The aroma of warm spices fills the air, wrapping around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly Christmas Eve. Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy roll bursting with sweet cinnamon goodness, a sprinkle of sugar on top, and perhaps just a hint of nutmeg—a treat that’s as comforting as your favorite holiday sweater. cozy sweet potato hash.
Growing up, Christmas Eve meant gathering around the table with family, the scent of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the house. It was our delicious little tradition that kicked off the festivities. turkey sliders with cranberry aioli Each bite was a sweet reminder of holidays past and the joy of being together. juicy spatchcock turkey recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Christmas Eve Cinnamon rolls are easy to make, ensuring everyone can join in on the fun
- The blend of spices creates an irresistible flavor that will have your taste buds dancing
- Their golden-brown appearance makes them visually appealing for any holiday gathering
- Perfect for breakfast or dessert, these rolls are versatile enough to be enjoyed anytime!
Every year, my friends and family gather around to devour these delightful treats, and let me tell you—there’s never a crumb left behind! For more inspiration, check out this Delightful Lemon Lavender Cookies recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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All-Purpose Flour: A versatile staple; it gives the rolls their structure and chewiness.
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Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough and enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Active Dry Yeast: Helps the dough rise beautifully; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
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Milk: Warm milk adds moisture and richness to keep your rolls soft.
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Butter: Use unsalted for better control over saltiness; it adds richness and flavor.
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Cinnamon: The star of our show! Use fresh ground cinnamon for maximum aroma and taste.
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Nuts (optional): Chopped pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch if you’re feeling adventurous!
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Powdered Sugar (for icing): Lightly sweetened icing brings everything together; who doesn’t love a bit of drizzle?
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. cheesy stuffed flank steak.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Dough: Start by warming 1 cup of milk until it’s just lukewarm. Combine it with 2 tablespoons of sugar in a mixing bowl along with 1 packet of active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
Add Flour and Butter: Gradually mix in 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/4 cup melted butter into your yeast mixture. Stir until combined; your dough should start coming together nicely.
Knead Away!: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. You know it’s ready when it bounces back when poked!
Let It Rise: Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size—perfect time to catch up on some holiday tunes!
Roll Out & Fill: After rising, punch down your dough gently. Roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread softened butter generously over it, then sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts if using.
Shape & Slice**: Starting from one long side, roll up tightly into a log. Slice into even pieces about an inch thick and arrange them in a greased baking dish.
Bake to Perfection**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake those beauties for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. The smell will be heavenly!
These Christmas Eve Cinnamon rolls are not just food; they’re memories wrapped in dough! Enjoy them fresh from the oven or save some for later—they’re good no matter how you serve them! For more inspiration, check out this Irresistible Lemon Cheesecake Squares recipe.
You Must Know
- Christmas Eve Cinnamon brings warmth and joy to your holiday gatherings
- Perfect for filling your home with delightful aromas, this recipe is a must-try
- The blend of spices creates a cozy vibe, making it the ideal treat for sharing with loved ones
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Mix the cinnamon and sugar while your dough rises for efficient preparation.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in nutmeg or add chopped nuts for extra texture. A touch of vanilla can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to revive that fresh-baked aroma.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect results, always use fresh cinnamon for maximum flavor
- Don’t skip letting the dough rise fully, as this creates a fluffy texture
- Keep an eye on baking time to avoid over-baking and dryness
Sharing my first attempt at Christmas Eve Cinnamon brings back a wave of laughter, as it turned into a flour explosion—my kitchen looked like Santa’s workshop gone rogue!
FAQ
What can I substitute for butter in Christmas Eve Cinnamon?
You can use coconut oil or applesauce as an alternative for a lighter version.
Can I freeze Christmas Eve Cinnamon dough?
Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to two months before baking.
How can I enhance the flavor of my Christmas Eve Cinnamon?
Adding vanilla extract or orange zest can deepen the flavor profile significantly.
Delicious Christmas Eve Cinnamon Rolls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 12 rolls 1x
Description
Celebrate the warmth of the holiday season with these irresistible Christmas Eve Cinnamon Rolls. Bursting with sweet cinnamon flavor and topped with a light drizzle of icing, these fluffy rolls are perfect for sharing with loved ones. Easy to make and utterly delightful, they will fill your home with the comforting aroma of freshly baked goodness. Enjoy them for breakfast or as a festive dessert, making every gathering feel special.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ cup brown sugar
- Optional: Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
- For icing: 1 cup powdered sugar + 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add flour and melted butter to the yeast mixture, stirring until combined.
- Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Roll out dough into a rectangle; spread softened butter, then sprinkle brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts if using.
- Roll tightly into a log, slice into one-inch pieces, and arrange in a greased baking dish.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (70g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
