Perfectly Soft and Lovely Cinnamon Buns Recipe
There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked cinnamon buns filling the kitchen. With their soft, fluffy dough and rich cinnamon-sugar filling, these cinnamon buns are the ultimate treat for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Topped with a sweet vanilla icing, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this step-by-step recipe will help you create perfectly soft cinnamon buns from scratch.
Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and bring the comforting aroma of cinnamon buns into your home!
How to Make Soft and Lovely Cinnamon Buns
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tablespoons yeast (yes, tablespoons)
Cinnamon-Sugar Filling
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup softened butter
Vanilla Icing
- 1 cup icing sugar
- 1 – 1 1/2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions for Making Lovely Cinnamon Buns
Step 1: Warm the Milk Mixture
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk, granulated sugar, salt, and 1/4 cup of butter. Stir until the butter is melted and the sugar dissolves.
- Cool the Mixture: Remove the milk mixture from heat and let it cool until it reaches 100-110°F. This is important for activating the yeast.
Step 2: Add the Yeast
- Bloom the Yeast: Once the milk mixture has cooled to the proper temperature, add the yeast and stir gently. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast dissolves and becomes frothy.
Step 3: Mix in the Egg and Flour
- Add the Egg: Stir in the beaten egg until well combined.
- Start Adding Flour: In a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment (or by hand in a large mixing bowl), add about 1 1/2 cups of flour to the milk mixture.
- Form a Soft Dough: Gradually add the remaining flour, a little at a time, until a soft and non-sticky dough forms. Knead on a medium-low speed (3 or 4 on a KitchenAid mixer) for about 5 minutes, or knead by hand for about 10 minutes, until a soft dough ball is formed.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
- First Rise: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, turning it to coat. Cover with a damp towel and place in a cold oven or other warm, draft-free place to rise for 1 hour, or until the dough doubles in size.
Step 5: Prepare the Filling
- Mix Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.
- Soften the Butter: Make sure your butter for the filling is softened and easy to spread.
Step 6: Roll Out the Dough
- Shape the Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface to a 9×12-inch rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick.
Step 7: Add the Cinnamon-Sugar Filling
- Spread the Butter: Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough.
- Add the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture: Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough, pressing it down gently to help it adhere.
Step 8: Roll and Slice the Dough
- Roll Up the Dough: Starting with the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Cut into Rolls: Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal slices. Place each roll into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 9: Second Rise
- Cover and Let Rise: Cover the rolls with a dry towel and let them rise in a warm place for another 30 minutes, or until they have puffed up and nearly doubled in size.
Step 10: Bake the Cinnamon Buns
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Bake: Once the rolls have risen, bake them for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 11: Prepare the Icing
- Mix the Icing Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the icing sugar, 1-1 1/2 tablespoons of water, and the vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the water amount for your desired icing thickness.
Step 12: Ice the Cinnamon Buns
- Spread the Icing: After the buns are out of the oven and slightly cooled but still warm, spread the icing over the top. Serve and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Buns
Use Fresh Yeast
For the best rise, use fresh yeast. If your yeast doesn’t bubble or froth during the blooming step, it may be old, and you’ll want to start over with fresh yeast.
Ensure Proper Dough Consistency
The dough should be soft but not sticky. Gradually add flour until it reaches this consistency, as too much flour will make the buns dense, while too little can make them fall apart.
Don’t Skip the Second Rise
Allowing the buns to rise a second time after slicing is crucial for achieving a soft, fluffy texture.
Roll Tightly
When rolling up the dough, keep it tight to prevent the rolls from unraveling as they bake. Use dental floss to slice the rolls cleanly without squishing them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Prepare Cinnamon Buns in Advance?
Yes! After assembling and placing them in the baking dish, cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. The next morning, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
Can I Freeze Cinnamon Buns?
Yes, these cinnamon buns can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before baking, place them in a freezer-safe container after the second rise. When ready to bake, let them thaw and rise again for about 1 hour, then bake as usual. For baked buns, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and warm them in the oven before serving.
Can I Substitute the Sugar?
For a healthier option, you can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute, though the flavor may vary slightly. Brown sugar is key to the filling’s rich flavor, so it’s best not to replace it.
Why Are My Cinnamon Buns Dry?
Dry buns usually result from overbaking or adding too much flour. Make sure to bake only until golden brown, and check dough consistency before the first rise.
How Long Can I Store Baked Cinnamon Buns?
Cinnamon buns stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven to refresh their softness.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Cinnamon Buns?
To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual buns for 20-30 seconds until warm.
This recipe for lovely cinnamon buns is guaranteed to impress with its tender dough, rich filling, and luscious icing. Perfect for any occasion, these cinnamon buns are sure to be a new favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the process of making them and savor each delicious bite!