Every Saturday morning, my grandmother would wake up before sunrise. She would prepare her legendary glazed cinnamon rolls with raisins. The kitchen would fill with an irresistible aroma that would draw our entire family to the table.
My love for homemade cinnamon rolls began in her kitchen. Watching her knead the dough and sprinkle cinnamon and raisins was magical. These homemade cinnamon rolls were more than just a breakfast treat. They were a cherished family tradition that connected generations through the simple joy of baking.
Today, I’m excited to share this treasured glazed cinnamon roll with raisins recipe. It has been perfected over decades. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe will guide you to creating the most delectable, soft, and flavorful rolls right in your own kitchen.
Key Takeaways
- Learn to make authentic homemade cinnamon rolls from scratch
- Discover the perfect balance of cinnamon and raisins
- Master the art of creating soft, fluffy dough
- Create a delicious cream cheese glaze
- Enjoy a breakfast treat that brings family together
Introduction to Glazed Cinnamon Rolls
Cinnamon rolls have a long history, loved by bakers and food fans for over a century. As a home baker, I love making sweet bread recipe that fills my kitchen with a wonderful smell.
Why I Love Making Cinnamon Rolls
Making cinnamon roll dough is more than cooking. It’s a journey through generations. These rolls are not just treats; they’re memories that warm our hearts in the morning.
- Originated in Northern Europe
- Introduced to America in the 1920s
- Celebrated on National Cinnamon Bun Day (October 4th)
The Comfort of Homemade Baking
Baking cinnamon rolls is a labor of love. Each roll tells a story of patience, skill, and tradition. The kneading, rising, and baking create more than a pastry; they create a special experience that connects us to our culinary roots.
| Region | Unique Cinnamon Roll Characteristic |
|---|---|
| Midwest, USA | Often served with chili |
| Sweden | Includes cardamom, known as kanelbolle |
| Finland | Baked as Bostonkakku in a round cake pan |
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, making cinnamon rolls is a journey of tasty discovery. It promises to warm both your heart and home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making tasty homemade cinnamon rolls begins with picking the right ingredients. I’ll show you the key parts that make your baking a fun journey.
Essential Dough Ingredients
Great cinnamon rolls start with quality ingredients. For the dough, you’ll need:
- 3½ cups unbleached all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1¼ teaspoons salt
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons butter
Flavorful Raisin Filling and Spices
For an amazing raisin filling, gather these important ingredients:
- ¾ cup light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¾ cup golden raisins
- ½ cup chopped toasted walnuts
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
For the best cinnamon roll, mix flavors well. Pick plump, golden raisins for natural sweetness in your homemade pastry.
| Ingredient Category | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Flour | 3½ cups | Dough structure |
| Raisins | ¾ cup | Sweetness and texture |
| Cinnamon | 1 tablespoon | Flavor enhancement |
Pro tip: Always use fresh spices and plump raisins to elevate your cinnamon sugar swirl to the next level!
Step-by-Step Dough Preparation
Making the perfect cinnamon roll dough is an art that needs patience and precision. My sweet bread recipe has been perfected over years of baking. It ensures a soft and delightful texture that will make your kitchen smell amazing.
Several key steps are important for success when preparing cinnamon roll dough. Let me guide you through my favorite techniques for creating a stellar base for your rolls.
Mixing the Essential Ingredients
Begin by gathering your ingredients carefully. For the ideal cinnamon roll dough, you’ll need:
- 16 oz all-purpose flour
- 10 oz warm milk
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
Kneading Techniques for Perfect Texture
Kneading is key for developing gluten in your sweet bread recipe. I suggest kneading the dough for about 10 minutes by hand or 5-7 minutes with a stand mixer. The goal is to get a smooth, elastic dough that springs back when gently pressed.
Pro tip: Your cinnamon roll dough should feel soft but not sticky. If it’s too wet, add a sprinkle of flour. If it’s too dry, add a little more warm milk.
The secret to great cinnamon rolls is taking your time during the dough preparation process.
After mixing and kneading, let the dough rest and rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour. This lets the yeast work its magic, creating a light and fluffy texture. This makes homemade cinnamon rolls truly special.
Letting the Dough Rise
Creating the perfect homemade cinnamon rolls starts with understanding the magical process of dough rising. The proofing stage is key for developing rich flavors and achieving that light, fluffy texture every baker dreams about in a sweet bread recipe.
Yeast is the secret ingredient that transforms simple ingredients into delectable homemade cinnamon rolls. When activated correctly, it creates tiny air bubbles that make your rolls soft and delightful. I’ll share my tried-and-true techniques for creating the ideal rising environment.
The Science of Proofing
Proofing isn’t just waiting—it’s a critical process where yeast works its magic. Here are key factors for successful dough rising:
- Temperature matters: Keep your dough between 75-80°F
- Humidity helps activate yeast effectively
- Use a draft-free space like a warm kitchen corner
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth to prevent drying
Creating the Perfect Rising Environment
I recommend using your oven’s proof setting or creating a warm spot near (not on) a heating source. A perfectly proofed dough will typically double in size within 1-2 hours.
“Patience is the secret ingredient in bread making”
For my sweet bread recipe, I’ve found that maintaining consistent warmth helps the yeast develop maximum flavor. Aim for a steady environment around 80°F, which encourages optimal yeast activity without risking overproofing.
Making the Cinnamon Filling
Making the perfect cinnamon sugar swirl is an art. It turns simple dough into a special treat. The secret to a great cinnamon roll is its sweet and aromatic filling.
- High-quality ground cinnamon
- Granulated or brown sugar
- Softened butter
Choosing the Right Cinnamon
Not all cinnamon is the same. I suggest using Ceylon cinnamon for its sweet flavor. Vietnamese or Saigon cinnamon adds a spicy kick to your swirl.
Sweeteners and Their Flavor Impact
The sweetener you choose changes the filling’s taste. Brown sugar adds a rich, molasses flavor. Granulated sugar gives a cleaner taste. I mix 1/2 cup sugar with 2 teaspoons of cinnamon.
For extra flavor, try these mix-ins:
- Chopped nuts for texture
- Plump raisins for sweetness
- A pinch of sea salt to balance flavors
By picking and mixing these ingredients, you’ll make a cinnamon sugar swirl. It will turn your homemade rolls into a treat from the bakery.
Preparing the Glaze
Creating the perfect glaze is the final touch that makes my glazed cinnamon roll with raisins recipe irresistible. A cream cheese frosting adds a luxurious creamy element. It complements the warm spices in the rolls.
The secret to an outstanding glaze lies in its ingredients and consistency. I’ll share my favorite cream cheese frosting technique. It brings these rolls to life.
Simple Ingredients for a Delicious Glaze
For the most delectable cream cheese frosting, you’ll need:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Tips for the Perfect Glaze Consistency
Achieving the right glaze texture is key. Start by beating the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until silky and spreadable. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
Pro tip: Let your cinnamon rolls cool for about 10 minutes before glazing. This prevents the frosting from melting. It allows it to set beautifully on top of the warm rolls.
The magic is in the details – a perfectly smooth, creamy glaze can elevate your homemade cinnamon rolls from good to extraordinary!
Rolling and Shaping the Cinnamon Rolls
Making homemade cinnamon rolls is an art that needs precision and care. The way you roll and shape them can make or break your treat. I’ll share my best tips for getting those beautiful spiral patterns that make classic cinnamon rolls so tempting.
Mastering the Rolling Technique
When making your cinnamon rolls, the rolling technique is key. Roll out your dough into a 18×12 inch rectangle. The secret to a perfect cinnamon sugar swirl is to keep the dough even.
- Use a long rolling pin for consistent pressure
- Work on a lightly floured surface
- Roll from the center outward to ensure evenness
- Aim for a uniform 1/4-inch thickness
Cutting Rolls with Precision
Uniform rolls are what make homemade cinnamon rolls look professional. Use dental floss or a sharp knife for clean cuts. A pro tip is to mark your dough into 12 sections before cutting for evenness.
| Cutting Method | Pros | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|
| Dental Floss | Clean cuts, no squishing | Delicate dough |
| Sharp Knife | Quick and precise | Firmer dough |
| Bench Scraper | Straight edges | Professional baking |
When cutting your rolls, gentle pressure is key. You want to make 12 even slices without squishing the dough. Each roll should be about 1.5 inches wide for even baking and a perfect look.
Final Rise Before Baking
Making perfect homemade cinnamon rolls needs patience and care, mainly during the final rise. This step turns your dough into soft, fluffy pastries that taste amazing.
The final rise is a special moment in baking. Your homemade cinnamon rolls get their soft texture here. Yeast works its magic, making the rolls expand and become very soft.
Understanding the Rise Time
The final rise usually takes 25 to 30 minutes. Here’s how to know if your rolls are ready:
- Rolls have visibly doubled in size
- Dough feels light and puffy when gently touched
- Rolls are touching each other in the baking pan
Creating the Perfect Rising Environment
To help rolls rise well, keep the area warm and draft-free. A warm oven (turned off) or a sunny spot in your kitchen is ideal.
| Rising Condition | Ideal Temperature | Expected Time |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 70-75°F | 25-30 minutes |
| Warm Proofing Area | 80-85°F | 20-25 minutes |
Pro tip: Don’t rush the rising. A good rise makes your cinnamon rolls light, airy, and super tasty!
Baking the Cinnamon Rolls
The moment of truth has arrived for your homemade cinnamon rolls! Baking these delightful treats requires precision and care to achieve that perfect golden-brown finish.
When preparing your glazed cinnamon roll with raisins recipe, oven temperature is critical. I recommend setting your oven to 375°F, which provides the ideal environment for baking homemade cinnamon rolls.
Oven Temperature Tips
- Preheat the oven for at least 15 minutes before baking
- Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature
- Place rolls in the center rack for even heating
Achieving the Perfect Golden Brown Finish
The key to a beautiful golden-brown exterior lies in watching your rolls carefully during the final baking stage. Your homemade cinnamon rolls typically need 18-22 minutes to reach that beautiful color.
| Baking Stage | Temperature | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat | 375°F | 15 minutes |
| Baking Rolls | 375°F | 18-22 minutes |
Pro tip: Check your rolls around the 15-minute mark. If they’re browning too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while ensuring they cook through completely.
The internal temperature of your cinnamon rolls should reach 190°F when fully baked. This ensures a perfectly cooked, soft, and delicious result every time!
Enjoying Your Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
Your freshly baked breakfast pastry is now ready to delight! Serve these sticky buns warm, straight from the oven, for the best flavor and texture. Place the rolls on a beautiful ceramic platter with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a special touch.
Homemade cinnamon rolls can be kept fresh for several days. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. Or refrigerate them for up to 4 days. For longer preservation, freeze them for 3-4 months.
Reheating is simple and ensures your rolls taste just as delicious as when first baked. Warm them in the oven at 320 degrees Fahrenheit for 5-10 minutes. This helps restore their soft, gooey texture. A quick microwave warm-up works in a pinch, but the oven method maintains the rolls’ original soft, tender quality.
Pairing suggestions can elevate your cinnamon roll experience. I love serving them with a hot cup of coffee or fresh orange juice. For a decadent breakfast, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a light fruit salad. Your homemade creation is sure to impress family and friends with its irresistible aroma and taste!