Maple Butter Cinnamon Rolls

Maple Butter Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, infused with the rich flavor of maple syrup and topped with a creamy maple butter glaze. Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat, these rolls are sure to impress your family and friends. With their soft, fluffy texture and irresistible aroma, you’ll find yourself making them over and over again. Follow this easy recipe to create your own batch of these delicious maple butter cinnamon rolls!

Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • ½ cup milk, warmed
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • ½ cup maple syrup
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup (for glaze)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warmed milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Add the melted butter, eggs, and salt to the mixture, stirring to combine.

Step 2: Mix in the Flour

Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.

Step 4: Add the Filling

Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle it over the buttered dough. Drizzle the maple syrup on top for an extra touch of sweetness.

Step 5: Roll and Cut

Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 6: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.

Step 7: Prepare the Maple Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and maple syrup until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls before serving.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser. You might want to use half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a lighter roll.

Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate them overnight. Just let them come to room temperature and rise for about 30 minutes before baking.

How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the filling?

Yes, feel free to add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling for extra flavor and texture!