Description

Paul Hollywood’s Cinnamon Rolls are a classic sweet roll made from a yeasted dough filled with cinnamon sugar and topped with a smooth glaze. These rolls are known for their soft, pillowy texture, which comes from letting the dough rise twice. The cinnamon-sugar filling is rich and fragrant, making these rolls irresistible.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough

500g strong white bread flour – Gives structure to the rolls.
1 tsp salt – Enhances the flavor.
50g caster sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough.
10g instant yeast – Helps the dough rise.
300ml whole milk (lukewarm) – Keeps the dough soft and tender.
1 large egg – Adds richness and helps bind the dough.
50g unsalted butter (softened) – Adds flavor and moisture to the dough.

For the Cinnamon Filling

100g unsalted butter (softened) – Makes the filling rich and spreadable.
100g light brown sugar – Adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
2 tbsp ground cinnamon – Provides a warm, spiced flavor.

For the Glaze

150g icing sugar – Sweetens and thickens the glaze.
2–3 tbsp milk or water – Adjust the consistency of the glaze.
½ tsp vanilla extract – Adds a hint of flavor to the glaze.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and caster sugar. Add the yeast to one side of the bowl and the salt to the other side (keeping them separate prevents the salt from deactivating the yeast).

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the lukewarm milk, egg, and softened butter to the bowl. Using an electric mixer with a dough hook or by hand, knead the mixture for 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand, dust with a little extra flour if needed.

Step 3: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, light brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has doubled in size, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a large rectangle, approximately 40x30cm (16×12 inches) in size.

Step 6: Spread the Filling

Using a spatula, spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Step 7: Roll and Cut the Dough

Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 equal pieces.

Step 8: Arrange in Baking Dish and Second Rise

Place the rolls cut side up in a greased or parchment-lined baking dish. Cover with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until they are puffy and touching each other.

Step 9: Preheat the Oven

While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).

Step 10: Bake the Cinnamon Rolls

Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.

Step 11: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix the icing sugar, milk (or water), and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency as needed by adding more milk or icing sugar.

Step 12: Glaze the Rolls

Drizzle the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls and spread it with a spatula if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!