Cinnamon Buns

Freshly baked cinnamon buns with gooey frosting on top.

Table of Contents

Cinnamon buns are the ultimate treat for those cozy mornings or perfect for dessert any time of day. Their warm, gooey center infused with cinnamon and sugar, paired with a sweet glaze, makes them irresistible to everyone. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee or serving them at a gathering, these delightful rolls will surely bring smiles and satisfaction.

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
  • Servings: 12 servings
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

  • Calories per serving: 220
  • Protein: 4g per serving
  • Carbohydrates: 34g per serving
  • Fat: 8g per serving
  • Fiber: 1g per serving
  • Sugar: 10g per serving
  • Sodium: 180mg per serving

Why Make This Cinnamon Buns

These cinnamon buns are not just easy to make; they reward you with heavenly aromas and a taste that lingers. The combination of soft, fluffy dough intertwined with a sweet, spiced filling creates a perfect balance for your palate. It’s a classic recipe that brings people together, whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging on a rainy day. Plus, they offer a sense of accomplishment when you pull the aromatic buns from the oven, warm and golden brown.

How to Make Cinnamon Buns

Making cinnamon buns is a straightforward process that even beginner bakers can master. With just a few key steps, you’ll be on your way to creating a batch of soft, sweet rolls that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
  • 1/2 cup icing sugar (for glaze)
  • 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)

Directions:

  • Step 1: Preparation

    In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.

  • Step 2: Mixing

    Heat the milk and butter in a saucepan until warm (not hot), then pour this mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Add the eggs and stir until a dough forms.

  • Step 3: Kneading

    Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step develops the gluten, ensuring your buns are fluffy.

  • Step 4: Rising

    Let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 hour. Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap to keep it warm.

  • Step 5: Rolling Out

    Roll the dough out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Aim for about ¼ inch thick.

  • Step 6: Spreading the Filling

    Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly on top. Optionally add raisins for extra sweetness and texture.

  • Step 7: Shaping the Rolls

    Roll the dough tightly into a log from the long side, then slice it into even pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick.

  • Step 8: Second Rising

    Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and let them rise again for 30 minutes. This second rise is crucial for fluffiness.

  • Step 9: Baking

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon buns for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown. The smell will be divine!

  • Step 10: Glazing

    For the glaze, mix the icing sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk until smooth, then drizzle it over the warm buns right after they come out of the oven.

How to Serve Cinnamon Buns

Serve these cinnamon buns warm, preferably fresh out of the oven. They are delightful on their own but also pair perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. For a delightful brunch, consider serving with fresh fruit or even adding a scoop of ice cream for a sweet twist!

How to Store Cinnamon Buns

To store leftover cinnamon buns, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Simply thaw before warming them up in the oven or microwave.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Buns

  1. Use fresh yeast: Always check the expiration date of your yeast for the best rise.
  2. Temperature matters: Ensure your milk is warm, not hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast.
  3. Don’t rush the rising time: Allowing enough time for the dough to rise is key to getting fluffy buns.
  4. Experiment with flavors: Try adding vanilla extract to your glaze or mix in nuts or chocolate chips for added variety.

Delicious Variations

  • Pecan Cinnamon Buns: Add chopped pecans to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a nutty crunch.
  • Maple Glaze: Substitute the icing sugar for maple syrup in the glaze for a rich maple flavor.
  • Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls: Add cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolate twist and use chocolate chips in the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I make the dough ahead of time?
    Yes! You can prepare the dough the night before. Let it rise in the fridge overnight and then shape and bake in the morning.

  • What can I use instead of raisins?
    If you’re not a fan of raisins, try dried cranberries, chopped nuts, or even apple chunks for a fruity twist.

  • Can I make these gluten-free?
    Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for elasticity.

  • How do I know when the buns are done?
    They should be golden brown, and if you tap on the bottom, they should sound hollow when fully baked.

  • What other spices can I use?
    Experiment with cardamom, nutmeg, or even vanilla extract for different flavor profiles in your cinnamon buns.

Conclusion

These cinnamon buns are a joy to make and an even greater delight to eat. With their fluffy texture and comforting taste, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them warm out of the oven or saved for later, this recipe will surely become a staple in your baking repertoire. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to fill your home with the irresistible scent of baking cinnamon buns! Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

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Cinnamon Buns


  • Author: lydia
  • Total Time: 115 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Delightful cinnamon buns with a warm, gooey center, perfect for cozy mornings or dessert any time of day.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
  • 1/2 cup icing sugar (for glaze)
  • 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
  2. Heat the milk and butter in a saucepan until warm (not hot), then pour this mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Add the eggs and stir until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  4. Let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.
  5. Roll the dough out into a rectangle on a floured surface, aiming for about ¼ inch thick.
  6. Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly on top. Optionally add raisins.
  7. Roll the dough tightly into a log from the long side, then slice it into even pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick.
  8. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and let them rise again for 30 minutes.
  9. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon buns for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown.
  10. For the glaze, mix the icing sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk until smooth, then drizzle it over the warm buns.

Notes

Serve warm with coffee or tea; store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 90 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

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Pro Chef & Blogger

Hi, I’m Lydia, the passionate culinary creator behind Ninja Machine Recipes! I firmly believe that amazing food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Here at Ninja Machine Recipes, I share my favorite recipes that bring loved ones together around the dinner table – from quick weeknight solutions to special celebration treats.

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