# Recipe for Cinnamon Rolls
Cinnamon rolls are a cherished delicacy, particularly during the holiday season. The delightful, welcoming scent of warm cinnamon rolls can turn any chilly winter morning into a snug occasion. This recipe, inspired by the Pioneer Woman’s food blog, is straightforward, egg-free, and requires just one rise, making it ideal for festive baking.
## Ingredients
### For the Dough:
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup water
### For the Filling:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar (or granulated sugar for a milder option)
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
### For the Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
## Instructions
### Step 1: Prepare the Dough
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. In a saucepan, heat the milk, butter, and water until warm (not boiling).
3. Pour the warm mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and allow it to rise in a warm area for around 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
### Step 2: Make the Filling
1. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, sugar, and cinnamon until well blended.
### Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
1. Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 16×12 inches).
2. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
3. Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log.
4. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces using a string or dental floss for clean slices.
### Step 4: Second Rise and Bake
1. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and allow them to rise for another 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
### Step 5: Prepare the Glaze
1. In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls.
## Tips
– For a sweeter filling, increase the sugar to 1 cup.
– You can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise for easier baking the following morning.
– Try using brown sugar in the filling for a richer flavor, and think about adding coffee to the glaze for a distinctive twist.
Savor these warm, fluffy, and gooey cinnamon rolls as a part of your holiday breakfast or any special event. They are sure to please family and friends alike!
