Cinnamon Rolls

Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl combine...

• 1/2 cup hot water
• 2 1/4 tsp dry yeast (instant or active)

Let yeast sit for a few minutes to dissolve. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan over medium heat add...

• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup butter

Heat milk until sugar and butter are melted and dissolved. Don't let the milk boil.

Add milk mixture to the mixing bowl and combine with...

• 3 1/2 cups flour, plus more as needed

Add the flour gradually, half a cup at a time, until the dough becomes workable and firm.

When dough is stiff and easy to handle, turn onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Note: If using an electric mixer, you can alternatively add the dough hook attachment for kneading

Place dough into a greased bowl, then cover and let rise for a 1 to 1 1/2 hours.

Filling & Baking the Rolls

Pre-heat oven to 350º F

When dough has doubled in size, turn it onto a lightly floured surface again and roll into a large 15x9 inch rectangle.

In a medium bowl mix together with a fork until a crumbly mixture forms...

• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 2 tbsp cinnamon
• 3/4 cup sugar

Note: While you could pour melted butter (which leaks) or spread softened butter then sprinkle cinnamon-sugar (which falls off), I've found the best method is to mix the softened butter and cinnamon-sugar together beforehand.

Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the rectangle. Then sprinkle on...

• 3/4 cup raisins, walnuts, or pecans (optional)

Roll the dough up lengthwise and pinch the edge together to seal.

Use a sharp knife to cut the roll into 12-15 one inch slices.

Arrange the rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, then cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.

Bake for about 30 minutes until golden brown.

Glaze & Serve

In a medium bowl, combine...

• 4 tbsp butter, melted
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Add  water or milk 1 tbsp at a time until glaze reaches a thick but pourable consistency (about 3-4 tbsp total).

Spread glaze over the cinnamon rolls immediately after they come out of the oven.

Let rolls cool slightly, then serve and enjoy!

Note: If you want to achieve the striped effect of the glaze seen in the photo, let the cinnamon rolls cool completely after the initial glazing, then add another layer on in a striated pattern.