Cinnamon Rolls

Cinnamon Rolls Recipe - Authentic Haitian Cuisine

Region / culture: Haiti | Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 24

Introduction

Cinnamon rolls are a beloved sweet treat that are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. These soft and fluffy rolls are filled with a delicious cinnamon sugar mixture and topped with a sweet icing. They are a comforting and indulgent treat that is sure to please anyone who tries them.

History

Cinnamon rolls have been enjoyed for centuries, with origins dating back to Sweden. The Swedish version of cinnamon rolls, known as "kanelbullar," are a popular treat in the country and are often enjoyed with a cup of coffee. Over time, cinnamon rolls have become a beloved pastry in many countries around the world, with variations in ingredients and preparation methods.

Ingredients

3.5 – 4 cups of all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1 package of dry yeast
0.33 cup of melted butter
1 cup of milk
0.25 cup of sugar
3 tsp of cinnamon
0.25 cup of shortening
0.75 cup of raisins
1 tsp of salt

How to prepare

In a large mixer bowl, combine 2 cups of flour and yeast.
Heat milk, 0.25 cup of sugar, 0.25 cup of shortening, and salt in a saucepan until warm (115 – 120°F (49°C)), stirring to melt the shortening.
Add the heated mixture to the dry mixture and add eggs.
Beat at low speed with an electric mixer for 0.5 minute, scraping the bowl.
Beat for 3 minutes at high speed by hand, then stir in 1.5 to 2 cups of flour to make a moderately stiff dough.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth.
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, turning it once.
Cover the bowl and let the dough rise until doubled in size (45 to 60 minutes).
Punch down the dough and divide it in half. Cover and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Roll each half of the dough into a 12" x 8" rectangle.
Brush each rectangle with half of the melted butter.
Combine sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle the mixture over the dough.
Sprinkle with raisins, if desired.
Roll up each piece, starting with the long side, and seal the seams.
Slice each roll into 12 pieces.
Place the rolls, cut side down, in two greased 9" x 1.5" round baking pans.
Cover the pans and let the rolls rise until doubled in size (about 35 minutes).
Bake at 375°F (191°C) for 18 to 20 minutes.
Drizzle icing over the warm rolls.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the filling for added texture and flavor.
Swap out the raisins for chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
Drizzle the rolls with a cream cheese icing for a tangy and sweet topping.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to let the dough rise until doubled in size for the best texture and flavor.

- Use a sharp knife to slice the rolls for clean and even cuts.

- Brushing the dough with melted butter before adding the cinnamon sugar mixture helps to create a rich and flavorful filling.

- Don't overbake the rolls, as they can become dry. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

Cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed warm and fresh out of the oven. They pair well with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy and comforting treat.

Cooking Techniques

Kneading the dough until smooth helps to develop gluten and create a soft and fluffy texture.

- Rolling the dough tightly when shaping the rolls helps to create a uniform and neat appearance.

- Allowing the rolls to rise until doubled in size ensures a light and airy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use whole wheat flour in place of all-purpose flour for a healthier twist.

- Coconut oil can be used instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

- Maple syrup or honey can be used in place of sugar for a natural sweetener.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cinnamon rolls up to the point of slicing and placing them in the baking pans, then cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let the rolls come to room temperature and rise before baking as directed.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the cinnamon rolls on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of icing for an elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Cinnamon rolls pair well with a variety of beverages, such as coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or milk. They also go well with fresh fruit or a side of bacon or sausage for a balanced breakfast.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the rolls in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 5-10 minutes until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of cinnamon rolls contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of cinnamon rolls contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of cinnamon rolls contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of cinnamon rolls contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Cinnamon rolls are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Cinnamon rolls contain wheat, eggs, and dairy, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Cinnamon rolls are a delicious but indulgent treat that should be enjoyed in moderation due to their high calorie and fat content.

Summary

Cinnamon rolls are a classic and comforting treat that is perfect for any occasion. With a soft and fluffy texture, a sweet cinnamon sugar filling, and a decadent icing topping, these rolls are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert for a delicious and indulgent treat.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for cinnamon rolls. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small town. My love for baking had already begun to blossom, and I was always on the lookout for new and exciting recipes to try.

One day, while browsing through an old cookbook that belonged to my grandmother, I came across a recipe for cinnamon rolls. The picture in the book looked so delicious, with the swirls of cinnamon and sugar peeking out from the golden-brown dough. I knew I had to give it a try.

I followed the recipe carefully, mixing the dough, rolling it out, and spreading the cinnamon and sugar mixture on top. As I rolled up the dough and cut it into individual rolls, the sweet aroma of cinnamon filled the kitchen. I couldn't wait to taste the finished product.

When the cinnamon rolls came out of the oven, golden and gooey, I knew I had found a new favorite recipe. The warm, soft dough paired perfectly with the sweet and spicy filling, creating a treat that was truly irresistible. I couldn't wait to share it with my family and friends.

Over the years, I continued to make these cinnamon rolls, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my taste. Sometimes I would add a little extra cinnamon for a more intense flavor, or sprinkle chopped nuts on top for a crunchy texture. Each batch was a labor of love, and I took great pride in perfecting the recipe.

As I grew older, I began to experiment with different variations of the cinnamon rolls. I added cream cheese frosting on top for a decadent touch, or swapped out the cinnamon for other spices like cardamom or nutmeg. Each new twist on the classic recipe brought its own unique flavor profile, and I enjoyed trying them all.

One day, while visiting a friend in a neighboring town, I had the opportunity to taste a different version of cinnamon rolls. My friend's grandmother had a secret recipe that she had learned from her own grandmother, and she graciously shared it with me.

The secret to her cinnamon rolls was in the dough. She used a combination of butter and buttermilk to create a rich and tender base that melted in your mouth. The filling was a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and a hint of orange zest, adding a bright and citrusy flavor to the rolls.

I was inspired by this new take on the classic recipe, and I couldn't wait to recreate it in my own kitchen. I carefully studied the ingredients and techniques, making sure to follow the recipe to the letter. The result was a batch of cinnamon rolls that were unlike any I had ever tasted before.

The rich, buttery dough was the perfect canvas for the sweet and tangy filling, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that danced on my taste buds. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my baking repertoire, a timeless classic that would be passed down through generations.

As I continued to bake and share my beloved cinnamon rolls with friends and family, I realized that each recipe tells a story. Whether it's a cherished family heirloom or a new discovery, every recipe has a history and a legacy that lives on through the hands that create it.

And so, as I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that brought me to this moment, I am grateful for the joy that baking has brought into my life. The aroma of fresh cinnamon rolls wafting through the air, the warm embrace of a freshly baked treat, and the memories shared with loved ones – these are the treasures that make life sweet.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a little comfort or a taste of home, remember the simple pleasure of a freshly baked cinnamon roll. And know that behind every recipe lies a story, waiting to be told and shared with those you hold dear.