Step-by-Step Recipe for Delicious Cinnamon Rolls

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen. These soft, gooey treats are the perfect treat for breakfast or anytime you’re craving something sweet. Making cinnamon rolls from scratch may seem daunting, but with this step-by-step recipe, you’ll be whipping up a batch in no time!

Ingredients:
– 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
– ½ cup warm milk
– ¼ cup water
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg

For the Filling:
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– ¾ cup light brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Frosting:
– 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, salt, and instant yeast. In another bowl, whisk together the warm milk, water, melted butter, and egg. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, light brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined.

Step 3: Roll and Fill the Dough
Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle shape, about ¼ inch thick. Spread the filling mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Starting from the long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces.

Step 4: Bake the Cinnamon Rolls
Place the cinnamon roll slices into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or a round cake pan. Cover with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the rolls have risen, bake them for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 5: Prepare the Frosting
While the cinnamon rolls are baking, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract and continue beating until well combined.

Step 6: Frost the Cinnamon Rolls
Once the cinnamon rolls are slightly cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. You can serve them warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your homemade, gooey cinnamon rolls with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. These treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a dessert. The combination of the soft, buttery dough, sweet cinnamon filling, and creamy frosting is sure to satisfy your cravings. With this step-by-step recipe, you’ll become a pro at making delicious cinnamon rolls in no time!