Brown Butter Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Brown Butter Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is a delightful treat that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon with the rich, nutty essence of brown butter. These rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests. The unique browning process of the butter adds a depth of flavor that elevates this classic recipe into something truly special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor – The combination of brown butter and cinnamon creates a unique taste experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Perfectly Fluffy Texture – These rolls rise beautifully, resulting in a soft and pillowy texture that melts in your mouth.
• Versatile Treat – Great for breakfast, dessert, or as an afternoon snack, these rolls can be enjoyed any time of day.
• Customizable Options – Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips to personalize your rolls even more!
• Impressive Presentation – With their swirled design and creamy frosting, these rolls are not only delicious but also visually stunning.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Brown Butter Cinnamon Rolls Recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• 9×13 baking dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer – Makes mixing dough easy and ensures a consistent texture throughout.
• Mixing bowls – Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without making a mess.
• Rolling pin – Helps roll out the dough evenly for the perfect shape and thickness.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 8 ounces salted butter
• 1-2 tablespoons butter, cold or room temp
• 3 1/2 cups (480 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup whole milk, warmed to 100-110 degrees F
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup (2 ounces) brown butter, cooled to soft room temperature
• 1 large egg, room temp
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste

For the Filling

• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup (4 ounces) brown butter, cooled to soft room temperature

For the Frosting

• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
• 1 8-ounce brick of cream cheese, softened to room temp
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (2 ounces) brown butter, cooled to soft room temp

How to Make Brown Butter Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Brown Butter

Place two 4 ounce sticks of butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Watch closely as it melts. The butter will foam and sizzle before becoming quiet. This indicates it’s almost ready.
– Swirl the pan or use a spoon to push the foam away.
– When it turns light brown at the bottom and smells like toasted caramel, remove from heat.
– Pour into a heat-safe measuring cup or bowl to cool. Add a tablespoon or two of cold butter until you reach 1 cup (8 ounces). Stir occasionally as it cools.

Step 2: Mix Dough Ingredients

Prepare a 9×13 baking dish by generously greasing it or spraying with cooking spray. You may also line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
– Pour warmed milk into the bowl of your stand mixer along with brown sugar, yeast, egg, and vanilla. Whisk together and let sit for about 5 minutes.
– Add flour, 1/4 cup brown butter, and salt into the mixer bowl. Using your dough hook on low-medium speed, mix until combined.
– Increase speed to medium-high until you achieve a soft but not overly sticky dough. It should stick slightly to the bottom but be smooth.

Step 3: Let Dough Rise

Remove the dough hook and cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about an hour until doubled in size.

Step 4: Prepare Filling

In a small bowl, mix all filling ingredients using a spoon or silicone spatula until thoroughly combined.

Step 5: Make Frosting

In another medium bowl, combine all frosting ingredients using a hand mixer until fluffy—about 3-4 minutes on medium speed.

Step 6: Shape Rolls

Once dough has risen:
– Dump it onto your work surface and roll into a roughly 9×13 inch rectangle.
– Spread filling evenly over the dough’s surface up to the edges.
– Starting from one end (the closest side), roll tightly away from you while keeping it taut across.
– Pinch along seam to seal. Cut into halves then each half into six equal pieces—yielding twelve pieces total.

Place pieces evenly in prepared dish; cover with plastic wrap or towel again and let rise in warm spot until doubled (about one hour). Preheat oven to 350°F during last twenty minutes of rising time.

Bake for 25-30 minutes until puffed and golden brown. Let cool for about five minutes before frosting generously!

How to Serve Brown Butter Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Brown butter cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls are sure to impress your guests and family alike.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pairing your cinnamon rolls with a hot cup of coffee enhances the flavors and provides a comforting start to your day.

Drizzled with Extra Frosting

• For those who love sweetness, adding a little extra frosting on top makes for a decadent treat.

Served Warm with Fresh Fruit

• Accompany the rolls with fresh berries or slices of apple for a refreshing contrast to the rich, buttery flavor.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Include these rolls in your brunch buffet alongside eggs, salads, and other pastries for a well-rounded meal.

Packaged as Gifts

• Wrap individual rolls in parchment paper and tie them with twine for thoughtful gifts that showcase your baking skills.

How to Perfect Brown Butter Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Making perfect brown butter cinnamon rolls requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best results every time.

• Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is active by checking its expiration date. Fresh yeast guarantees a better rise and fluffier rolls.

• Monitor Butter Temperature: Let brown butter cool before mixing it into the dough. This helps prevent cooking the egg when added to the mixture.

• Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth but not overly sticky. This provides structure and ensures even texture in your rolls.

• Let Dough Rise Fully: Allow the dough ample time to rise until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for achieving fluffy cinnamon rolls.

• Roll Tightly: When rolling the dough, keep it tight but not overly compressed. A tight roll creates swirl patterns while ensuring even filling distribution.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Brown butter cinnamon rolls can be complemented by several side dishes that balance their richness. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and lightness to counterbalance the sweet rolls.

2. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Layer Greek yogurt with granola and honey for a tangy side dish that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the rolls.

3. Savory Quiche
   A slice of quiche filled with vegetables or cheese offers a savory balance and makes for a hearty brunch option.

4. Scrambled Eggs
   Soft scrambled eggs provide protein and creaminess that complements the sweet flavors of cinnamon rolls.

5. Avocado Toast
   The creamy texture of avocado toast adds healthy fats and enhances your brunch spread’s overall appeal.

6. Herbed Cheese Platter
   Offer an array of herbed cheeses alongside crusty bread or crackers for guests who enjoy savory bites with their sweets.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Brown Butter Cinnamon Rolls can be simple, but small mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold milk or eggs can hinder yeast activation. Always warm your milk and let your eggs come to room temperature for the best rise.
• Overmixing the dough: Overworking the dough can lead to tough rolls. Mix until just combined and smooth, then let it rest.
• Skipping the first rise: Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for fluffy rolls. Don’t rush this step; give it a full hour in a warm spot.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use a scale or proper measuring cups for precise amounts, especially flour, which can vary greatly.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can lead to unevenly cooked rolls. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Brown Butter Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for about 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Brown Butter Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

• Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Brown Butter Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place rolls on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds. This method may soften the texture slightly.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a skillet with a lid over low heat for about 5-7 minutes, adding a splash of water to create steam.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to make brown butter?

Brown butter is made by melting butter over medium heat until it foams, then continues cooking until it turns light brown and has a nutty aroma. Watch it closely to avoid burning.

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

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may result in denser rolls. For best results, try using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.

Can I make this Brown Butter Cinnamon Rolls Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling the night before. Assemble the rolls, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight before baking.

How do I customize my Brown Butter Cinnamon Rolls Recipe?

Feel free to add nuts, raisins, or different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for unique flavors. You can also experiment with different frostings!

How long do these cinnamon rolls last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they last about 3-5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months when frozen.

Final Thoughts

This Brown Butter Cinnamon Rolls Recipe offers a delightful combination of rich flavors and soft textures that make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize your rolls with various fillings or toppings. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or reheated later, these cinnamon rolls are sure to impress!