Are you dreaming of a dessert that's both incredibly comforting and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This recipe for Cinnamon Roll Clouds, a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls, will become your new go-to for satisfying sweet cravings. Imagine fluffy, cinnamon-sugar-drenched clouds of pastry, nestled in a pool of luscious, homemade heavy whipping cream. Sounds heavenly, right? Let's dive in and create this delicious and easy dessert together!
Ingredients:
For the Cinnamon Rolls:
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 ½ - 4 cups all-purpose flour
- Filling:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Heavy Whipping Cream:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Making the Cinnamon Rolls:
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and granulated sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and will create a beautifully risen dough.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the egg and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add flour and salt, mixing with a wooden spoon or a stand mixer with a dough hook until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for 5-7 minutes.
- 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 ½ hours, or until doubled in size. This is crucial for achieving a light and airy texture.
- Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, combine softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Mix until well blended.
- Roll and Fill: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a large rectangle (approximately 12x18 inches). Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
- Shape and Cut: Tightly roll the dough from the long side into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal slices.
- Second Rise: Arrange the cinnamon roll slices in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size. This secondary rise is key to achieving that perfect fluffy texture.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Making the Heavy Whipping Cream:
- Whip it Good: In a chilled bowl, beat the cold heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- Sweeten and Flavor: Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip!
Serving:
Once the cinnamon rolls are baked and slightly cooled, generously drizzle with the luscious homemade whipped cream. Serve immediately and enjoy every bite of this delicious and easy dessert!
Cooking Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use brown butter in the cinnamon filling.
- You can add chopped nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips to the filling for extra indulgence.
- If you don't have a stand mixer, you can easily knead the dough by hand.
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish; allow space between the cinnamon rolls for even baking.
Variations:
- Maple Cinnamon Rolls: Replace the brown sugar with maple sugar for a delicious maple twist.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Top the baked rolls with a cream cheese frosting for an extra layer of decadence.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 400-450 Fat: 20-25g Carbohydrates: 50-60g Protein: 5-7g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This recipe is perfect for a weekend treat, a special occasion, or simply a comforting dessert any day of the week. Enjoy the process of homemade cooking and the delicious results!