Easy Cinnamon Rolls
Delight in warm, fluffy cinnamon rolls with a tender crumb and a sweet cinnamon-sugar swirl. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, these soft rolls are easy to make and irresistibly flavorful, appealing to family and friends alike seeking a comforting treat with a hint of cinnamon spice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut shortening into the sifted self-rising flour and sugar until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Dissolve active dry yeast in warm water and mix into the flour mixture.
- Stir until well combined.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and let it rise for 1 hour.
- Knead the dough well on a lightly floured surface.
- Roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Sprinkle generously with cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Roll up the dough and cut crosswise into 1/2-inch slices to form individual rolls.
- Cover the rolls and let them set overnight at room temperature.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10 to 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Frost the warm rolls before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with butter. If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can make your own by combining all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt. To enhance the cinnamon flavor, mix in a bit of nutmeg or allspice with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Ensure your water is warm but not hot to properly activate the yeast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious cinnamon rolls warm, drizzled with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk for added sweetness. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a brunch spread, consider serving alongside a fresh fruit salad or Easy Tomato Aspic for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap the rolls in foil and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave for about 15-20 seconds each.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Cinnamon Rolls contains roughly 1066 calories, with 3g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 103g fat. It is a good source of iron (14% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast in place of active dry yeast. Simply mix it directly into the flour without needing to dissolve it in warm water. This can save you some time and ensure a faster rise.
How can I make the rolls sweeter?
To increase the sweetness of the rolls, you can add more sugar to the dough or use a sweeter frosting. Consider incorporating a cream cheese frosting or adding a sprinkle of brown sugar to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a richer flavor.
What should I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to using water that is too hot or too cold. Ensure the water is warm (about 110°F/43°C) to properly activate the yeast. If the yeast is expired, it may also fail to rise, so check the expiration date before use.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).