Are you craving those warm, gooey, melt-in-your-mouth cinnamon rolls from Panera Bread? Stop dreaming and start baking! This recipe delivers the same irresistible cinnamon roll experience, all from the comfort of your own kitchen. It’s easier than you think, promising a delicious weekend treat or a special breakfast to brighten any day. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade, bakery-quality cinnamon rolls—a perfect addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy(ish) meals.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 ½ - 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
For the Filling:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Icing:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons milk
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This activates the yeast, a crucial step for a successful, fluffy dough.
Make the Dough:
- Add the egg, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Whisk to combine.
- Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy 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 more flour, a tablespoon at a time. This kneading develops the gluten, resulting in tender and delicious rolls.
- 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.
Prepare the Filling & Assemble:
- While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Once the dough has doubled, punch it down gently to release the air. Roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 12x18 inches.
- Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
- Tightly roll the dough from the long side into a log.
- Cut the log into 12 equal slices using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
Bake & Frost:
- Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing. Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until light and fluffy. Add milk, a tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
- Once the cinnamon rolls are baked, let them cool slightly before generously frosting them.
Tips & Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use brown butter in the filling.
- Add nuts: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for added texture and flavor.
- Make it a streusel topping: Create a streusel topping with oats, flour, brown sugar, and butter for extra crunch.
- Overnight rise: For extra convenience, let the dough rise overnight in the refrigerator. Just take it out a couple of hours before baking.
Nutritional Information (per roll, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 18-20g
- Carbohydrates: 45-50g
- Protein: 5-6g
This recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy a delicious treat while practicing homemade cooking. These Panera Bread copycat cinnamon rolls are sure to become a favorite in your household, perfect for quick dinner ideas or a special breakfast. Enjoy!