Cinnamon Buns
Indulge in the warm, aromatic goodness of homemade cinnamon buns. This classic treat is perfect for breakfast or dessert, featuring soft dough swirled with a rich cinnamon filling and topped with creamy icing. The heavenly aroma will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as a sweet afternoon snack, these cinnamon buns are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
- 2 tbsp cream cheese (for icing)
- 2 tbsp milk (for icing)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 12 cinnamon buns. Preparation time is approximately 1 hour (including rising time), and cooking time is about 25-30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cinnamon bun) contains approximately 300 calories, 10g of fat, 45g of carbohydrates, and 4g of protein. This is based on a standard-sized bun.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Add melted butter, eggs, and salt to the yeast mixture.
- Gradually incorporate flour until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread melted butter over the dough, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly, then mix icing ingredients and drizzle over buns.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Use almond milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free version. Additionally, consider using coconut sugar for a less refined sweetener.
Serving and Pairings
Cinnamon buns are delightful on their own but pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. Serve with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover cinnamon buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be refrigerated for up to a week. To reheat, place in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in the oven. Cinnamon buns can be frozen for up to 3 months; wrap individually for best results.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using cold ingredients can hinder dough rising.
- Not kneading the dough enough can result in dense buns.
- Overproofing the dough can lead to a flat texture.
- Underbaking will leave the buns doughy inside.
- Forgetting to cover the dough while rising can dry it out.
Helpful Tips
- Measure flour accurately by spooning and leveling.
- Use fresh yeast for best results.
- Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom.
- Let the icing cool slightly before drizzling for better control.
FAQs
Can I make cinnamon buns ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Bake them fresh in the morning for a delicious breakfast.
Why did my cinnamon buns come out dry?
Dry buns can result from overbaking or using too much flour. Ensure accurate measurements and check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time.
Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?
Absolutely! A bread machine can be used for mixing and kneading the dough. Follow your machine’s instructions for the best results.
What can I use instead of cream cheese in the icing?
You can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or omit it entirely for a simpler icing made with just powdered sugar and milk.
How should I serve cinnamon buns?
Cinnamon buns are delicious warm, drizzled with icing. They can be served plain or with added toppings like nuts or fruit.
Conclusion
Cinnamon buns are a delightful treat that bring warmth and comfort to any occasion. With their soft, gooey centers and sweet icing, these buns are not just a recipe, but a tradition worth sharing. Enjoy baking and savoring these delicious cinnamon buns with family and friends!
Cinnamon Buns
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 cup milk warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup powdered sugar for icing
- 2 tbsp cream cheese for icing
- 2 tbsp milk for icing
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Add melted butter, eggs, and salt to the yeast mixture.
- Gradually incorporate flour until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread melted butter over the dough, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly, then mix icing ingredients and drizzle over buns.
