German Cinnamon Rolls

Prep: 20 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: German

Fluffy, cinnamon-swirled rolls with a buttery, sweet filling, perfect for breakfast or brunch, offering warm, comforting flavors that appeal to family and friends alike.

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Ingredients

  • 3 cups Bisquick
  • 1 package dry yeast
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup warm water
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • 1 stick butter

Instructions

  1. Mix dry yeast with warm water and let stand for 10 minutes.
  2. Blend in Bisquick until a dough forms.
  3. Add cold water and knead into four balls.
  4. Roll each ball into a 1/4-inch thick rectangle.
  5. Melt half a stick of butter and brush onto each rectangle.
  6. Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar mixture.
  7. Roll up each rectangle like a jelly roll.
  8. Slice each roll into 1-inch pieces.
  9. Lay slices, cut side down, on a lightly greased cookie sheet.
  10. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
  11. Brush warm rolls with melted butter and roll in cinnamon sugar mixture before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding chopped nuts or raisins to the cinnamon sugar mixture. If you don't have Bisquick, you can substitute with a homemade blend of flour, baking powder, and salt. Letting the dough rest for a bit can enhance its texture. To make the rolls even richer, try using a flavored butter like cinnamon or honey.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delightful German Cinnamon Rolls warm for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of day. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea, making them perfect for a brunch spread. Consider serving alongside fresh fruit or a creamy spread like cream cheese to complement the sweetness, or enjoy them with a drizzle of icing for an indulgent touch.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave them for a few seconds until warm.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of German Cinnamon Rolls contains roughly 416 calories, with 10g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), protein (20% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1031mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).

416 kcal 21% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 9.9g 20% DV
Total Fat 30g 39% DV
Carbs 28.6g 10% DV
Fiber 6.2g 22% DV
Sugar 1.4g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1031.4mg 45% DV
Potassium 815.1mg 17% DV
Cholesterol 84.9mg 28% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin C 18.2mg 20% DV
Calcium 99mg 8% DV
Iron 2mg 11% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk

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 dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast in place of dry yeast. Instant yeast does not need to be dissolved in water beforehand, so you can mix it directly into the dry ingredients. Just reduce the warm water by a couple of tablespoons since instant yeast activates more quickly.

How can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

You can prepare the rolls up to the point of slicing them before baking. Place the sliced rolls in a greased pan, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure they rise nicely.

What can I add to the filling for more flavor?

You can enhance the filling by adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, or dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries. For a twist, consider incorporating a bit of orange or lemon zest for a citrusy note that complements the cinnamon beautifully.

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).

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