Easy Cinnamon Bun Recipe for Perfect Homemade Treats

In the world of baking, few treats evoke the warmth and comfort of home quite like a cinnamon bun. These delightful pastries, with their sweet, spicy cinnamon filling swirled in a fluffy dough and topped with creamy icing, are loved by people of all ages. Making cinnamon buns from scratch might seem intimidating, but with this easy recipe, you can master the art of baking these perfect treats right in your kitchen. Whether it's for a lazy Sunday morning, a special occasion, or just because, homemade cinnamon buns will never disappoint.

Ingredients

• For the Dough:
  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
  • 2 eggs, room temperature
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons instant yeast
• For the Filling:
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/3 cup softened butter
• For the Icing:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Add the eggs, melted butter, flour, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-8 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Creating the Cinnamon Swirl

1. After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. On a floured surface, roll it into a 16x21-inch rectangle.
2. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a ¹⁄₄ inch border.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture over the butter.
4. Starting at the long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log.

Baking the Buns

1. Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12 to 15 equal pieces.
2. Place the rolls into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise again for 30 minutes.
3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon buns for about 25-30 minutes or until they are a light golden brown.

Making the Icing

1. While the buns are baking, prepare the icing by mixing powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk or cream until smooth. Adjust the thickness by adding more milk or cream if needed.
2. Once the buns are done and still warm, drizzle or spread the icing over them.

🔍 Note: If you find your dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be cautious not to over-flour, as this can make the buns tough.

The magic of homemade cinnamon buns lies not just in their delicious taste but also in the joy of creating something special from scratch. Each bun, with its swirl of cinnamon-sugar filling, promises a burst of flavor that store-bought buns can't match. Baking your own cinnamon buns allows for customization, ensuring every bite is just as you or your loved ones like it. Whether you prefer more cinnamon, extra gooey filling, or a different icing flavor, this recipe is versatile. From the moment you mix the ingredients to the aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake, every step of making cinnamon buns is an experience. These buns, fresh from the oven and covered in sweet icing, bring comfort, joy, and a sense of accomplishment.

Can I make cinnamon buns ahead of time?

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Yes, you can prepare the buns up to the point of shaping them into the pan and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature and rise before baking.

What can I use instead of milk?

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If you’re out of milk, you can use a non-dairy alternative like almond milk or oat milk. However, the flavor and texture might slightly change.

Can I freeze cinnamon buns?

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Absolutely. You can freeze baked buns before icing them. Just bake from frozen at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, then ice.