OUTNUMBERED One Hour Cinnamon Rolls

 OUTNUMBERED ~ One Hour Cinnamon Rolls

 

Few things in life compare to the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen. This recipe is perfect for anyone craving homemade cinnamon rolls but doesn’t want to spend hours waiting for the dough to rise multiple times. With just one hour from start to finish, you’ll have soft, fluffy rolls filled with cinnamon sugar and topped with a luscious glaze.

 Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
• ¼ cup warm water
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

For the Filling:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, but adds depth)

For the Glaze (Classic Option):

• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp milk (or cream for richer flavor)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional, but highly recommended):

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1–2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)

 Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough (10 minutes)

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together warm milk, warm water, melted butter, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add the egg and salt, then gradually mix in the flour. Stir with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead for 5–7 minutes (by hand or mixer) until the dough is smooth and elastic. If too sticky, add a little flour, but don’t overdo it—soft dough makes fluffier rolls.

2. Quick Rise (15 minutes)

1. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rest in a warm spot for 15 minutes. It won’t double like traditional dough but will puff slightly.

3. Prepare the Filling

1. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla until it forms a spreadable paste.

4. Shape the Rolls (15 minutes)

1. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 12×16 inches.
2. Spread the cinnamon mixture evenly over the dough.
3. Roll up tightly from the long side into a log.
4. Slice into 12 even rolls using dental floss or a sharp knife.

5. Second Rise (15 minutes)

1. Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cover and let them rest for another 15 minutes while preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C).

6. Bake (20 minutes)

1. Bake uncovered for 18–22 minutes, until golden brown on top and baked through.

7. Glaze or Frost

• For a simple glaze: whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla, then drizzle over warm rolls.
• For cream cheese frosting: beat cream cheese and butter until smooth, then add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk. Spread generously over the rolls while still warm.

 Tips for Success

• Warm environment: If your kitchen is cool, let the dough rise in the oven with just the light on (no heat).
• Extra gooey rolls: Add a drizzle of heavy cream over the rolls before baking.
• Make ahead: Shape the rolls, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

 Serving Suggestions

These cinnamon rolls are perfect for:

• Weekend brunches with family
• Holiday breakfasts (Christmas morning classic!)
• A sweet afternoon treat with coffee or tea
• Dessert with an extra drizzle of caramel sauce

 Why They’re Special

Traditional cinnamon rolls often take 3+ hours because of long proofing times. This version cuts it down to just one hour, thanks to instant yeast and a quick-rise method. The result? Soft, buttery, cinnamon-swirled rolls that taste like they took all day—without the wait.