Sweet Rolls are soft, fluffy, and deliciously indulgent treats that are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. These rolls are lightly sweetened with a buttery dough, and often filled with cinnamon, sugar, and sometimes a touch of vanilla or cream cheese. Topped with a rich glaze or frosting, sweet rolls are a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed warm out of the oven or made ahead for a special occasion. Their soft texture and sugary filling make them an irresistible comfort food, perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
For the filling:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk or heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Heat the milk, water, and butter together until warm (about 110°F/43°C), and add to the flour mixture. Add the egg and beat until smooth. Gradually stir in the remaining flour to form a soft dough.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside. Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface into a rectangle about 15×9 inches. Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top.
- Roll and cut the dough: Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 even pieces and place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Cover and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Bake the sweet rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Make the glaze: While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
- Glaze and serve: Once the rolls are baked, drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls and serve immediately.
Enjoy these soft and gooey Sweet Rolls, perfect for any occasion where a little sweetness is needed!