Cinnamon Rolls Recipe (Only 1 Rise)

Warm milk: Provides the necessary liquid to activate the yeast and create a soft dough.

Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise and become fluffy.

Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough.

Butter: Adds richness and flavor to both the dough and the filling.

Egg: Adds structure and richness to the dough.

All-purpose flour: The main structure of the dough.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the dough.

Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a caramel-like flavor to the filling.

Ground cinnamon: Provides the classic cinnamon roll flavor.

When rolling out the dough, ensure it is evenly spread to maintain a consistent thickness. This helps the cinnamon rolls bake uniformly. Additionally, when spreading the softened butter over the dough, use an offset spatula for an even layer, which will help the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture adhere better.

• warm milk - Substitute with warm almond milk: Almond milk provides a similar texture and moisture content, making it a good dairy-free alternative.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used in the same quantity and does not require proofing, speeding up the process.

• granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and moisture, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

• melted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and can add a subtle coconut flavor.

• large egg - Substitute with flax egg: A flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoon water) is a good vegan alternative that helps bind the dough.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the rolls denser.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral content.

• softened butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a dairy-free alternative with a similar texture and spreadability.

• brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and provides a caramel-like flavor.

• ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice includes cinnamon along with other spices like nutmeg and cloves, adding a more complex flavor.

• Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• For short-term storage, place the cinnamon rolls in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to two days.
• To keep them fresh for a longer period, store the cinnamon rolls in the refrigerator. Use an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They will stay fresh for up to a week.
• If you want to freeze the cinnamon rolls, first wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap. This helps to prevent freezer burn and keeps them from sticking together.
• Place the individually wrapped cinnamon rolls in a large freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• Frozen cinnamon rolls can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the thawed cinnamon rolls on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil. Warm them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• For a quicker option, you can microwave the cinnamon rolls. Place a roll on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds, or until warm.
• If you prefer a freshly baked taste, you can freeze the cinnamon rolls before baking. Follow the recipe up to the point of the second rise. Instead of letting them rise, place the rolls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the unbaked cinnamon rolls to a freezer bag or airtight container. When ready to bake, place the frozen rolls in a greased baking dish and let them thaw and rise in a warm place for about 2-3 hours before baking as directed.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover cinnamon rolls in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the rolls from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the rolls are warmed through.
  5. For an extra touch, you can brush the tops with a bit of melted butter before reheating.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a cinnamon roll on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover the roll with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
  4. Check if the roll is heated through; if not, continue in 10-second intervals.
  5. Optionally, drizzle with a bit of cream cheese frosting or glaze after reheating.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat.
  2. Place the cinnamon rolls in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  3. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even warming.
  4. If desired, add a small amount of butter to the skillet for extra flavor.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
  2. Place the cinnamon rolls in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching.
  3. Heat for 3-5 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
  4. Enjoy the rolls with a bit of cream cheese frosting or glaze if desired.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the cinnamon rolls on a baking sheet.
  3. Cover with aluminum foil to keep them from drying out.
  4. Heat for 8-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
  5. Optionally, brush with a bit of melted butter before reheating for added moisture.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the milk and yeast, as well as to mix the dough ingredients together.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the milk, sugar, flour, and other ingredients accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the yeast, salt, and cinnamon precisely.

• Whisk: Useful for mixing the milk and yeast together and for combining the wet ingredients.

• Stand mixer: Optional but helpful for kneading the dough; otherwise, you can knead by hand.

• Rolling pin: Used to roll out the dough into a rectangle.

• Pastry brush: Useful for spreading the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough.

• Knife: Used to cut the rolled dough into 12 individual rolls.

• Baking dish: A greased dish where the rolls will be placed to rise and then baked.

• Plastic wrap: Used to cover the rolls while they rise.

• Oven: Preheated to 350°F (175°C) for baking the cinnamon rolls.

• Cooling rack: Used to cool the cinnamon rolls after they are baked.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This reduces prep time and ensures a smoother process.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can knead the dough more efficiently, saving you time and effort.

Quick rise method: Place the dough in a warm oven (around 100°F) to speed up the rising process.

Preheat while rising: Preheat your oven during the last 10 minutes of the rise to save time.

Slice with floss: Use unflavored dental floss to slice the rolls cleanly and quickly.