Quick Yeast Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Cinnamon rolls are a classic treat that brings warmth and comfort to any kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying them as a breakfast delight or an afternoon snack, the aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the air is simply irresistible. These quick yeast cinnamon rolls are designed to satisfy your cravings without the lengthy wait associated with traditional recipes. Follow along to create a delicious batch of fresh, homemade cinnamon rolls in a fraction of the time.

Ingredients

To begin your culinary journey, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon fine salt
• 1 cup warm almond milk (or whole milk)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup softened butter
• 1 large room temperature egg

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch (optional)
• 1/4 cup softened butter

For the Frosting:

• 1/4 cup cream cheese
• 1/4 cup softened butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

Creating these delightful cinnamon rolls is a straightforward process with the following steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 200°F (95°C). This will create a warm environment for the dough to rise.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the flour, instant dry yeast, and salt. Stir until well-mixed.
3. Prepare Wet Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix together the warm almond milk, sugar, and softened butter. Microwave the mixture for about 1 minute until it is warm (not hot).
4. Combine Ingredients: Pour the warm mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Add the egg and mix until you have a sticky dough. If necessary, gradually add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough is tacky but not sticky.
5. Rest Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rest for 10-20 minutes. This allows the yeast to begin its magic.
6. Make Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and cornstarch. Mix well.
7. Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 12×18 inch rectangle (approximately 1/2 cm thick).
8. Add Filling: Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges. Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
9. Roll and Cut Dough: Starting from the long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Using dental floss, cut the log into nine equal pieces and place them in a greased 8×8 inch pan.
10. Rise: Turn off the oven. Cover the rolls with foil and let them rise in the warmed oven for 30 minutes.
11. Bake: Once risen, remove the foil and bake the cinnamon rolls at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
12. Prepare Frosting: While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting by combining cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, salt, heavy cream, and powdered sugar in a bowl. Beat until smooth and creamy.
13. Frost Rolls: Once the rolls are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Spread the prepared frosting generously over the warm rolls.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s a brief overview of the nutritional content per cinnamon roll (assuming the recipe yields 9 rolls):

• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 280mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 60g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 30g
• Protein: 6g

How to Serve

Cinnamon rolls are best served warm, allowing the frosting to slightly melt, creating a gooey, sweet topping that perfectly complements the soft, fluffy texture of the roll. The delightful aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, combined with the melting frosting, creates an irresistible treat that enhances any occasion. Here are some detailed serving suggestions to elevate your cinnamon roll experience:

Breakfast

Start your day on a delicious note by serving warm cinnamon rolls at breakfast. The rich flavors and comforting texture of the rolls make them a satisfying choice. For an ideal pairing, consider offering a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee. The bitterness of the coffee beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of the roll, creating a balanced flavor profile that awakens the senses. Alternatively, for those who prefer a colder beverage, a tall glass of chilled milk enhances the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls and adds a creamy element that many enjoy. For a complete breakfast, consider serving the rolls with a side of scrambled eggs or crispy bacon, providing a savory balance to the sweet dish.

Brunch

Cinnamon rolls are a superb addition to any brunch spread, transforming an ordinary meal into a delightful feast. To create a well-rounded brunch table, serve your warm cinnamon rolls alongside an assortment of fresh fruits, such as sliced strawberries, blueberries, or citrus segments. The bright, refreshing flavors of the fruit will contrast beautifully with the richness of the rolls, adding a nutritious element to the meal. Additionally, consider including a bowl of creamy yogurt, perhaps flavored with vanilla or honey, which complements the cinnamon rolls while providing a tangy contrast. You can even create a mini parfait by layering yogurt, fruits, and small pieces of cinnamon roll for a visually appealing and delicious treat.

Dessert

When it comes to dessert, cinnamon rolls can be elevated to a whole new level of indulgence. Serving them warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream is a classic combination that never fails to impress. As the ice cream melts into the warm roll, it creates a luscious, creamy sauce that enhances the overall dessert experience. For an extra touch, consider drizzling warm caramel or chocolate sauce over the top, or adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts for crunch. If you want to impress your guests even further, try making a cinnamon roll bread pudding by cubing stale cinnamon rolls, soaking them in a custard mixture, and baking them until golden brown—this transforms the classic roll into a rich, custardy dessert perfect for sharing.

Additional Toppings and Variations

Don’t hesitate to get creative with your cinnamon roll toppings and presentations. Beyond the traditional cream cheese frosting, you can experiment with flavored glazes, such as maple or orange zest, which can brighten the flavor profile. For a gourmet twist, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt to the frosting to enhance the sweetness and add complexity. If you enjoy a bit of crunch, toasted coconut or crushed nuts can also be delightful toppings. For a unique flavor experience, try adding spices like nutmeg or cardamom to your cinnamon mixture before rolling it up, providing an unexpected depth of flavor.

By thoughtfully considering how you serve your cinnamon rolls, you can transform a simple baked good into a memorable culinary experience that suits any occasion—whether it’s a cozy breakfast, a festive brunch, or an indulgent dessert.

Additional Tips

To elevate your cinnamon roll-making experience and ensure that your treats are not only delicious but also visually appealing, consider the following comprehensive tips:

Room Temperature Ingredients

Why It Matters:
Using room temperature ingredients—specifically butter and eggs—can significantly enhance the texture and flavor of your cinnamon rolls. Cold ingredients can lead to a denser dough that doesn’t rise as well. Room temperature butter blends seamlessly into the dough, creating a richer flavor and a smoother texture. Similarly, room temperature eggs incorporate more easily, providing better emulsification and moisture.

How to Achieve This:
To bring your butter to room temperature quickly, cut it into smaller pieces and let it sit out for about 30 minutes before you start mixing. If you’re short on time, you can microwave it for about five seconds at a time until softened, but be careful not to melt it. For eggs, simply place them in a bowl of warm water for about five to ten minutes before use.

Dental Floss Cutting

Why It Matters:
When it comes to slicing your rolls, using dental floss is a game-changer. Traditional methods, such as using a knife, can compress the dough, resulting in uneven rolls that may not rise properly. Dental floss allows for a clean cut that preserves the integrity of the dough, ensuring that each roll maintains its fluffy structure.

How to Use Dental Floss:
To cut your cinnamon rolls with dental floss, take an 18-inch piece of unflavored dental floss and slide it under the log of dough where you want to cut. Cross the ends of the floss over each other and pull tightly. This will slice through the dough cleanly. You can also use unflavored fishing line as an alternative if you prefer.

Extra Rise

Why It Matters:
Allowing your cinnamon rolls to rise a second time before baking is crucial for achieving that desired light and airy texture. The second rise, often referred to as “proofing,” allows the yeast to continue fermenting, which increases the volume of the dough and enhances the flavor.

How to Achieve This:
After you’ve cut your rolls and placed them in the baking dish, cover them with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Find a warm, draft-free place for them to rise, such as an oven with just the light on or a warm countertop. Let them rise for about 30 to 45 minutes until they have doubled in size. This extra time will yield beautifully fluffy rolls.

Spice Variations

Why It Matters:
While classic cinnamon is the star of the show in traditional cinnamon rolls, experimenting with additional spices can elevate the flavor profile and introduce new dimensions to your baked goods. Nutmeg and cloves, for instance, bring warmth and complexity, making each bite even more delightful.

How to Incorporate Spices:
When preparing your filling, consider adding a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg or ground cloves to the cinnamon mixture. Start with a small amount—about 1/8 teaspoon of each—and adjust according to your taste preferences. You can also experiment with other spices, such as cardamom or ginger, for a unique twist that reflects your personal culinary style.

Additional Enhancements

• Add-ins: Consider incorporating raisins, chopped nuts, or even chocolate chips into your filling for added texture and flavor. Just be sure to chop them finely to ensure even distribution throughout the rolls.
• Frosting Options: While a classic cream cheese frosting is always a favorite, don’t hesitate to try other options like a maple glaze or a simple vanilla icing for a different flavor experience. To make a glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and your choice of flavoring until smooth.
• Storage Tips: If you want to prepare your rolls ahead of time, you can assemble them and refrigerate them overnight before the second rise. Just make sure to allow them to come to room temperature before baking the next day.

By implementing these tips into your cinnamon roll-making process, you’ll not only enhance the quality of your rolls but also enjoy a more rewarding baking experience. Happy baking!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can substitute almond milk with any milk of your choice, such as whole milk, soy milk, or even oat milk.

2. What if I don’t have instant dry yeast?

You can use active dry yeast instead. However, you will need to activate it in warm milk with a bit of sugar before adding it to the dry ingredients.

3. Can these rolls be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls up to the rising stage and refrigerate them overnight. The next day, allow the rolls to come to room temperature and rise before baking.

4. How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Warm them in the microwave before serving for the best texture.

5. Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?

Absolutely! Freeze the rolls after baking and cooling them completely. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature and warm in the oven.

Conclusion

These quick yeast cinnamon rolls are not only delicious but also convenient for busy schedules. With their rich, buttery dough, sweet cinnamon filling, and creamy frosting, they are sure to become a favorite treat for you and your loved ones. Follow this guide to enjoy homemade cinnamon rolls that rival those from any bakery. Happy baking!

Print