Homemade Cinnamon Buns: A Delicious, Step-by-Step Recipe
Are you craving warm, gooey cinnamon buns? Forget the store-bought kind – this recipe will guide you through making delicious, homemade cinnamon buns from scratch. This recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike, ensuring a sweet treat that's sure to impress. Get ready to bake up a batch of pure cinnamon roll heaven!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe breaks down into two parts: the dough and the cinnamon filling. Let's start with the dough:
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 and slightly cooled
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 ½ - 4 cups all-purpose flour
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Let's get baking! Follow these steps carefully for perfect cinnamon buns:
Making the Dough:
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the 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.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the egg and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands 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 about 5 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.
Preparing the Filling:
- Soften the Butter: Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. This will ensure it spreads easily.
- Mix Filling Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well until thoroughly incorporated.
Assembling and Baking the Cinnamon Buns:
- Roll Out the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a large rectangle (approximately 12x18 inches).
- Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the cinnamon filling over the rolled-out dough.
- Roll Up the Dough: Tightly roll the dough from the long side into a log.
- Slice and Place: Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 equal slices.
- Arrange in Pan: Place the cinnamon buns in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Second Rise: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Glaze (Optional): While still warm, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh ingredients: This will ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Don't over-knead the dough: This can result in tough cinnamon buns.
- Let the dough rise properly: This is crucial for achieving a light and fluffy texture.
- Adjust baking time: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your buns and adjust baking time as needed.
Enjoy Your Homemade Cinnamon Buns!
These homemade cinnamon buns are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Their warm, spiced aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture will make them a new family favorite. Share your baking adventures and tag us in your photos! Remember to share this recipe with your friends and family – happy baking!