Are you craving a warm, gooey, cinnamon-infused treat that'll transport you straight to baking bliss? Then look no further! This Amish Cinnamon Rolls recipe is a testament to simple ingredients transformed into extraordinary flavor. Forget those dry, store-bought imitations; this recipe delivers the ultimate homemade cinnamon roll experience, perfect for weekend brunches, cozy evenings, or any occasion that deserves a touch of sweetness. It’s surprisingly easy, even for beginner bakers, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals (relatively speaking!). Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with these delicious dishes!
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-4 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Getting Started: Activating the Yeast
- In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and granulated sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to work its magic!
Making the Dough:
- Add the egg and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a soft dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This is crucial for a light and fluffy texture.
Preparing the Filling:
- While the dough is rising, prepare the cinnamon filling. In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth.
Assembling and Shaping the Rolls:
- Punch down the risen dough to release the air. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 12x18-inch rectangle.
- Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
- Tightly roll the dough up from the long side, jelly-roll style.
- Cut the roll into 12 equal slices using a sharp knife.
Second Rise and Baking:
- Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Making the Icing:
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Finishing Touch:
- Once the rolls are baked, let them cool slightly in the pan before drizzling generously with the icing.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of cardamom or nutmeg to the cinnamon filling.
- Use a stand mixer with a dough hook to make kneading easier.
- These rolls freeze beautifully! Wrap them individually and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- You can easily adapt this recipe for a smaller batch, simply adjust the ingredients proportionally.
Nutritional Information (per roll, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
- Sugar: 20-25g
- Protein: 4-5g
These values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Enjoy these delightful Amish Cinnamon Rolls! They are the perfect example of simple, homemade cooking that delivers big on flavor. They're quick dinner ideas if you're looking for a sweet treat to round out your meal and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion. These truly are some of the best recipes you'll find!