The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. These cinnamon rolls are characterized by their pillowy soft texture, the perfect blend of cinnamon sugar filling, and a luscious cream cheese frosting that will leave you craving more. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Pillowy Texture: These cinnamon rolls are incredibly soft and fluffy, making each bite a pleasure.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve success.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a breakfast item or a sweet snack any time of day.
• Decadent Frosting: The cream cheese frosting adds a rich finish that elevates these rolls to the next level.
• Great for Sharing: This recipe yields 12 rolls, perfect for gatherings or cozy family breakfasts.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your cinnamon rolls, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer with dough hook attachment
• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish (9×13 inch)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer with dough hook attachment: Makes kneading the dough effortless, ensuring a perfect texture without tiring your hands.
• Baking dish: A good quality dish ensures even baking and helps achieve that golden-brown color on your rolls.

Ingredients

The best easy cinnamon rolls made with pillowy soft bread, the perfect amount of cinnamon sugar filling, and a luscious cream cheese frosting.

For the Dough

• 1 1/3 cup whole milk (320g)
• 4 teaspoons active dry yeast (or instant yeast)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
• 5 cups all purpose flour (650g)
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (113g)

For the Cinnamon Filling

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (113g)
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed (200g)
• 2 tbsp cinnamon powder
• 3/4 tsp salt

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 1/2 cup heavy cream (120g), room temp
• 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature (113g)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (56g)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (60g)
• 1 cup icing sugar (100g)

How to Make The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a small saucepan, gently heat the whole milk until warm but not boiling. Remove from heat.
2. Sprinkle in the yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
3. In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer bowl, combine granulated sugar, flour, eggs, salt, and melted butter.
4. Pour in the yeast mixture and mix until combined.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

1. If using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, knead on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
2. Alternatively, turn out onto a floured surface and knead by hand for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: First Rise

1. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap or a towel.
2. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

1. In another bowl, combine softened butter with light brown sugar, cinnamon powder, and salt until well mixed.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

1. After rising, punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface.
2. Roll it into a large rectangle about ¼ inch thick.

Step 6: Add Filling

1. Spread the filling evenly over the rolled-out dough.
2. Starting from one long edge, roll up tightly into a log.

Step 7: Cut Rolls

1. Slice into 12 equal pieces using dental floss or a sharp knife.

Step 8: Second Rise

1. Place rolls in a greased baking dish and cover again to rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 9: Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 10: Make Frosting

1. Beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add icing sugar while mixing; pour in heavy cream to reach desired consistency.

Step 11: Frost & Serve

1. Drizzle frosting over warm cinnamon rolls before serving.
2. Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Serving cinnamon rolls is an art that enhances their delightful flavors. Here are some creative suggestions to make your experience even better.

Warm with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Freshly baked rolls topped with a generous layer of cream cheese frosting create a deliciously sweet and tangy treat.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• Add a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet and rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon filling.

Served with Fresh Fruit

• Pair your cinnamon rolls with sliced strawberries or bananas for a refreshing contrast that balances the sweetness.

Accompanied by Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cinnamon rolls alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea to enhance their comforting qualities.

Topped with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the frosting for added crunch and flavor that complements the soft rolls.

How to Perfect The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Creating perfect cinnamon rolls is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your rolls turn out fantastic every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ingredients like eggs and butter should be at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Knead the Dough Properly: Knead until smooth and elastic, which helps develop gluten for fluffy rolls.

• Let Dough Rise in a Warm Place: A warm environment helps the dough rise effectively, making the rolls light and airy.

• Don’t Skip the Cream Cheese Frosting: This frosting adds a creamy texture and tanginess that elevates your cinnamon rolls.

• Store Leftovers Correctly: Keep any leftover rolls in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Reheat before serving for best results.

Best Side Dishes for The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your cinnamon rolls can elevate your meal. Here are some ideas that complement their sweetness beautifully.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits provides bright flavors that balance the richness of the rolls.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layered yogurt with granola and berries creates a creamy, crunchy contrast that’s refreshing.

3. Scrambled Eggs
   Fluffy scrambled eggs offer protein and savory notes, making them a satisfying addition.

4. Sausage Patties
   Mild turkey sausage patties add a savory element that pairs well with sweet cinnamon flavors.

5. Oatmeal
   A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with fruits adds heartiness while still being sweet enough to match the rolls.

6. Smoothie Bowl
   A thick smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds provides healthy fats and texture alongside your indulgent cinnamon rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final outcome.

• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold milk or eggs can hinder yeast activation. Always use room temperature ingredients to ensure a good rise.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can lead to dense rolls. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
• Skipping the first rise: Rushing through the rising process can result in tough rolls. Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size for the best texture.
• Overbaking: Baking for too long can dry out your cinnamon rolls. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven when they are golden brown.
• Ignoring frosting temperature: Adding frosting while the rolls are too hot will make it melt away. Let them cool slightly before applying frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• For optimal freshness, place parchment paper between layers.

Freezing The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

• Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for best results.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm rolls for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat a roll on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place a roll in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

You can use whole wheat flour, but it may alter the texture. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for better results.

How do I know when my dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size. A simple test is to poke it with your finger; if it springs back slowly, it’s ready.

Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to the second rise, cover them, and refrigerate overnight. Bake them fresh in the morning!

What can I substitute for heavy cream in the frosting?

You can use full-fat coconut milk or a non-dairy creamer as an alternative to heavy cream while still achieving a creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe offers delightful flavors and soft textures that appeal to everyone. Perfect as a breakfast treat or dessert, these rolls are customizable with various fillings like nuts or raisins. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy your delicious homemade cinnamon rolls!