Introduction
Step into the comforting world of cinnamon bliss with this exquisite cinnamon buns recipe. Perfectly soft and fluffy, these buns are packed with a rich cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze. Ideal for cozy mornings or a delightful afternoon treat.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
500g all-purpose flour
100g granulated sugar
75g unsalted butter, softened
220ml milk, warm
1 packet (7g) instant yeast
2 large eggs
5g salt
10g ground cinnamon
200g brown sugar
100g unsalted butter, melted (for filling)
200g cream cheese, softened
150g powdered sugar
5ml vanilla extract
60ml heavy cream
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Yield: 12 cinnamon buns
Directions
1. In a large bowl, combine milk and yeast, letting it sit for 5 minutes. Add eggs, granulated sugar, butter, and salt. Gradually mix in flour until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Transfer to a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
3. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to a rectangle approximately 40×50 cm. Brush with melted butter.
4. Mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon, and sprinkle evenly over the buttered dough.
5. Tightly roll up the dough from the long side, then cut into 12 even slices.
6. Arrange the slices in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
7. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the buns for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. While the buns are baking, prepare the cream cheese glaze by beating together cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until smooth.
9. Once the buns are done, let cool for 10 minutes and then drizzle the cream cheese glaze over top before serving.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and instant yeast. Allow this mixture to rest for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. Then add the eggs, granulated sugar, softened butter, and salt to the bowl. Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour until a dough begins to form.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes, working it until it becomes smooth and elastic. Once ready, transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, approximately 1 hour.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
After the dough has risen, roll it out onto a floured surface into a rectangle measuring about 40×50 cm. Brush the surface generously with melted butter.
Step 4: Add the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon together. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough, creating an aromatic layer that promises delightful flavor.
Step 5: Roll and Slice
Starting from the long edge of the rectangle, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Once rolled, cut the log into 12 even slices, each revealing the beautiful swirl inside.
Step 6: Second Rise
Arrange the slices in a greased baking dish, spacing them slightly apart. Cover the dish with a towel and let the buns rise for another 30 minutes, allowing them to puff up beautifully.
Step 7: Preheat and Bake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the cinnamon buns for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and your kitchen is filled with a warm, inviting aroma.
Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze
While the buns are baking, prepare the cream cheese glaze. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 9: Drizzle and Serve
Once the buns are done baking, allow them to cool for about 10 minutes. Then, generously drizzle the luscious cream cheese glaze over the warm buns before serving, transforming them into an irresistible treat.
Notes
Tip for Perfect Dough
Make sure your milk is warm but not hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast and prevent proper rising.
Flavor Variations
For added flavor, consider mixing nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the filling or topping the glazed buns with a sprinkle of sea salt for a delightful contrast.
Storage Instructions
These cinnamon bliss buns are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their softness.
Cook Techniques
Proofing Yeast
To activate the instant yeast, combine it with warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This ensures the yeast becomes bubbly and ready to help your dough rise.
Kneading Dough
Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it reaches a smooth and elastic texture. This process develops the gluten, which gives the buns their fluffy consistency.
Rolling Out Dough
Roll the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface. Aim for a size of approximately 40×50 cm, which allows for even distribution of the filling when rolled up.
Creating the Filling
Mix brown sugar and ground cinnamon together to create a rich filling that will go on top of the melted butter spread on the dough.
Cutting the Buns
After rolling up the filled dough, slice it into 12 even pieces. A sharp knife or dental floss can help achieve clean cuts, ensuring uniform cooking.
Second Rise
Allow the sliced buns to rise again in the baking dish for about 30 minutes. This second proofing helps them become airy and fluffy during baking.
Baking
Preheat your oven to 180°C and bake the buns for 25-30 minutes. Look for a golden-brown color to indicate they are cooked through.
Making the Glaze
Prepare the cream cheese glaze by beating together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until it’s smooth and creamy.
Cooling and Serving
Once baked, let the buns cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes before drizzling the cream cheese glaze over them for a delightful finish.
FAQ
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast, but you will need to activate it in warm water first before adding it to the dough ingredients.
How do I store leftover cinnamon buns?
Store leftover cinnamon buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them or freeze them for later.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling out.
What can I use instead of cream cheese in the glaze?
If you prefer a dairy-free option, try using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk.
How do I reheat cinnamon buns?
To reheat, place the buns in a preheated oven at 150°C for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave for 15-20 seconds, covered with a damp paper towel to keep them moist.
Conclusion
Indulging in these cinnamon bliss buns is a delightful experience that brings warmth and comfort to your day. With their soft, fluffy texture and the rich, sweet flavor of cinnamon and cream cheese glaze, these buns are perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or savored later, they are sure to impress family and friends alike.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cinnamon Roll Cake
Transform the classic flavors of cinnamon buns into an easy-to-make cake. Combine a moist vanilla cake base with cinnamon swirls and top with a cream cheese frosting for a wonderful dessert.
Maple Pecan Cinnamon Rolls
Add a twist to your cinnamon rolls by incorporating maple syrup and chopped pecans into the filling. Drizzle with a maple glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Buns
Mix in chocolate chips to the cinnamon-sugar filling for a decadent take on the traditional bun. The combination of cinnamon and chocolate is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Apple Cinnamon Buns
Incorporate diced apples into the filling for a delightful fruity version of your cinnamon buns. Top with a caramel drizzle for an added sweet touch.
Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Buns
Celebrate the fall season by adding canned pumpkin and pumpkin spice to the dough. These flavorful buns are perfect for cozy autumn mornings.
Nutella-Stuffed Cinnamon Buns
For a rich and indulgent treat, fill the center of each bun with Nutella before rolling. The melted chocolate-hazelnut spread pairs perfectly with the cinnamon flavor.
