Cinnamon buns are a beloved treat that combines fluffy dough with a sweet, spiced filling, topped off with creamy icing. These buns are perfect for breakfast or as a delightful snack with coffee. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or as leftovers, their irresistible aroma and flavor will captivate everyone. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion!
Ingredients
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
– 2 tbsp cream or milk (for icing)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 12 cinnamon buns. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a rising time of about 1 hour, and cooking time is around 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cinnamon bun) contains approximately 320 calories, 12g fat, 45g carbohydrates, and 5g protein. Note that these values may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a bowl, mix warm milk and yeast; let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs to the dry ingredients.
4. Mix until a dough forms; knead for about 5-10 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl; cover and let rise for 1 hour.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle.
7. Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon over the dough evenly.
8. Roll the dough tightly into a log; cut into 12 pieces.
9. Place the pieces in a greased baking dish; let rise for an additional 30 minutes.
10. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, coconut sugar can replace brown sugar for a more natural sweetness. Dairy-free milk and butter can also be used for a vegan version.
Serving and Pairings
Cinnamon buns are delightful on their own but can be served with a side of cream cheese frosting, fresh fruit, or a warm cup of coffee or tea. They also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover cinnamon buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. They can be reheated in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. Cinnamon buns can be frozen before baking for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using cold ingredients can hinder dough rising.
- Over-kneading can lead to tough buns.
- Not allowing enough time for dough to rise affects fluffiness.
- Skipping the cinnamon filling will result in bland buns.
- Not preheating the oven can cause uneven baking.
Helpful Tips
- Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area.
- For extra flavor, add nutmeg to the filling.
- Brush melted butter on top before baking for a golden finish.
FAQs
Can I make cinnamon buns ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before baking.
What can I use instead of yeast?
You can use baking powder, but the texture will differ; the buns will be denser.
How do I know when my cinnamon buns are done?
They should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Can I add nuts to my cinnamon buns?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts can enhance the texture and flavor.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
Add a little more flour gradually until the dough is manageable but still soft.
Conclusion
Cinnamon buns are a timeless favorite, perfect for any occasion. With this easy recipe, you’ll create soft, sweet, and aromatic buns that bring warmth to your table. Enjoy them fresh, share with loved ones, and savor each delightful bite!
Cinnamon Buns
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast 2 1/4 tsp
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup powdered sugar for icing
- 2 tbsp cream or milk for icing
Instructions
- Mix warm milk and yeast in a bowl; let sit for 5 minutes.
- Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
- Add yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs; mix until dough forms.
- Knead dough for 5-10 minutes, then place in a greased bowl.
- Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
- Roll out dough into a rectangle and sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll tightly into a log and cut into 12 pieces.
- Place in a greased baking dish and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Let cool and drizzle with icing made from powdered sugar and cream.
Nutrition
