Are you craving warm, gooey cinnamon buns but short on time? This recipe is your answer! Forget hours of kneading and rising; we're making delicious cinnamon buns using frozen bread dough – a game-changer for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. This easy recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimum effort, making it a perfect addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals (in moderation, of course!). Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its most satisfying!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (16 ounces) frozen bread dough, thawed
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-4 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
While the bread dough thaws completely (following package instructions), prepare the cinnamon filling. In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the ground cinnamon. This simple step creates the heart of the flavor for your delicious dishes.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough is thawed, gently roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, about 12x18 inches. Don't worry about perfect precision; a rustic shape adds charm!
Step 3: Spread the Filling
Evenly spread the cinnamon-sugar butter mixture over the rolled-out dough. Try to get it to the edges for maximum flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Roll and Slice
Tightly roll the dough into a log, starting from the longest side. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1-inch thick buns.
Step 5: Bake the Buns
Place the buns cut-side up in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Pour the milk and vanilla extract over the buns. This adds moisture and enhances the overall flavor. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 6: Make the Glaze
While the buns are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2-4 tablespoons of milk until smooth. Add more milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Glaze and Serve
Let the buns cool slightly in the pan before glazing. Drizzle the powdered sugar glaze generously over the warm cinnamon buns. Let them cool completely before serving and enjoy your easy, homemade treat!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Buns:
- Thaw Completely: Ensure the dough is fully thawed before rolling it out; otherwise, it will be difficult to work with.
- Don't Overbake: Keep a close eye on the buns while they bake to prevent them from becoming dry.
- Get Creative with Fillings: Experiment with different fillings, such as pecans, raisins, or a cream cheese swirl.
Variations:
- Mini Cinnamon Rolls: Roll the dough into a smaller log and slice into smaller buns for a delightful appetizer.
- Cinnamon Swirl Bread: Instead of slicing the log, bake it whole as a cinnamon swirl bread.
Nutritional Information (per bun, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Protein: 4-5g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This simple recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that don't require hours in the kitchen. Enjoy the ease and satisfaction of homemade cooking with these quick cinnamon buns, a perfect addition to your list of best recipes. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon treat.