Sweet Cinnamon Rolls with Vanilla Glaze Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to the irresistible aroma of bakery-fresh sweet rolls, you are in for a treat with this Sweet Cinnamon Rolls with Vanilla Glaze Recipe. These rolls are the perfect blend of soft, pillowy dough swirled with a cinnamon-sugar filling, all topped off with a luscious vanilla glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness. They are a timeless classic that’s as comforting as it is delectable, guaranteed to brighten your mornings or sweeten any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, everyday ingredients come together beautifully in this Sweet Cinnamon Rolls with Vanilla Glaze Recipe. Each one plays an essential role, whether it’s building the tender dough, injecting buttery cinnamony richness, or creating that irresistible glaze that ties everything together.

• All-purpose flour: the foundation for soft and fluffy rolls, choose a good-quality brand for best results.
• Granulated sugar: added to the dough for a hint of sweetness that balances the cinnamon filling.
• Active dry yeast: vital for that perfect rise and airy texture.
• Milk: enriches the dough and helps activate the yeast.
• Unsalted butter: used in both the dough and filling to add richness and softness.
• Salt: a pinch enhances the depth of flavors.
• Eggs: provide structure and tenderness to the dough.
• Brown sugar: creates that classic caramel-like sweetness in the filling.
• Ground cinnamon: for that unmistakable warm spice aroma that makes cinnamon rolls so special.
• Powdered sugar: the base for the smooth, sweet vanilla glaze.
• Vanilla extract: infuses the glaze with an irresistible aroma and flavor.

How to Make Sweet Cinnamon Rolls with Vanilla Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Begin by waking up your yeast with warm milk and a tiny pinch of sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until frothy and bubbly—this step guarantees your rolls will rise beautifully and have that light, airy texture.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix your flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut the butter into the mixture until it looks like coarse crumbs—this is key to achieving tender, flaky layers in your rolls.

Step 3: Mix in Eggs and Yeast

Beat the eggs thoroughly and add them, along with your activated yeast mixture, to the flour mixture. Knead everything until you form a smooth, elastic dough—this is where the magic of texture starts to appear.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Set it somewhere warm and cozy to rise until it doubles in size, typically an hour or so. Patience here rewards you with soft rolls.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, whisk together brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This filling is the soul of your cinnamon rolls, packing each bite with sweet spice.

Step 6: Roll and Fill the Dough

Lightly flour your surface and roll the dough out into a large rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle your cinnamon-sugar filling generously across the top for that perfect swirl inside each roll.

Step 7: Roll Up and Cut

Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log, then cut it into twelve equal portions. This step shapes your rolls and promises each one is filled with cinnamon goodness.

Step 8: Second Rise

Arrange your rolls in a greased baking dish, cover again, and let them rise until noticeably puffed. This second rise ensures the rolls stay light and fluffy after baking.

Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven and bake the rolls for about 25 minutes, or until they’re a golden-brown delight and fully cooked through. That warm, toasty aroma will fill your kitchen in no time.

Step 10: Prepare the Vanilla Glaze

While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create a smooth glaze. The vanilla glaze is the sweet finishing touch that makes these cinnamon rolls utterly irresistible.

Step 11: Glaze and Serve

Once your rolls are warm from the oven, drizzle the vanilla glaze generously over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy each gooey, sweet bite of your homemade masterpiece.

How to Serve Sweet Cinnamon Rolls with Vanilla Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

For a little extra flair, sprinkle your sweet cinnamon rolls with a dusting of powdered sugar or chopped toasted pecans. A few fresh berries on the side can add a bright contrast, making them look as delightful as they taste.

Side Dishes

These rolls are wonderfully indulgent on their own but pair perfectly with a cup of rich coffee, a creamy latte, or even fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness. They also work beautifully alongside a savory breakfast like scrambled eggs or bacon if you want a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the traditional plate—serve your rolls warm in a rustic wooden basket lined with a cozy cloth napkin for a charming homemade vibe. Or stack them on a tiered dessert stand for brunch parties, allowing guests to grab and enjoy these sweet treats with ease.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep them soft and moist. For a slightly chilled environment, you can refrigerate them, but bring back to room temperature before serving for best texture.

Freezing

Good news—these sweet cinnamon rolls freeze beautifully! After baking and glazing, let them cool completely, then wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months, perfect for future indulgences.

Reheating

To enjoy your stored or frozen cinnamon rolls, reheat them gently in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or pop them in a warm oven for a few minutes until they’re soft and gooey again. Add a fresh drizzle of vanilla glaze if desired to recapture that just-baked magic.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Absolutely! If using instant yeast, you can mix it directly with the flour and other dry ingredients without proofing it first. Just remember to slightly adjust the amount if your yeast type differs in strength.

What milk works best for this recipe?

Whole milk is ideal for a richer dough, but you can use 2% or even non-dairy milk alternatives like almond or oat milk. Just ensure they are unsweetened and warm enough to activate the yeast properly.

How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?

Look for a golden brown color on top, and if you gently press a roll, it should spring back slightly. You can also check the bottom by lifting a roll with a spatula; it should be firm and not doughy.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the filling?

Yes! Adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins to the cinnamon-sugar filling is a delicious way to add texture and flavor. Just sprinkle them evenly before rolling up the dough.

Is it possible to make these rolls vegan?

With a few swaps like plant-based milk, vegan butter, and egg replacements (such as flax eggs), you can create a vegan version of this recipe. Keep in mind the texture might vary slightly, but the flavor will still be fantastic.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about homemade sweet cinnamon rolls, and this Sweet Cinnamon Rolls with Vanilla Glaze Recipe captures that comforting magic like nothing else. It’s a recipe worth baking on slow weekend mornings, for celebrations, or whenever you want to share a little sweetness with loved ones. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the warm, cinnamon-scented happiness straight from your oven!

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