Cinnamon rolls

I finally bring to you here a recipe that has been very much requested by the fans of Mi Diario de Cocina, the famous cinnamon rolls. This is a dough that needs some time to prepare, not because it may be complicated to prepare or anything like that, but because it uses yeast, and therefore it needs to rest for a while. So you must calculate well the times when you want to make them, so that they’re ready at the right moment.

This recipe is quite easy to do, and believe me, they are delicious. I should also mention that they usually go with a frosting on top, i.e. a kind of cream on top that is fairly solid and sweet, but it is optional whether you want to use it or not. But just between you and me, they get tastier with this frosting. Besides, the frosting takes like just a minute to make.

I hope you enjoy this delicious recipe, either for a special mid-afternoon coffee/tea time (or anytime you want, actually), or to share with family.

The Science Behind the Dough

The key to a good cinnamon roll is its risen dough. This type of dough requires patience, love, and time. Fluffy, slightly sweet, soft to the touch, and with a texture that melts in your mouth… all of this is achieved with the right combination of flour, yeast, butter, eggs, and a touch of sugar.

Fermentation is crucial to developing not only the dough’s volume but also its flavor. Letting the dough rest and rise, first in blocks and then once the rolls are formed, allows the yeast to do its work, creating tiny air bubbles that give it that light and airy texture.

An important tip: don’t rush the rise. Often, out of anxiety, we want to get everything in the oven quickly, but the real secret to perfect cinnamon rolls is respecting the timing.

You must be very careful with the yeast. The process is quite simple, but details like dissolving the yeast in very hot water can ruin it.

If you don’t have a thermometer, you should touch the water with your finger and it should feel like it’s not burning you. Just lukewarm.

You should roll the dough well, carefully, but you should leave the roll firm so that it will be easier to make the cuts later.

Once again, I reiterate that in this and other recipes, it is essential to know your oven. If it is too hot or too cold, you may not achieve the ideal cooking of the recipe, resulting in burning the sugar or overcooking the roll itself.

Ingredients That Make a Difference

A cinnamon roll may seem simple, but its perfection depends on the smallest details. Here are some tips to help each ingredient shine:

• Flour: Use all-purpose wheat flour or a blend with strong flour for more elasticity.
• Yeast: Prefer active dry yeast or instant yeast. Make sure it’s fresh (check the expiration date).
• Butter: Using good-quality butter enhances the flavor. Ideally, unsalted butter is ideal for perfect consistency.
• Cinnamon: Use freshly ground cinnamon. It seems like a minor detail, but the intensity of the aroma changes dramatically.
• Brown sugar: In the filling, it adds moisture and a deeper flavor than white sugar.
• Cream cheese: For the frosting, choose a smooth, creamy type. Don’t use light butter, as it won’t achieve the same consistency or flavor.

How to Store and Reheat

Cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed freshly baked, but they can also be stored well:

At room temperature: Up to 2 days in an airtight container.

In the refrigerator: Up to 5 days. Microwave for 15-20 seconds before eating.

In the freezer: You can freeze them already baked (without frosting) for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 160°C for 10 minutes, then add the frosting.

You can also freeze pre-formed rolls (unbaked) and bake them directly after thawing in the refrigerator overnight.

Cinnamon rolls

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• Total Time: 1 hour 25 mins
• Yield: 12 1x

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Ingredients

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FOR THE DOUGH

• 1 cup of warm milk
• 1 pack of powdered yeast (2 teaspoons and a bit more) (7 grams; 1/4 oz)
• 1/2 cup of sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons of melted butter
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 4 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour without baking powder

FILLING

• 2 tablespoons of softened butter
• 1 cup of brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons of ground cinnamon

FROSTING

• 1/2 package of cream cheese (approximately 110 grams; 4 oz)
• 3 tablespoons of soft butter
• 1 cup of powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix the yeast with the milk, let stand for 10 minutes.
2. Meanwhile in the mixer or in a large bowl, mix the eggs, melted butter, sugar and salt. Then add the yeast mixture.
3. Also, gradually start adding the flour, cup by cup.
4. Combine until all ingredients are integrated.
5. Knead the dough for at least 5 minutes. You can also add some flour if necessary.
6. Form a ball and place the dough in a bowl coated with oil. Then cover the bowl, and let the dough stand for 1 hour or until it has doubled its volume.
7. Mix the brown sugar with the cinnamon, leave that mix in a bowl for now.
8. Once the dough is ready, stretch it and give it a rectangular shape (approximately 40 cm x 30 cm; 16 in x 12 in)
9. Spread some butter on top with a brush. Then spread the mixture of brown sugar with cinnamon.
10. Carefully roll the dough. Then cut 12 slices from the roll.
11. Place the slices on a tray that has been previously covered with parchment paper.
12. Let the rolls stand for about 30 minutes, before bringing them to the oven.
13. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
14. Bake for about 20-25 minutes.
15. Meanwhile, prepare the frosting by mixing the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
16. Pour a little bit of frosting on top of each cinnamon roll.

• Prep Time: 60 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins

If you’ve never made them at home, I encourage you to try. Although it may seem like a laborious process, the reward is worth every minute. There are traditional versions and also options for those looking for healthier alternatives, such as using whole-grain flours or natural sweeteners. In a world that sometimes moves too fast, cinnamon rolls invite us to stop, enjoy, and share. They’re more than just a dessert; they’re a way to create memories and connect with those we love most. Are you up for making some and filling your home with sweetness and warmth?