In the pantheon of breakfast treats and pastries, nothing commands the respect or the same mouth-watering desire as Classic Cinnamon Rolls. The rich buttery rolls enveloping the warm cinnamon sugar and covered with the luscious vanilla icing is truly heavenly. These are the kind of treats you break out for special occasions or for when you want an ordinary morning to feel special. Classic Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for brunches or for just admiring bite by bite.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 package instant yeast
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large egg
For the filling:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
For the frosting:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk, plus more as needed
Directions
Step 1 –Lightly grease a bowl.
Step 2 –In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast together until evenly dispersed. Set aside.
Step 3 –In a small microwavable bowl, heat the water, milk, and 2 tablespoons of the butter together in the microwave until the butter is melted, about 30-45 seconds.
Step 4 –Stir the butter mixture into the flour mixture.
Step 5 –Add the egg and knead by hand or with a stand mixer until the dough is no longer sticky, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 6 –Place the dough in the prepared bowl and let rest for about 5 minutes.
Step 7 –Preheat the oven to 200 degrees F.
Step 8 –Turn the oven off after 10 minutes or just before placing rolls in the oven.
Step 9 –Lightly grease a 9-inch or square pan.
Step 10 –After the dough has rested for 5 minutes, roll it out in a 9×15-inch rectangle.
Step 11 –Spread the softened butter on top of the rectangle.
Step 12 –Mix together the cinnamon and sugar. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar all over the butter on the dough.
Step 13 –Roll up the dough tightly and cut into 9 (large) even pieces.
Step 14 –Place the sliced rolls into the prepared pan.
Step 15 –Lightly cover the pan with aluminum foil.
Step 16 –Place the cinnamon buns in the still-warmed but off oven to rise for 20 minutes.
Step 17 –Keep the buns in the oven, but remove the foil.
Step 18 –Turn on the oven to 375 degrees F.
Step 19 –Bake until the cinnamon rolls are golden, about 15-20 minutes.
Step 20 –Mix the powdered sugar, vanilla, and 2 tablespoons milk together until smooth and lump-free.
Step 21 –Remove the rolls from the oven and top with the frosting. You want to do this while the rolls are still warm to ensure they drape perfectly.
Step 22 –Serve when cool enough to eat!
