Cinnamon rolls with icing

Cinnamon Rolls with Glaze: A Fluffy and Aromatic Delight

Today, I invite you to discover the magic of making cinnamon rolls, a dessert that will not only brighten your day but also transport you to a universe of enticing aromas. These rolls are perfect for any time of the day, whether you enjoy them at breakfast or serve them as dessert at a family meal. With a creamy glaze and a fluffy interior, these cinnamon rolls are truly irresistible!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12 rolls

Necessary ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 240 ml warm milk
- 90 g sugar
- 80 g melted butter
- 2 eggs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
- 1 teaspoon rum essence
- 550 g flour
- 1 packet (7 g) dry yeast

*For the filling:*
- 80 g soft butter
- 100 g brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon

*For the glaze:*
- 50 g soft butter
- 150 g cream cheese
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon

*Additionally, you will need:*
- 1 egg for brushing the rolls

Step by step in making cinnamon rolls:

1. Activating the yeast: Start by activating the dry yeast. In a small bowl, combine the yeast with 80 ml of warm milk, one tablespoon of sugar, and one tablespoon of flour. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is an essential step that will ensure good rising of the dough.

2. Preparing the dough: In the bowl of a food processor, add the remaining warm milk, beaten eggs, melted butter, sugar, salt, grated lemon and orange zest, as well as the rum essence. Mix the ingredients for a few seconds until combined. Then, gradually add the activated yeast mixture and the flour. Turn the processor on low speed and let it knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

3. Resting the dough: Stop the processor and let the dough rest for 10 minutes. This is an important moment as it allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out the dough later. After 10 minutes, knead the dough again for 10 minutes. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for one hour, or until it doubles in size.

4. Preparing the filling: In a bowl, mix the soft butter with the brown sugar and cinnamon until you get a smooth mixture. This filling will add a rich flavor to your rolls.

5. Shaping the rolls: Once the dough has risen, sprinkle flour on the work surface and turn the dough out. Roll it into a rectangular sheet about 1 cm thick. Spread the filling of butter and cinnamon evenly over the dough, leaving a small margin at the edges to seal the roll.

6. Rolling and cutting: Roll the dough lengthwise to form a tight cylinder. Use a sharp knife to cut the roll into pieces about 2 cm thick. Place the rolls face up in a rectangular baking dish lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between them to allow for rising.

7. Second rising: Cover the dish with a towel and let the rolls rise for 15-20 minutes. This step ensures a fluffy and airy texture.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Brush the rolls with the beaten egg for a nicely browned crust. Bake the rolls for 30 minutes or until they are golden and fluffy.

9. Preparing the glaze: Meanwhile, while the rolls are baking, you can prepare the glaze. Mix the cream cheese with the soft butter, gradually adding the powdered sugar until you achieve a smooth consistency. Finally, add the vanilla and cinnamon for extra flavor.

10. Finishing: Remove the dish from the oven and let the rolls cool for 10 minutes. Then, add the glaze on top of the rolls, allowing it to melt slightly in their warmth.

Serving and pairing suggestions:
These cinnamon rolls are delicious served warm, alongside a cup of fragrant tea or coffee. You can add a teaspoon of fruit jam or a caramel sauce for an extra touch of flavor. You can also experiment with various fillings, such as chopped nuts, raisins, or even chocolate, to give them a personal touch.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
Each roll contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on size and ingredients used. They provide carbohydrates from flour, proteins from eggs, and a dose of healthy fats from butter and cheese. However, like any dessert, it's important to consume them in moderation.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use fresh yeast. An equivalent amount is about 21 g of fresh yeast.

2. How can I make the rolls healthier?
You can replace part of the white flour with whole wheat flour and the sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

3. Can I freeze the rolls?
Yes, the rolls can be frozen. Make sure to let them cool completely, then wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in the freezer. You can bake them directly from the freezer, but you will need to let them rise a little longer.

Whether you choose to make these cinnamon rolls for a special occasion or simply to sweeten an ordinary day, I am sure you will fall in love with them. Their aromas will entice you every morning and make you feel at home, no matter where you are. So put on your apron and let’s get cooking!