Giant Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Recipe: A Weekend Baking Project You'll Love
Are you ready to experience the ultimate baking satisfaction? This recipe delivers a giant, fluffy cinnamon roll that's guaranteed to impress. Forget those tiny, underwhelming rolls; we're talking a cinnamon roll behemoth, perfect for sharing (or not!). This recipe focuses on achieving maximum fluffiness and that irresistible cinnamon-sugar swirl. Let's get baking!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a weekend baking project.
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 (½ stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4-4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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
- 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2-4 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions: Getting Started
Activating the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
Mixing the Dough: Add the egg, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, 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.
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. A warm oven (with the light on) is a great place for this.
Assembling Your Giant Cinnamon Roll
Preparing the Filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
Rolling it Out: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle (approximately 18x24 inches).
Spreading the Love: Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough.
Rolling it Up: Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log.
The Final Cut: Using a sharp knife, cut the log in half lengthwise. Then, gently twist the two halves together and place them in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan.
Second Rise (Proofing): Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
Baking and Icing Your Masterpiece
Baking Time: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooling Down: Let the cinnamon roll cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before icing.
Making the Icing: While the roll is cooling, prepare the icing. Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, beating until light and fluffy.
Icing Magic: Once the roll has cooled slightly, drizzle the icing generously over the top. Let the icing set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for Success
- Use quality ingredients: This significantly impacts the taste and texture of your cinnamon roll.
- Don't over-knead the dough: This can result in a tough roll.
- Let the dough rise properly: This is crucial for achieving maximum fluffiness.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the roll: This will prevent the layers from separating.
- Don't be shy with the icing: More icing is always better!
Enjoy your giant, fluffy cinnamon roll! It’s perfect for a special breakfast, brunch, or even a decadent dessert. Share your baking adventures with us! #GiantCinnamonRoll #Baking #WeekendBaking #CinnamonRollRecipe #FluffyCinnamonRolls
