How to Make Cinnamon Buns from Scratch
Cinnamon buns are a classic dessert that has been a staple in many bakeries and households for centuries. These sweet, sticky, and aromatic treats are a perfect combination of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making cinnamon buns from scratch, including the ingredients, steps, and tips to ensure that your buns turn out perfectly.
Ingredients
Before we begin, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make cinnamon buns from scratch:
- 2 cups of warm milk (around 105°F to 115°F)
- 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
- 3 tablespoons of sugar
- 4 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves
- 1/2 cup of cinnamon sugar (a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon)
- Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
To start making cinnamon buns from scratch, you’ll need to activate the yeast in the warm milk. Here’s how:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Stir gently to dissolve the yeast, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly.
- Make sure the yeast is activated before proceeding.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Now it’s time to mix the dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the melted butter, eggs, and yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix the dough until it comes together in a sticky ball.
- Use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to mix the dough.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Kneading the dough is an important step in making cinnamon buns from scratch. You’ll need to knead the dough for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Use a dough scraper to scrape the dough off the counter and onto the floured surface.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Let the dough rise until it has doubled in size.
Step 5: Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, let’s prepare the filling. In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Mix the filling until it’s well combined.
- Use a small bowl to mix the filling.
Step 6: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
- Use a rolling pin to roll out the dough.
Step 7: Spread the Filling
Spread the filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Use a spatula to spread the filling.
Step 8: Roll the Buns
Roll the dough into a tight log, starting from the long side. Cut the log into 12-15 equal pieces.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the dough.
Step 9: Let the Buns Rise
Let the buns rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up slightly.
- Let the buns rise until they have puffed up slightly.
Step 10: Bake the Buns
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each bun.
- Use a baking sheet to bake the buns.
Step 11: Brush with Egg Wash
Brush the tops of the buns with an egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water).
- Use a pastry brush to brush the tops of the buns.
Step 12: Sprinkle with Cinnamon Sugar
Sprinkle the buns with the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Use a small bowl to sprinkle the cinnamon sugar.
Step 13: Bake the Buns
Bake the buns for 18-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown.
- Use a baking sheet to bake the buns.
Step 14: Let the Buns Cool
Let the buns cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before serving.
- Let the buns cool before serving.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you make the best cinnamon buns from scratch:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will affect the flavor and texture of your buns. Use fresh yeast, real butter, and high-quality cinnamon for the best results.
- Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough, dense buns. Mix the dough just until it comes together in a sticky ball.
- Let the dough rise long enough: Letting the dough rise long enough will help the buns develop a good flavor and texture.
- Use a combination of white and brown sugar: Using a combination of white and brown sugar will give your buns a richer, more complex flavor.
- Add a pinch of salt: A pinch of salt will balance out the sweetness of the buns and enhance the flavor.
Conclusion
Making cinnamon buns from scratch is a rewarding process that requires patience, persistence, and a little bit of practice. With these steps and tips, you’ll be able to create delicious, sticky, and aromatic cinnamon buns that will impress your family and friends. Remember to use high-quality ingredients, let the dough rise long enough, and don’t overmix the dough. Happy baking!