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Aunt Joan's Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

A treasured family recipe passed down through generations, Aunt Joan's Cinnamon Rolls are the stuff of legends! Since the 1960s, this recipe has been creating melt-in-your-mouth, incredibly delicious cinnamon rolls (or are they sticky buns?). While the measurements are a little loose – reflecting Aunt Joan's years of baking expertise – the result is pure magic. Perfect for holidays or any special occasion, this recipe makes enough for two 9x12 inch pans (approximately 24 rolls). Get ready to impress your family and friends with this heartwarming classic!

Prep Time 90 mins
Cook Time 270 mins
Calories 238.6 kcal
Protein 9g
Rating 4.3 (3 Reviews)
Aunt Joan's Cinnamon Rolls 96

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Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Aunt Joan's Cinnamon Rolls

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How to Make Aunt Joan's Cinnamon Rolls

  1. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F), 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast, and 1 large egg. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted, and 1 teaspoon salt to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
  3. Gradually add 6 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, adding additional flour as needed until the dough is smooth and elastic. (You may need up to 7 cups total).
  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place (around 75-80°F) for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. (For faster rising, you can place the bowl in a warm oven (turned off with the door slightly ajar).
  6. Meanwhile, prepare the filling: In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon.
  7. Roll out the risen dough into a large rectangle (approximately 18x24 inches).
  8. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
  9. Tightly roll the dough from the long side into a log.
  10. Cut the log into 12 (24 total for both pans) equal slices.
  11. Place the rolls in two greased 9x12 inch baking pans.
  12. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled.
  13. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  14. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  15. While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing (recipe not included in original but you may use your favorite icing recipe or a simple cream cheese frosting).

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

6 g

Sugar

67g

Fat

4g

Carbs

15g

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Time To Make Course Preparation Occasion Breads Snacks Heirloom Historical Rolls Biscuits Dietary From Scratch