Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a lazy weekend morning or hosting a holiday brunch, these soft and gooey rolls are sure to impress everyone at the table. With a delightful blend of spices and a rich cream cheese frosting, this recipe stands out as a classic favorite that brings warmth and joy to every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates a delightful filling that melts in your mouth.
• Easy to Follow: With clear steps, even beginner bakers can master this recipe and enjoy homemade treats.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These rolls are great for breakfast, dessert, or even as an afternoon snack.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or raisins to the filling for extra texture and flavor!
• Serves a Crowd: This recipe yields multiple rolls, making it ideal for sharing with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather your essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer (optional)
• Microwave-safe measuring cup
• Large mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife or dental floss
• Baking dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Helps knead the dough quickly and efficiently, saving you time and effort.
• Rolling pin: Ensures an even thickness when rolling out your dough, essential for uniform cinnamon rolls.
• Baking dish: Provides the right space for your rolls to rise and bake perfectly without sticking.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 1 cup milk (whole)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup sugar (granulated)
• 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 standard sized packet)
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (+ extra for kneading)
• 1½ teaspoon salt

For the Filling

• 4 tablespoons butter (salted, melted)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (firmly packed)
• 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

For the Frosting

• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 1½ cups confectioner’s sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 tablespoons butter (reserved to brush on hot rolls before adding frosting)

How to Make Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

1. Pour milk into a microwave-safe liquid measuring cup.
2. Add vegetable oil and granulated sugar to the milk.
3. Heat in the microwave just until it’s under boiling (about 2 minutes), stirring to dissolve sugar.
4. Allow it to cool until it reaches about 105°F.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a large bowl or stand mixer bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and salt.
2. Set aside while your wet ingredients cool.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Once cooled, add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients.
2. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

1. Knead by hand or use a stand mixer on low speed for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. The dough will be somewhat sticky but should hold together well.

Step 5: First Rise

1. Cover the bowl with a damp towel.
2. Place in a warm spot (the inside of an unheated oven with light on works well).
3. Let rise for about 1 – 1½ hours until doubled in size.

Step 6: Make Filling

1. Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl (about 30 seconds).
2. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and ground cinnamon with a fork until combined.

Step 7: Roll Out Dough

1. Turn out dough onto a lightly floured surface.
2. Roll it into a rectangle approximately 12 x 18 inches in size.

Step 8: Add Butter and Filling

1. Pour melted butter over rolled-out dough, spreading evenly.
2. Sprinkle brown sugar mixture evenly over buttered surface.

Step 9: Roll Up Log

1. Gently roll the dough from one long side to form a log shape.

Step 10: Cut Cinnamon Rolls

1. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut dough into equal-sized rolls.

Step 11: Transfer Rolls to Baking Dish

1. Melt additional butter in your baking dish; grease bottom and sides.
2. Arrange rolls in dish with swirls facing up.

Step 12: Second Rise

1. Cover with kitchen towel; let rise another 30-60 minutes.

Step 13: Bake

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Bake cinnamon rolls for about 15-18 minutes until lightly golden brown.

Step 14: Make The Icing

1. In a bowl, combine room temperature icing ingredients; beat until smooth.

Step 15: Brush With Butter

1. As soon as rolls come out of oven, brush with reserved melted butter.

Step 16: Frost Cinnamon Rolls

1. Spread icing generously over warm rolls for extra gooeyness.

Enjoy your delicious Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls!

How to Serve Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Serving your Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls is just as important as making them. A well-presented roll can elevate the experience, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

Classic with Icing

• Drizzle your favorite icing over the warm cinnamon rolls for a deliciously sweet finish that enhances the flavors.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside fresh berries or sliced bananas to add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the rolls.

Pair with Coffee

• Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or tea; the warmth of the beverage complements the gooey texture of the cinnamon rolls beautifully.

Ice Cream Topping

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent dessert twist that melts over the warm rolls.

Add Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor, making each bite even more satisfying.

How to Perfect Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Perfecting your Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls takes practice and attention to detail. Follow these tips to achieve bakery-quality results at home.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your yeast is fresh for proper rising; expired yeast can lead to dense rolls.
• Knead Thoroughly: Kneading develops gluten, giving your rolls a light and airy texture. Aim for 8-10 minutes of kneading.
• Watch the Temperature: Scalding milk correctly is crucial; too hot can kill the yeast, while too cold won’t activate it properly.
• Let Them Rise: Allow sufficient time for both rises; this enhances flavor and texture. Don’t rush this step!
• Brush with Butter: Brushing melted butter before baking adds richness and helps achieve that golden-brown color.
• Experiment with Fillings: Try adding nuts, raisins, or different spices like nutmeg to customize your cinnamon rolls.

Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls can create a complete meal or brunch experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances sweetness.

2. Scrambled Eggs
   Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and complement the sweetness of the rolls perfectly.

3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy, crunchy contrast that pairs well with cinnamon flavors.

4. Breakfast Sausages
   Turkey or chicken sausage offers a savory option that complements sweet cinnamon nicely.

5. Hash Browns
   Crispy hash browns add texture and heartiness to your breakfast table, balancing out sweet rolls.

6. Smoothie Bowl
   A refreshing smoothie bowl topped with seeds and nuts makes for a nutritious side that contrasts nicely with rich cinnamon rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls Recipe experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold milk or butter can hinder yeast activation. Always warm your liquids to about 105°F for optimal results.
• Skipping the first rise: Not allowing the dough to rise properly will lead to dense rolls. Ensure you give it time in a warm environment until it doubles in size.
• Overworking the dough: Kneading too much can toughen your rolls. Aim for a smooth, elastic texture without going overboard.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can result in burnt edges or doughy centers. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Improper measurements can throw off the balance of flavors. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially with flour and sugar.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your cinnamon rolls in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place rolls on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet on low heat, cover, and warm each roll for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls Recipe gooey?

To achieve gooey cinnamon rolls, brush melted butter over them right after they come out of the oven before adding frosting.

Can I substitute almond milk in this recipe?

Yes! You can use almond milk instead of whole milk. Just ensure it’s warm when mixed with other ingredients.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough doesn’t rise, check that your yeast is fresh and that your liquid was not too hot or too cold.

How can I customize my Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls Recipe?

Consider adding nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips to the filling for added flavor and texture.

Can I prepare these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and fill it; then refrigerate overnight before baking in the morning.

Final Thoughts

These Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls Recipe are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite fillings or toppings. Whether enjoyed at breakfast or as a sweet treat throughout the day, they are sure to delight anyone who tries them!