Cinnamon Roll Recipe

A cinnamon roll is a type of pastry that is typically made with a sweet dough that is rolled out, spread with butter, cinnamon, and sugar, and then rolled up into a spiral shape. The roll is then sliced into individual portions and baked until golden brown. Cinnamon rolls are often topped with a sweet glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. They are a popular breakfast pastry in many countries and are often served warm and fresh from the oven. Cinnamon rolls are also sometimes referred to as cinnamon buns or cinnamon swirls.

What is the secret ingredient in Cinnamon?

Cinnamon is a spice derived from the inner bark of trees belonging to the genus Cinnamomum. It is widely used in cooking and baking around the world due to its warm, sweet, and aromatic flavor. While cinnamon does not have a secret ingredient, the quality and flavor profile of cinnamon can vary depending on the specific species of cinnamon used, as well as the processing method.

Ceylon cinnamon, also known as "true cinnamon," is a higher quality and more expensive variety of cinnamon compared to cassia cinnamon, which is more commonly used in the United States. Ceylon cinnamon has a lighter color, thinner bark, and a sweeter, more delicate flavor profile, while cassia cinnamon has a reddish-brown color and a more pungent, slightly bitter taste. The specific variety of cinnamon used in a recipe can have a significant impact on the overall flavor and aroma of the dish.

Cinnamon Roll Recipe

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3/4 cup milk, warm
• 2 large eggs

For the filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon

For the glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2-3 tbsp milk

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, warm milk, and eggs.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a damp towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
7. In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon to make the filling.
8. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
9. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
10. Roll up the dough tightly from one end to the other to form a log. Pinch the seam together to seal.
11. Cut the log into 12-15 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.
12. Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
13. While the cinnamon rolls are baking, make the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to make a smooth, pourable consistency.
14. Once the cinnamon rolls are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
15. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls and serve.

Enjoy your homemade cinnamon rolls!