Pink Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Pink cinnamon rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon rolls, featuring a soft, fluffy dough, swirls of sweet cinnamon filling, and a beautiful pink glaze that makes them a perfect treat for special occasions or whenever you’re craving something fun and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Eye-catching and festive with their lovely pink hue.
• Soft, pillowy texture with a sweet cinnamon flavor.
• Easy to make at home with simple ingredients.
• Perfect for brunch, parties, or as a sweet dessert.
• Can be customized with various toppings or fillings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Active dry yeast
• Milk
• Sugar
• Butter
• Egg
• Ground cinnamon
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Pink food coloring

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
2. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
3. Make the Filling: Mix cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl.
4. Roll Out and Fill: Roll out the dough into a rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
5. Shape the Rolls: Roll up the dough tightly from the long side, then slice into even pieces. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish.
6. Second Rise: Cover and let the rolls rise again for 30-45 minutes.
7. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Make the Pink Glaze: Combine powdered sugar, vanilla extract, a splash of milk, and a few drops of pink food coloring. Mix until smooth.
9. Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the pink glaze over the warm rolls and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 12 rolls
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Rise Time: 1.5-2.5 hours
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: About 3 hours

Variations

• Flavorful Fillings: Add chopped nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips to the cinnamon filling for added texture and taste.
• Glaze Options: Experiment with cream cheese frosting or a fruit-flavored glaze.
• Dough Colors: Use food coloring in the dough itself for a fully pink roll.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Warm the rolls in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Skip the step of dissolving it in milk and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

2. How can I make these rolls vegan?

Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and an egg substitute like flaxseed or applesauce.

3. Can I freeze the rolls?

Yes, freeze unbaked rolls after shaping or baked rolls without glaze. Thaw and bake or reheat as needed.

4. Can I make the dough the night before?

Absolutely. Let the shaped rolls rise overnight in the refrigerator, then bake in the morning.

5. What type of food coloring should I use?

Gel food coloring works best for a vibrant pink hue without altering the glaze’s consistency.

6. Can I use a stand mixer for the dough?

Yes, a stand mixer with a dough hook can make kneading easier and quicker.

7. What’s the best way to ensure even baking?

Place the baking dish in the center of the oven and rotate it halfway through baking.

8. Can I make these gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for yeast baking and follow the recipe as directed.

9. Can I add a cream cheese glaze?

Yes, replace the pink glaze with a simple cream cheese frosting for a tangy topping.

10. How do I prevent the rolls from drying out?

Cover the rolls with foil during baking if they brown too quickly, and avoid overbaking.

Conclusion

Pink cinnamon rolls are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Whether for a festive brunch or a sweet pick-me-up, these rolls will leave everyone impressed. With a little effort and simple ingredients, you can create a bakery-quality delight right at home. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the magic of pink cinnamon rolls!

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