– ¾ cup (180 ml) warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 large egg, room temperature
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
– ½ teaspoon acceptable salt
– Zest of ½ orange (about one teaspoon)
**For the filling:**
– ¼ cup (50 g) unsalted butter, softened
– ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– Zest of ½ lemon (about one teaspoon)
**For the glaze:**
– 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons milk
– ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– ½ teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. **Activate the Yeast (5 minutes)**
In the mixing bowl, whisk warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. This step wakes up the yeast and starts the magic.
2. **Make the Dough (5 minutes)**
Stir in egg, melted butter, flour, salt, and orange zest. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
3. **Knead & Rest (10 minutes)**
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Shape into a ball, place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel and let rise in a warm spot for 20 minutes until doubled.
4. **Prepare the Filling & Roll (5 minutes)**
On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 12×8-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface. Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon zest; sprinkle evenly.
5. **Form the Rolls (5 minutes)**
Starting at a long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch seam to seal. Slice into 12 even rolls with a sharp knife.
6. **Second Rise (15 minutes)**
Line the baking dish with parchment. Place rolls cut-side up, leaving space. Cover with a towel and let rise 15 minutes until puffy.
7. **Bake to Golden (20 minutes)**
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake rolls 18–20 minutes until golden on top and cooked through.
8. **Glaze & Cool (5 minutes)**
Whisk powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls. Let them sit for 5 minutes so the glaze sets.
9. **Serve Warm (2 minutes)**
Use a spatula to lift rolls onto plates. Enjoy the gooey centres and crisp edges while warm.
– **Milk Temperature**: Aim for 105–115°F (40–46°C) to activate yeast without killing it.
– **Room Warmth**: Let dough rise in a cosy spot—oven off with light on works well.
– **Even Slices**: Dust your knife with flour to cut clean rolls.
– **Make Ahead**: Cover and refrigerate overnight after the second rise. Bake fresh in the morning.
History of Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Cinnamon-spiced pastries date back to medieval kitchens where sweet spices were prized. The modern roll likely evolved in Sweden (“kanelbulle”) and spread worldwide as bakers adapted local ingredients and techniques. Cinnamon rolls’ sweet and spicy flavours have been enjoyed for centuries, making them a beloved treat in many cultures.
Why You’ll Love Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
You’ll love the soft layers of dough, the sweet cinnamon swirl, and the citrus notes that brighten each bite. This guide breaks down every step so you feel confident, even if you’re new to baking.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
– Keep ingredients at room temperature for even mixing.
– Don’t overload with filling—small swirls bake more evenly.
– Let the rolls brown slightly for added caramel notes.
– Glaze while rolls are warm for best absorption.
Flavor Variations Of Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
– Add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling.
– Swap lemon zest for orange zest in the glaze.
– Stir 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom with cinnamon for spice depth.
– Replace glaze with cream cheese frosting for extra richness.
Serving Suggestions For Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Serve cinnamon rolls with hot coffee or tea for a cosy treat. Pair with fresh fruit or yoghurt for balance. Wrap leftovers in foil and reheat gently for next-day enjoyment.
Final Thoughts About Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
I perfected these rolls over many mornings, fine-tuning sugar and zest until they felt just right. I wrote this guide like chatting with a friend—warm, clear, and encouraging.
Behind the Scenes: Personal Story
My favourite batch came from an early winter morning when the comforting smell of baking filled the house as snow fell outside. The bright zest cut through the sweetness, making those rolls unforgettable. Now, they mark special mornings for family and friends.