Dive into the world of warm, fluffy, and irresistibly sweet Cinna-Buns! There’s nothing quite like the aroma of cinnamon and freshly baked dough wafting through your home. These homemade cinnamon buns are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a heartwarming delight for any occasion. Perfect for a cozy breakfast, a special brunch, or just to satisfy your sweet cravings, these Cinna-Buns are sure to impress. This recipe takes you through each step to ensure you create the most delicious, gooey, and perfectly glazed cinnamon buns right in your kitchen.

Cinna-Buns Recipe

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 egg, room temperature
  • 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour, more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) salt

For the Filling:

  • 3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons (30g) cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
  • 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 ml) milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) vanilla extract

Instructions

Preparing the Dough: Activating the Yeast:
  • In a large mixing bowl, gently stir the warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, until the yeast is frothy.

Making the Dough:

  • To the yeast mixture, add the remaining sugar, melted butter, and egg. Mix well.
  • Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preparing the Filling:

Making the Filling:

  • In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon.
  • Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
  • Spread the softened butter over the dough and then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top.
Rolling and Cutting:

Forming the Buns:

  • Roll up the dough tightly from the long edge.
  • Cut into 12 equal-sized pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.
Baking:

Baking the Buns:

  • Arrange the buns in a greased baking dish, leaving some space between each bun.
  • Cover and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Bake the buns for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown.
Glazing:
  1. Making the Glaze:
  • While the buns are baking, mix together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl to create the glaze.
  • Drizzle the glaze over the warm buns.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve Warm: Cinna-Buns are best enjoyed warm. They can be reheated in the microwave for a few seconds if they’ve cooled down or become stiff.
  • Add Nuts: For added crunch and flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on the buns just before baking.
  • Cream Cheese Frosting: For an alternative to the glaze, try a cream cheese frosting. It adds a rich, creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon filling.
  • Coffee or Tea: Serve these buns with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The robust flavors of the beverages complement the sweetness of the buns perfectly.

Storage Ideas

  • Room Temperature: Store leftover Cinna-Buns at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
  • Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.
  • Freezing: Cinna-Buns can be frozen for up to a month. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm up in the oven or microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I make Cinna-Buns gluten-free?
    Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
  2. Can I prepare the dough in advance?
    Absolutely! Prepare the dough, fill it, roll it, cut it into buns, and then refrigerate overnight. Allow them to come to room temperature and puff up before baking.
  3. What can I use instead of yeast?
    Yeast is essential for the texture and rise of the buns, and there isn’t a direct substitute. However, some bakers use baking powder and baking soda with acid (like buttermilk) for a similar effect.
  4. Why are my Cinna-Buns not fluffy?
    This could be due to not letting the dough rise enough or using old yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh and active for the best results.
  5. Can I add fruit to the filling?
    Yes, small diced apples or raisins can be added to the cinnamon sugar filling for extra flavor and texture.

Creating the perfect Cinna-Buns at home is a rewarding experience that results in a delicious treat, perfect for sharing with loved ones. With this detailed recipe, you’re equipped to make soft, fluffy, and irresistibly sweet cinnamon buns, complete with a glossy glaze. Whether for a special occasion or a weekend treat, these Cinna-Buns are sure to bring warmth and joy to any table.