Evelyn’s Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

If you have been on the hunt for a warm, comforting, and utterly delicious treat to make at home, look no further than Evelyn’s Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe. This recipe brings together soft, fluffy dough layered with a perfectly spiced cinnamon sugar filling, all topped with a luscious vanilla glaze that melts into every nook and cranny. Each bite is a heavenly blend of sweetness and warmth that feels like a cozy kitchen hug. Trust me, once you try Evelyn’s Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe, it will quickly become a beloved staple for breakfast, brunch, or whenever you need a little sweet pick-me-up.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Evelyn’s Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe truly special is the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each component plays such a vital role—from the yeast that gives the rolls their airy rise to the cinnamon sugar that adds that irresistible aroma and flavor. These few staples come together to create something that tastes like it took hours, even though it’s straightforward to put together.

• ¼ cup yeast: This magical leavening agent activates the dough and makes the rolls light and fluffy.
• 2 cups warm water: Needed to dissolve the yeast and hydrate the dough perfectly.
• 6 Tbsp sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to feed the yeast and flavor the dough.
• 6 Tbsp butter (melted): Creates richness and tenderness in the dough that melts in your mouth.
• 1 Tbsp salt: Balances the sweetness and heightens the overall flavor complexity.
• ½ cup powdered milk: Adds depth and softness to the dough texture.
• 2 eggs: Help bind the dough and add richness.
• 6 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your dough, providing structure and chew.
• ½ cup butter (melted, for filling): Gives the cinnamon sugar filling a smooth, buttery finish.
• 1½ cup sugar (for filling): Sweetens the filling to perfection.
• 1¼ tsp cinnamon: The star spice that gives the rolls their signature warmth and aroma.
• 1 (32-oz) bag powdered sugar: Used for the heavenly glaze topping.
• 1 Tbsp vanilla extract: Infuses the glaze with a subtle, comforting sweetness.
• 1 cup milk: Thins the glaze and adds creamy richness.

How to Make Evelyn’s Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast Mixture

Start by combining the yeast, warm water, sugar, and 6 tablespoons of melted butter in the bowl of a heavy-duty stand mixer. This mixture needs to sit for about three minutes until it’s foamy and bubbly. This shows your yeast is alive and ready to turn your dough into delicious fluffy rolls.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Next, add the salt, powdered milk, eggs, and the all-purpose flour. Attach your dough hook and mix until everything is thoroughly combined into a smooth dough. Cover the bowl loosely and let the dough rise until it doubles in size, which usually takes about 45 minutes. Patience here will reward you with an incredible texture.

Step 3: Divide the Dough

Once the dough has risen, take half of it out of the bowl. This makes handling the dough easier and ensures your cinnamon rolls will be evenly sized.

Step 4: Roll Out and Fill

Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough into a 24×14-inch rectangle. Mix together the 1½ cups sugar and cinnamon in a bowl, then spread ¼ cup of melted butter evenly on top of your dough. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over it. This layering is key for that irresistible cinnamon center in every roll.

Step 5: Roll the Dough Tight

Starting from the long edge of the rectangle, roll the dough tightly like a jelly roll. The tighter the roll, the better the swirls will hold their shape and burst with flavor after baking.

Step 6: Cut and Arrange in Pan

Cut your rolled dough into 1-inch slices and place the pieces into greased baking pans. Repeat the rolling, filling, and slicing process with the remaining dough and cinnamon sugar to finish the batch.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover your pans and let the rolls rise again until they double in size, which may take between 45 to 60 minutes. This second rise is essential for lightness and dough fluffiness.

Step 8: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350ºF and bake the cinnamon rolls for 20 to 25 minutes. You want them golden brown on top but still soft inside. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overbake and dry out.

Step 9: Make the Vanilla Glaze

While the rolls bake, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk in a medium bowl. Once your cinnamon rolls come out of the oven, generously drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls. This finishing touch melts beautifully and adds that final layer of indulgence.

How to Serve Evelyn’s Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

While the classic powdered sugar glaze is iconic, you can elevate your cinnamon rolls with some additional garnishes. A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts adds a lovely crunch contrast, while a pinch of sea salt over the glaze can create a sophisticated sweet-salty balance. You can even add fresh berries or a dollop of cream cheese frosting for more indulgence.

Side Dishes

Cinnamon rolls shine best alongside a hot beverage like coffee, chai tea, or rich hot chocolate. For a heartier brunch spread, pair them with fresh fruit salad or scrambled eggs for savory contrast. The sweetness and fluffiness of cinnamon rolls complement many flavors, making them a versatile star at any table.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, arrange Evelyn’s Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe on a festive platter in a circular pattern to showcase the beautiful swirls. You can also place individual rolls in mini paper liners for easy grabbing at parties or family get-togethers. Drizzling the glaze with some caramel or a dusting of cocoa powder adds both visual appeal and flavor depth. Playing with presentation can transform these classic rolls into a stunning centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover cinnamon rolls (which is rare but wonderful), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and fresh so you can enjoy them later without sacrificing that perfect texture.

Freezing

Evelyn’s Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe freezes beautifully, which is great for planning ahead. Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw them overnight in the fridge or on the counter before reheating.

Reheating

To revive the soft, gooey texture, reheat cinnamon rolls in the microwave for about 20 to 30 seconds or in a 350ºF oven for 5 to 10 minutes until warmed through. Adding a little glaze or butter on top before reheating keeps them extra moist and decadent.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of regular yeast in Evelyn’s Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for regular yeast. Since instant yeast doesn’t need to be activated in warm water, you can add it directly to the dry ingredients and proceed with the recipe as usual. Just keep an eye on rise times, as they may be quicker.

Is it possible to make these cinnamon rolls gluten-free?

While this recipe calls for all-purpose flour, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends that are designed for baking. Be sure to choose one that includes xanthan gum or another binder to help mimic the texture. Keep in mind that rise and chew of the dough might differ slightly.

Can I prepare the dough the night before?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to the first rise stage, then cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight. The cold ferment can actually enhance the flavor. The next day, proceed with rolling, filling, and baking the rolls as directed.

What if I want a cream cheese glaze instead of vanilla?

A cream cheese glaze is a delicious alternative! Simply beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a splash of milk until smooth. Spread or drizzle this on warm rolls for a tangy, luscious finish that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.

How can I make my cinnamon rolls fluffier?

Fluffiness comes down to good yeast activity and proper rising times. Make sure your water is warm but not hot when activating the yeast, and give the dough enough time to double in size both before and after rolling. Using powdered milk and eggs in the dough, as in this recipe, also helps produce a tender crumb.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have all the secrets and steps to make Evelyn’s Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and fill your kitchen with the comforting scent of fresh-baked goodness. These cinnamon rolls are more than just a sweet treat—they’re a heartwarming experience perfect for sharing with family, friends, or even yourself. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s such a cherished favorite. Happy baking!

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