Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipes with All-Purpose Flour and Freshly Milled Flour

Nothing evokes the essence of "home sweet home" quite like the warm, inviting aroma of cinnamon rolls baking in the oven. Whether you are a seasoned baker or just starting out, these recipes are designed to fill your kitchen with comfort and delight. Today, I’m thrilled to share two fantastic cinnamon roll recipes: one made with all-purpose flour and the other featuring freshly milled flour. Let’s get those aprons on and get started!

The All-Purpose Flour Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients

• For the Dough:

- 4 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast

- ½ cup granulated sugar

- 1 tsp salt

- 1 cup warm milk

- ⅓ cup melted butter

- 2 large eggs

• For the Filling:

- ½ cup packed brown sugar

- 2 tsp ground cinnamon

- ⅓ cup softened butter

• For the Icing:

- 1 cup powdered sugar

- 2 tbsp milk

- ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, mix the warm milk and sugar. Stir in the instant yeast and allow it to sit until bubbly, about 5 minutes.

   
   

2. Mix the Dough: Add melted butter and eggs into the yeast mixture. Gradually incorporate the flour and salt until a soft dough forms.

   
   

3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

   
   

4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm environment for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

   
   

5. Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle. Spread the softened butter over it and sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly on top.

   
   

6. Roll and Cut: Carefully roll the dough from the long side, forming a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and arrange them in a greased baking dish.

   
   

7. Second Rise: Cover the dish and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes.

   
   

8. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

   
   

9. Make the Icing: While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.

   
   

10. Finish Up: Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before drizzling them with icing.

Delicious homemade cinnamon rolls ready to be served.

Freshly Milled Flour Cinnamon Rolls

For those who appreciate the rich flavors and nutritional benefits of freshly milled flour, this recipe is made just for you! Using freshly milled flour gives your rolls a heartier texture and a more pronounced taste.

Ingredients

• For the Dough:

- 4 cups freshly milled flour (hard wheat recommended)

- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast

- ½ cup granulated sugar

- 1 tsp salt

- 1 cup warm milk

- ⅓ cup melted butter

- 2 large eggs

• For the Filling:

- ½ cup packed brown sugar

- 2 tsp ground cinnamon

- ⅓ cup softened butter

• For the Icing:

- 1 cup powdered sugar

- 2 tbsp milk

- ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: Combine warm milk and sugar in a bowl. Add the yeast and let it foam for about 5 minutes.

   
   

2. Combine Ingredients: Mix in the melted butter and eggs. Gradually fold in the freshly milled flour and salt until the dough is fully combined.

   
   

3. Knead: Move the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-8 minutes. The dough will feel more rustic, which is perfectly normal!

   
   

4. First Rise: Transfer the dough into a greased bowl, cover, and also let it rise until it doubles in size, which takes about 1 hour.

   
   

5. Prepare the Filling: Blend the brown sugar with cinnamon. Roll the dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter, and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over it.

   
   

6. Shape the Rolls: Roll tightly and cut into 12 rounds, placing them in a greased baking dish.

   
   

7. Second Rise: Cover and allow them to rise for another 30 minutes.

   
   

8. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.

   
   

9. Prepare Icing: In a bowl, whisk the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract together.

   
   

10. Serve: Once baked and cooled slightly, drizzle with icing and savor the wholesome flavor.

Mouthwatering cinnamon rolls drizzled with icing, ready to be enjoyed.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls

• Don’t Rush the Rising: Allowing the dough to rise longer can create fluffier rolls. An extra 30 minutes can make a significant difference!

  
  

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh yeast combined with newly milled flour greatly enhances flavor and texture.

  
  

• Experiment with Spices: While cinnamon is classic, consider adding nutmeg or a splash of vanilla for unique flavors.

  
  

• Make Ahead and Freeze: Shape the rolls, refrigerate them overnight, and bake them fresh in the morning for a delightful surprise!

  
  

Warm cinnamon rolls cooling on the rack, ready for icing.

Savor the Moment

Whether you choose the straightforward charm of all-purpose flour or the rich aroma of freshly milled flour, these cinnamon roll recipes are destined to create moments of joy in your kitchen. The comfort of fresh homemade cinnamon rolls is something special, especially when shared with loved ones. Embrace the joy of baking, create lasting memories, and indulge in delightful treats that suit any occasion. Happy baking!