Activating the Yeast: In a bowl, combine your warm milk, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and the active dry yeast. Stir and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it’s frothy.
Preparing the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, blend together the melted butter, remaining sugar, and salt. Beat in the eggs one at a time. Now, gradually add in the flour and yeast mixture. Keep mixing until a soft dough forms.
Kneading Time: Sprinkle some flour on a clean countertop and knead your dough for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Place your dough in a greased bowl, covering it with a damp cloth. Let it rest in a warm area for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Prepping the Filling: Mix together your brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and softened butter. This sweet mixture will give your Cinnamon Rolls that signature flavor!
Roll and Fill: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread your filling evenly across the dough.
Roll and Slice: Start rolling your dough tightly from one end to the other. Once rolled, slice it into 12 even pieces.
Second Rise: Arrange your Cinnamon Rolls in a greased baking dish and cover them again. Let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake Time: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake your Cinnamon Rolls for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Glaze Over: While your Cinnamon Rolls are cooling slightly, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk to make a glaze. Drizzle this over your warm Cinnamon Rolls.