Homemade Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls

Introduction:
There’s nothing like the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen! These soft, buttery rolls are filled with a delightful cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a luscious glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an indulgent treat, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to cinnamon roll perfection.

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (110°F/45°C)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the filling:

• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup (50g) chopped nuts (optional)

For the glaze:

• 1 1/2 cups (190g) powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dough:
   • In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, butter, eggs, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and mix.
   • Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the filling:
   • In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
   • Roll out the dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Add nuts if desired.
3. Shape the rolls:
   • Starting from one long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Slice into 12 equal pieces.
   • Arrange the rolls in a greased baking pan, leaving a little space between them. Cover and let rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
4. Bake:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Make the glaze:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust the consistency as needed.
6. Serve:
   • Drizzle the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls. Serve fresh and enjoy!

Let me know if you’d like adjustments or another variation of this recipe!