Introduction:
Imagine a Christmas morning where the world is blanketed under a shimmering layer of snow, and the air is filled with the sweet aroma of cinnamon wafting through the house. These homemade cinnamon rolls are not just a dessert; they’re a warm embrace on a chilly morning, a testament to holiday traditions and family gatherings. With each spiral layered with cinnamon goodness and drizzled with a luscious glaze, these rolls beckon joy, love, and festive celebrations.
These cinnamon rolls are a Christmas symphony in the making. Soft, fluffy dough envelops a heart of cinnamon, brown sugar, and a hint of nutmeg, evoking the magic of yuletide carols. Drizzled with a vanilla glaze, every bite is a mix of warmth and sweetness, reminiscent of heartwarming holiday tales by the fireplace. Perfect for sharing, these rolls are a testament to the spirit of Christmas – loving, giving, and endlessly delightful.
Servings: 12
Prep Time: 2 hours (includes dough rising)
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (more if needed)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
For the Filling:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Directions:
In the cozy embrace of a Christmas kitchen, dissolve sugar in warm milk, sprinkling the yeast on top. Let the magic unfold as the yeast awakens, foaming and bubbling.
Whisk in melted butter, egg, and salt, crafting a potion of festive delight. Gradually add flour, blending to form a soft dough. On a floured surface, knead this yuletide creation until it’s smooth and elastic.
Let the dough rest, covering it with a warm cloth, allowing it to rise and capture the essence of the season.
Roll out this festive canvas, and spread the softened butter, showering it with a mix of brown sugar, cinnamon, and whispers of nutmeg.
Roll this sheet into a log, sealing in tales of Christmases past. Slice into rolls, placing them in a baking dish, letting them rest for another brief spell.
Bake until they’re golden, echoing the hues of a Christmas morning sunrise.
Whisk together the glaze ingredients, drizzling it over the warm rolls, adding a touch of holiday magic.
Tips or Notes:
- For an added festive touch, sprinkle crushed pecans or walnuts over the glaze.
- Serve these rolls with a steaming cup of cocoa or coffee for the perfect Christmas breakfast.
- The dough can be prepared the night before, allowing for quicker baking on Christmas morning.
- Enjoy these rolls in the company of loved ones, for they’re best when shared with warm smiles and joyous laughter.