One-Hour Cinnamon Rolls: A Quick and Delicious Treat
Introduction
Cinnamon rolls are a timeless favorite, known for their soft, fluffy texture, swirls of cinnamon-sugar goodness, and a rich glaze that makes them irresistible. Traditional cinnamon rolls require hours of proofing, but with this one-hour cinnamon rolls recipe, you can enjoy fresh, homemade rolls in a fraction of the time. These rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat at any time of the day.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Cinnamon rolls, or kanelbullar, originated in Sweden and became a staple in Scandinavian bakeries before gaining worldwide popularity. They are a beloved treat in the United States, often served in bakeries, coffee shops, and homes. Quick-rise cinnamon rolls cater to modern lifestyles by reducing preparation time while maintaining the classic flavors of this cherished pastry.
Ingredients Quantity
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2 ½ teaspoons instant yeast (or one packet)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
For the Filling:
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons butter, softened
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Additions
- Chopped nuts: Add ½ cup of pecans or walnuts to the filling for extra crunch.
- Raisins or dried fruit: Sprinkle ½ cup of raisins for a classic touch.
- Cream cheese frosting: Replace the glaze with a cream cheese frosting for extra richness.
Tips for Success
- Use warm milk: The milk should be around 110°F to activate the yeast properly.
- Knead the dough well: Even though the dough rises quickly, kneading for a few minutes ensures a soft texture.
- Use a warm place for proofing: Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area to speed up the process.
- Roll tightly: When rolling the dough into a log, keep it snug to create defined swirls.
- Don’t overbake: Bake until golden brown—about 20 minutes—to keep them soft.
- Glaze while warm: Drizzle the glaze over warm rolls for a deliciously gooey texture.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add salt, melted butter, and egg, mixing until combined.
- Gradually add flour, kneading until a soft dough forms (about 3–5 minutes).
- Cover and let rest for 10 minutes to slightly rise.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon.
Step 3: Shape the Rolls
- Roll out the dough into a 14×9-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread softened butter over the dough and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly.
- Roll the dough tightly from the longer side into a log.
- Cut into 12 even slices and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 4: Final Rise and Bake
- Cover and let the rolls rise for 15 minutes while preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden brown.
Step 5: Make the Glaze and Serve
- Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle over warm cinnamon rolls. Serve immediately!
Description
These one-hour cinnamon rolls are the perfect balance of soft, fluffy dough and sweet, gooey cinnamon filling. The quick-rise method ensures a homemade treat without the long wait, making them ideal for busy mornings or sudden sweet cravings. Topped with a silky glaze, these rolls melt in your mouth, delivering classic cinnamon roll flavors in just an hour.
Nutritional Information (Per Roll)
- Calories: ~250
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
Conclusion
With this one-hour cinnamon roll recipe, you can enjoy the delightful taste of freshly baked cinnamon rolls in a fraction of the time. Whether for a special breakfast or a cozy treat, these rolls are guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Recommendation
Serve these rolls warm with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa. They also make a great addition to a holiday brunch or a weekend family breakfast. If you prefer a richer topping, try swapping the glaze for a cream cheese frosting for an extra indulgent experience.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While these cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat, you can make them slightly healthier by:
- Using whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Reducing sugar in the filling and glaze.
- Swapping butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Adding nuts or fruit for more nutrients.