Introduction
The holiday season is a time of joy, warmth, and tradition, often marked by the delightful scents of baked goods wafting through homes. Among all the seasonal treats, few can match the heartwarming allure of fresh cinnamon rolls. Imagine waking up on Christmas morning to the sweet aroma of cinnamon and eggnog enveloping your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table. Christmas Morning Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls are not just a treat; they are an experience that brings family and friends together, creating cherished memories over shared bites of buttery, spiced goodness.
The combination of eggnog—a festive staple loaded with rich flavors—and cinnamon, known for its sweet warmth, makes these rolls an ideal choice for any Christmas morning celebration. With a soft, pillowy texture and a sweet glaze that ties it all together, every bite embodies the spirit of the holidays. These rolls serve as the perfect centerpiece for a festive breakfast or brunch, inviting everyone to slice off a piece and indulge in the season’s magic.
Recipe Overview
– Total Time: 2 hours
– Yield/Servings: 12 rolls
– Difficulty: Not specified in the recipe
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
Filling Ingredients
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
Glaze Ingredients
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2-3 tbsp eggnog (for glaze)
– Optional: additional ground nutmeg for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, salt, and ground nutmeg. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well combined. Taking this step ensures that the yeast is evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture, allowing for uniform rising of the dough.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the eggnog, milk, melted unsalted butter, and eggs. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. It is crucial to combine the wet ingredients well, as this will help create a cohesive dough later.
3. Gradually incorporate the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft, cohesive dough begins to form. By adding the wet ingredients slowly, you allow the flour to absorb the moisture evenly without creating lumps.
4. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic to the touch. Kneading develops gluten, which helps give the rolls structure and a delightful chewiness.
5. Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and allow it to rise in a warm location for approximately 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. This rising period is essential as it expands the dough, making it light and airy.
6. While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by mixing the packed brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This preparation ensures that the filling is ready to be spread on the rolled-out dough, enhancing the overall flavor of the cinnamon rolls.
7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, approximately 16×12 inches in size. The dimensions ensure each roll is adequately sized and uniformly baked.
8. Evenly spread the softened butter over the surface of the rolled-out dough, then generously sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top. The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a delicious filling that will melt into the rolls as they bake.
9. Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log shape. Pinch the seam to seal the roll securely, preventing the filling from spilling out during baking. This rolling technique is vital for achieving those iconic swirl patterns that make cinnamon rolls so appealing.
10. Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces and arrange them in a greased baking dish, ensuring there is some space between each roll for expansion. This spacing allows the rolls to rise and bake evenly, resulting in a perfect texture.
11. Cover the baking dish with a towel and allow the rolls to rise again for an additional 30 minutes. This second rise enhances the fluffiness of the cinnamon rolls, making them incredibly soft when baked.
12. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) during the last stages of the second rise. Preheating is a crucial step to ensure that the rolls start baking right away, helping to achieve a golden-brown finish.
13. Bake the cinnamon rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed. Keeping a close eye during baking allows you to catch that perfect moment when they have reached their optimal doneness.
14. While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and eggnog until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This simple yet delectable glaze will add an irresistible sweetness to the warm rolls.
15. Once the rolls are out of the oven, allow them to cool for a few minutes before drizzling the glaze generously over the top. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle with additional ground nutmeg if desired, enhancing the holiday flavor profile.
16. Serve these delightful rolls warm and savor the festive flavors that embody the spirit of Christmas morning! The soft, sweet rolls paired with the creamy glaze are sure to delight everyone at your holiday gathering.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Mixing the dry ingredients correctly is essential for the success of your Christmas Morning Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls. The flour, sugar, instant yeast, salt, and ground nutmeg must be thoroughly whisked together to ensure an even distribution. This step is crucial as it not only helps in achieving the right texture but also allows the yeast to work its magic during the rising process.
Combining Wet Ingredients
Properly mixing the wet ingredients is equally important in this recipe. The combination of eggnog, milk, melted unsalted butter, and eggs should be whisked until they are smooth and homogenous. This smooth mixture ensures that there are no lumps, allowing for uniform incorporation into the dry ingredients. The fat in the butter and eggnog will add moisture, richness, and that festive flavor, making the rolls indulgently tasty.
Forming the Dough
The process of integrating the wet and dry ingredients is crucial in forming a cohesive dough for the Christmas Morning Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls. Start by gradually adding the wet mixture of eggnog, milk, melted butter, and eggs to the dry ingredients, whisking gently as you pour. This method allows for better incorporation of the ingredients without creating a lumpy dough. If the mixture feels too sticky, dust lightly with additional flour a tablespoon at a time, being careful not to overdo it, as this can alter the texture of the rolls. The goal is to achieve a soft and pliable dough that barely sticks to your hands.
Kneading the Dough
Kneading the dough serves to develop gluten, which is vital for the texture of your cinnamon rolls. To knead effectively, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and push it down and away from you using the heel of your hand. Fold it over, give it a quarter turn, and repeat the process. This method not only helps to create a smooth texture but also works in air, contributing to the rolls’ fluffy quality. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough feels elastic and springs back when gently pressed.
First Rise
The first rise is a critical step in letting the dough develop flavor and volume. Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, ensuring that it is fully coated to prevent drying out. Covering the bowl with a clean kitchen towel creates a warm environment that facilitates the yeast’s activity. If your kitchen is cool, you can create a warm area by turning on the oven for a few minutes, then turning it off and placing the dough inside. Allow the dough to rise for about one hour or until it has roughly doubled in size.
Duration and Environment
The timing of the first rise is approximately 1 hour. The ideal warm location should be draft-free—kitchens near an oven or any area where sunlight hits can work beautifully. An oven that has been preheated for a few minutes and turned off can also serve as an effective proving chamber.
Preparing the Filling
Preparing the filling is simple yet essential for delivering the signature cinnamon flavor. In a small bowl, combine the packed brown sugar and ground cinnamon thoroughly. This mixture will create the delicious sweet and spicy core of the rolls. Mixing until evenly combined ensures that each bite has just the right balance of flavors.
Rolling and Shaping the Dough
Once the dough has risen, it’s time to roll it out and add the filling. Start by punching down the dough gently to release any excess air. Lightly flour your surface and roll out the dough into a rectangle approximately 16×12 inches. The dough should be about 1/4 inch thick; too thick may result in undercooked rolls, while too thin can lead to tears.
Creating Roll Shapes
Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log shape. It’s important to keep a uniform tightness while rolling. Before sealing the seam at the end of the roll, brush a tiny bit of water or additional melted butter along the seam; this will help the roll stay intact. Pinch the seam tightly to seal it, which reduces the chances of the filling leaking during baking.
Second Rise
For the second rise, cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for a clean edge. Arrange the pieces in a greased baking dish, leaving space between each roll to allow for expansion. Cover this dish with a towel again and leave it to rise for approximately 30 minutes. This step is significant as it further enhances the fluffiness of the rolls.
Time and Temperature
As for the timing, the second rise is brief, merely requiring about 30 minutes. Ensuring the space is warm and draft-free remains important. Look for the rolls to puff up slightly, indicating they are ready for baking.
Baking the Rolls
When it comes to baking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) towards the end of the second rise. This way, your oven is at the perfect temperature when you’re ready to bake. Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes. The desired outcome is a golden-brown color on top, signaling that they are fully cooked.
Signs of Doneness
To know if the rolls are baked to perfection, look for a beautiful golden color on top, and lightly tap the rolls; they should sound hollow. You can also check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer, which should read about 190°F (88°C) when done.
Preparing the Glaze
While the rolls are cooling slightly, it’s time to prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and eggnog until fully combined. The goal is to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. If the glaze feels too thick, additional eggnog can be added a teaspoon at a time until the desired drizzling consistency is reached.
Drizzling the Glaze
The final touch is drizzling the glaze over the warm rolls. Use a spoon or a small whisk to create an even drizzle, letting it cascade over the sides for an appealing finish. For extra flair, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of ground nutmeg or even some edible glitter for a festive touch.
Optional Garnish
For an impressive presentation, additional garnishes can include not just a sprinkle of ground nutmeg, but also a dusting of powdered sugar for a snowy effect, or placing a few cinnamon sticks nearby to enhance the holiday theme.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful cinnamon rolls shine when served warm. Pair them with a warm beverage like hot cocoa or coffee to complement their flavors. A plate of fresh fruit on the side can also lighten the meal and adds a refreshing contrast.
Presentation Tips
Arranging the rolls on a festive platter instantly elevates their appeal. Place them on a decorative dish, and consider adding seasonal candles or a small vase of winter greens to enhance the holiday spirit. A light dusting of powdered sugar can make them appear as if they were gently topped with fresh snow, perfect for a Christmas morning breakfast.
This combination of flavors and textures—from the fluffy, tender roll to the sweet glaze—offers a delightful indulgence that will surely enhance any holiday gathering.
Christmas Morning Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet instant yeast 2 ¼ tsp
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ cup eggnog
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter softened (for filling)
- 1 cup powdered sugar for glaze
- 2-3 tbsp eggnog for glaze
- additional ground nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
- Combine flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and nutmeg in a bowl.
- Mix eggnog, milk, melted butter, and eggs in another bowl.
- Incorporate wet mixture into dry ingredients to form dough.
- Knead dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Let dough rise in a greased bowl for 1 hour until doubled.
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon for filling.
- Roll out dough into a rectangle and spread softened butter.
- Sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture over buttered dough.
- Roll dough tightly and cut into 12 pieces.
- Let rolls rise for 30 minutes in a baking dish.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare glaze by mixing powdered sugar and eggnog.
- Drizzle glaze over warm rolls and garnish with nutmeg.