Why Make This Recipe
Soft & Fluffy Cinnamon Buns are a wonderful treat to enjoy for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. They are perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weekend at home. The sweet aroma of cinnamon and sugar fills the air, making it hard to resist these delightful rolls. Plus, with a creamy frosting on top, every bite is indulgent and satisfying.
How to Make Soft & Fluffy Cinnamon Buns
Making these cinnamon buns is easier than you might think! The dough comes together quickly, and the result is light, fluffy buns that are sure to please anyone who tries them. Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of delicious cinnamon buns.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup milk (110-115°F (187g))
- ¼ cup brown sugar (45g)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup butter (melted (58g))
- 2 egg yolks
- 3 cups bread flour (360g)
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup butter (softened)
- 1½ tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ⅔ cup brown sugar
- ¾ cup confectioners’ sugar
- ¼ cup cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons butter (softened)
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, add the milk, brown sugar, and yeast. Cover and let sit for 10 minutes to activate the yeast.
- Once the yeast is bubbly and foamy, add the melted butter and egg yolks. Using the paddle attachment, mix until well combined.
- Add the flour and salt. Mix on low speed until the dough starts to come together. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- Using the dough hook, knead on low speed for 10-15 minutes, until the dough passes the windowpane test. The dough should be tacky and clear the sides of the bowl. If it’s sticky, add 1 tablespoon flour at a time until it reaches the right consistency.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead by hand for another 1-2 minutes to form a soft dough.
- Grease a large bowl with butter and place the dough in it. Cover and let rise for 1-2 hours, until it doubles in size.
- Turn the dough out onto a well-floured surface. Roll it into an 11×14-inch rectangle (with the short side closest to you).
- Spread the softened butter over the dough, leaving an inch border on the far edge. Sprinkle cinnamon and sugar evenly over the top and press it into the butter.
- Starting at the short edge closest to you, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut it into nine even pieces, about 1¼-inch thick, using a string of unflavored dental floss or a serrated knife.
- Arrange the pieces in a greased 9-inch or 10-inch square pan. Cover and let rise for 45 minutes, until they are risen and puffy. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown. Allow the buns to cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before frosting.
- While the buns cool, make the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the frosting ingredients until fluffy and smooth. Spread it over the top of the buns and serve immediately.
How to Serve Soft & Fluffy Cinnamon Buns
Serve the cinnamon buns warm for the best experience. You can enjoy them as they are or add extra frosting on top for an indulgent touch. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a perfect breakfast treat.
How to Store Soft & Fluffy Cinnamon Buns
To store leftover cinnamon buns, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for 2-3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them. Wrap the buns tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Tips to Make Soft & Fluffy Cinnamon Buns
- Make sure your milk is at the right temperature to activate the yeast.
- Kneading the dough well is key to achieving that light and airy texture.
- Don’t skip the rising time; this helps the buns become fluffy.
- Feel free to add nuts or raisins for an extra flavor twist.
Variation
You can experiment with different fillings for your cinnamon buns. Adding chocolate chips or nuts into the filling can give a unique twist to the classic recipe. You might also try a different icing, such as a maple glaze, for another layer of flavor.
FAQs
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but the buns might not be as chewy and fluffy as those made with bread flour.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise the night before in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling and baking.
How do I know when the buns are done baking?
Look for a golden brown color on top. You can also check the internal temperature, which should be around 190°F when fully cooked.
Soft & Fluffy Cinnamon Buns
Ingredients
Method
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, add the milk, brown sugar, and yeast. Cover and let sit for 10 minutes to activate the yeast.
- Once the yeast is bubbly and foamy, add the melted butter and egg yolks. Using the paddle attachment, mix until well combined.
- Add the flour and salt. Mix on low speed until the dough starts to come together. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- Using the dough hook, knead on low speed for 10-15 minutes, until the dough passes the windowpane test. The dough should be tacky and clear the sides of the bowl. If it's sticky, add 1 tablespoon flour at a time until it reaches the right consistency.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead by hand for another 1-2 minutes to form a soft dough.
- Grease a large bowl with butter and place the dough in it. Cover and let rise for 1-2 hours, until it doubles in size.
- Turn the dough out onto a well-floured surface. Roll it into an 11x14-inch rectangle (with the short side closest to you).
- Spread the softened butter over the dough, leaving an inch border on the far edge. Sprinkle cinnamon and sugar evenly over the top and press it into the butter.
- Starting at the short edge closest to you, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut it into nine even pieces, about 1¼-inch thick, using a string of unflavored dental floss or a serrated knife.
- Arrange the pieces in a greased 9-inch or 10-inch square pan. Cover and let rise for 45 minutes, until they are risen and puffy. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown. Allow the buns to cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before frosting.
- While the buns cool, make the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the frosting ingredients until fluffy and smooth. Spread it over the top of the buns and serve immediately.