Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls

There’s something incredibly heartwarming about the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen. These are not just any cinnamon rolls; they are Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls that will take you back to simpler times with their soft, fluffy texture and sweet, gooey filling. Perfect for a cozy brunch or a delightful treat any day of the week, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the details of how to create these scrumptious rolls from scratch.

Why I Love This Recipe

There’s a special charm about making Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls that goes beyond just the taste. It’s the process of mixing the dough, watching it rise, and rolling it out that brings a sense of joy and nostalgia. The combination of warm water, sugar, and mashed potatoes creates a dough that is incredibly fluffy and soft. Plus, the filling of butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon is a timeless classic that never fails to impress. Each bite is a reminder of home, comfort, and love.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 1-1/4 cups warm water
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup unseasoned mashed potatoes (no milk)
• 1 egg
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 3 envelopes active dry yeast (6 3/4 teaspoons, I use Red Star Yeast)
• 3 tablespoons nonfat dry milk powder
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2-1/2 to 3 cups bread flour
• 1/2 cup butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1-1/2 tablespoons cinnamon

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Mixing bowl – for combining the dough ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate measurements.
• Rolling pin – for rolling out the dough to the perfect thickness.
• Baking dish – to hold the rolls while they bake.
• Plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel – for covering the dough while it rises.

Build Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and vegetable oil. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.

Step 2: Mix in the Potatoes and Egg

Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add the mashed potatoes, egg, and salt. Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Add the nonfat dry milk powder and 3 cups of all-purpose flour to the mixture. Stir until a dough begins to form. Gradually add 2-1/2 to 3 cups of bread flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and is no longer sticky.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Form it into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, turning it to coat with oil.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 6: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, mix together the room temperature butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until it forms a smooth paste.

Step 7: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a 16×24-inch rectangle.

Step 8: Spread the Filling

Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Step 9: Roll it Up

Starting from the long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seams to seal.

Step 10: Cut the Rolls

Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the log into 12 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cut side up.

Step 11: Second Rise

Cover the rolls with plastic wrap or a towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.

Step 12: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 13: Cool and Serve

Allow the rolls to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before serving. Drizzle with your favorite icing if desired.

Make It Fit Your Plan

• For a healthier version, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
• To make them dairy-free, replace the butter in the filling with a plant-based alternative.
• Want to add some flair? Consider adding chopped nuts or raisins to the filling for extra texture.
• For a quick version, use store-bought dough and simply add the filling before baking.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

• Overworking the Dough: When kneading, be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can lead to tough cinnamon rolls.
• Not Enough Rise: Ensure your yeast is fresh and your water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
• Filling Leakage: Make sure to pinch the seams well when rolling the dough to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
• Dry Rolls: Avoid overbaking. Keep an eye on your rolls as they bake, and remove them as soon as they turn golden brown.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

These Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep. You can refrigerate the unbaked rolls overnight; simply cover them tightly and let them rise in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. If you want to freeze them, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast. You won’t need to proof it in warm water; just mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

What can I do if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough isn’t rising, check the temperature of your water; it should be warm, not hot. If that’s not the problem, your yeast may be expired.

Can I make these cinnamon rolls in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls up to the second rise, cover them, and refrigerate them overnight. Just bring them to room temperature before baking.

What’s the best way to store leftover cinnamon rolls?

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Quick Weeknight Wins

• Sally’s Easy Cinnamon Rolls – A quicker version with fewer ingredients.
• Healthy Cinnamon Rolls – A lighter take on this classic treat.
• Vegan Cinnamon Rolls – A plant-based option that’s just as delicious.

The Takeaway

Baking Old Fashioned Cinnamon Rolls in your own kitchen is not only rewarding but also a wonderful way to create lasting memories with family and friends. These rolls are soft, sweet, and filled with cinnamon goodness, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated the next day, they are sure to bring smiles to your table. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the delightful aroma of cinnamon rolls fill your home!