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Christmas Miracle: Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
Introduction
There’s something magical about the smell of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen, especially around the holidays. Cinnamon rolls, those soft, gooey delights, have been a holiday favorite for centuries. Whether it’s the perfect way to start Christmas morning or a comforting treat to share with family, these cinnamon rolls are sure to become a beloved tradition in your home. And if your mother-in-law asks for the recipe, you know you’ve done something right!
These cinnamon rolls are incredibly easy to make from scratch and perfect for beginners or seasoned bakers. The process may take some time, but trust me, every minute of waiting is worth it. A Christmas miracle indeed!
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 ¼ teaspoons)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, warm the milk in the microwave or on the stovetop until it’s about 110°F (a little warmer than body temperature). Stir in the yeast and a pinch of sugar. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
- Add the sugar, butter, and salt to the yeast mixture and stir to combine. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the flour, one cup at a time, until a dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
2. Make the Cinnamon Filling:
- While the dough rises, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter in a small bowl. Set aside.
3. Roll Out the Dough:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll the dough out into a large rectangle about 16×12 inches.
- Spread the cinnamon-butter mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border on the edges.
4. Roll and Cut the Cinnamon Rolls:
- Starting from the long edge of the rectangle, carefully roll the dough up into a tight log.
- Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the dough into 12 even rolls.
- Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.
5. Second Rise:
- Cover the rolls with a clean towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes, or until they puff up nicely.
6. Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the rolls have finished rising, bake them for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
7. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- While the rolls are baking, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl until smooth and fluffy.
8. Frost and Serve:
- Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top.
- Serve warm, and watch as your guests devour them in delight!
History of Cinnamon Rolls:
Cinnamon rolls have their roots in Scandinavia, with early versions dating back to the 17th century. They were originally known as “kanelbullar” in Sweden, and their popularity spread to the U.S. in the 1920s. But it wasn’t until the rise of the American breakfast tradition that cinnamon rolls gained their iconic status. These rolls are often associated with Christmas morning, especially in countries like Sweden, Finland, and Denmark, where they are typically enjoyed with coffee during the holiday season.
The addition of cream cheese frosting is an American twist that became popular in the 1980s. Now, cinnamon rolls are a universal treat, beloved by people of all ages, especially during the holidays.
The Method:
The method for making these cinnamon rolls is simple, but it involves patience and a bit of time. The dough rises twice—first after you mix it, and again after you shape it—allowing for those tender, fluffy rolls. The filling of butter, sugar, and cinnamon melts into the dough as it bakes, creating those beautiful, gooey swirls. The cream cheese frosting on top adds just the right amount of tang and sweetness, balancing the spiced richness of the rolls.
Lovers of Cinnamon Rolls:
Cinnamon rolls aren’t just a treat—they’re a symbol of love. They bring families together, create unforgettable mornings, and leave memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these rolls are meant to be shared. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or even some eggnog for the perfect holiday breakfast or dessert. Trust me, no one will leave the table without a smile.
Conclusion:
These homemade cinnamon rolls are more than just a recipe; they’re an experience. The rise of the dough, the swirl of cinnamon, and the smooth, indulgent frosting come together to create a dish that’s worthy of a Christmas miracle. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even an afternoon snack. Plus, you can make them ahead of time and bake them the next morning, making them an ideal choice for the busy holiday season.
So the next time your mother-in-law asks for the recipe, know that you’ve truly made something special. And just maybe, you’ll be gifting her a little piece of Christmas magic!
Enjoy baking and eating these delicious rolls—your kitchen will never smell more festive!