Homemade Cinnamon Rolls in Under 2 Hours

Quick and Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Many people believe that making cinnamon rolls from scratch is a time-consuming endeavor, often taking an entire day. Traditional recipes can indeed be lengthy, involving multiple stages of dough preparation and rising times. However, with the right recipe, you can significantly cut down on the time required without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Ingredients

• 2 cups warm water
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 4 teaspoons dry yeast (or two packages)
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup canola oil (or any cooking oil, or shortening)
• 6 to 7 cups flour

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: Dissolve the yeast in the warm water and let it sit for a minute or two.
2. Mix Ingredients: Add sugar, salt, oil, eggs, and 2 cups of flour. Beat until smooth.
3. Knead the Dough: Stir in 3 more cups of flour. Begin kneading the dough, adding the final cup of flour. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, a quarter to a half cup at a time.
4. Rest the Dough: Let the dough rest for 15 to 20 minutes.
5. Prepare the Dough: Roll the dough into a rectangle (24 to 30 inches long by about 16 inches wide). Spread with soft butter and sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar.
6. Shape the Rolls: Starting at the wide end, roll into a log. Cut into equal-sized slices (approximately one inch wide) and place into two greased 9x13 pans.
7. Let Rise: Put in a warm place to rise for 45 minutes.
8. Bake: Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Cool and Serve: Allow to cool for 5 minutes, then turn out of the pans.

This recipe yields two dozen cinnamon rolls. For larger rolls, cut the dough into 12 pieces, each about 2 inches wide.

Time Breakdown

Interesting Facts

• Yeast Activation: Yeast is a living organism that ferments sugars, producing carbon dioxide and alcohol, which makes the dough rise. The ideal temperature for activating yeast is between 105°F and 115°F.
• Cinnamon's Health Benefits: Cinnamon is not just a flavorful spice; it also has health benefits. It can help lower blood sugar levels and has anti-inflammatory properties (Healthline).
• Baking Statistics: According to a survey by the American Bakers Association, 34% of Americans bake at least once a month, and cinnamon rolls are among the top five most popular baked goods (American Bakers Association).

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls

1. Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh and active. Expired yeast can result in flat, dense rolls.
2. Proper Kneading: Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. This helps develop the gluten, giving the rolls their structure.
3. Warm Environment for Rising: A warm, draft-free environment is ideal for dough rising. If your kitchen is cold, you can place the dough in an oven with just the light on.

Conclusion

Making homemade cinnamon rolls doesn't have to be a daunting, all-day affair. With this streamlined recipe, you can enjoy the deliciousness of fresh, homemade cinnamon rolls in under two hours. Whether for a special breakfast or a sweet treat, these rolls are sure to impress.

For more baking tips and recipes, check out King Arthur Baking and AllRecipes.