Quick Overview
If you are searching for a sweet treat that combines soft dough with the rich flavors of caramel, then look no further than Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls. These delightful rolls are not just a regular breakfast item; they can elevate your dessert game too. The gooey dulce de leche filling paired with the warm cinnamon flavor creates an irresistible combination that you won’t want to miss. They’re easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredient Breakdown
Flour
For this recipe, you will need 4 cups of all-purpose flour. This acts as the base for your dough, providing structure and ensuring your cinnamon rolls rise beautifully.
Yeast
One packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) of active dry yeast is essential. It helps the dough rise by producing carbon dioxide when activated with warm water and sugar.
Milk
You’ll need 1 cup of whole milk. Warm milk helps activate the yeast while adding moisture to the dough, resulting in soft and fluffy rolls.
Sugar
Use ½ cup of granulated sugar. This sweetener enhances the flavor of the dough while also feeding the yeast to promote rising.
Butter
You will require ½ cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter. Softened butter adds richness and flavor to both the dough and filling.
Eggs
Two large eggs are necessary for this recipe. They act as binding agents to hold all ingredients together while adding moisture.
Ground Cinnamon
Use 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon for flavoring. This spice gives your rolls that classic cinnamon roll taste we all love.
Dulce De Leche
You will need approximately 1 cup of dulce de leche. This rich caramel sauce serves as a delicious filling that makes these rolls stand out.
Cream Cheese
For frosting, use 4 ounces of cream cheese at room temperature. Cream cheese creates a tangy balance against the sweetness of the rolls.
Powdered Sugar
Add 2 cups of powdered sugar for sweetness in your frosting. This ingredient provides a smooth texture that complements the cream cheese perfectly.
Step By Step Recipe: Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls
Step One: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over it and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy. In another bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and eggs until combined. Gradually stir in melted butter followed by the yeast mixture until a sticky dough forms.
Step Two: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in additional flour gradually while kneading. Once ready, place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about an hour or until doubled in size.
Step Three: Roll Out the Dough
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air bubbles. On a floured surface, roll it out into a rectangle measuring approximately 16×12 inches. Aim for an even thickness throughout to ensure uniform cooking later on.
Step Four: Add Filling
Spread one cup of dulce de leche evenly over the rolled-out dough using an offset spatula or spoon. Make sure every corner is covered well to maximize flavor in every bite. Then sprinkle evenly with ground cinnamon across that layer of dulce de leche for extra spice.
Step Five: Roll Up
Starting from one long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape without pinching too hard; this keeps air pockets intact which makes your rolls fluffy later on! Once rolled up completely, pinch edges to seal them properly before moving on to cut them into pieces.
Step Six: Cut Into Rolls
Using a sharp knife or dental floss (unflavored), slice your log into approximately 12 equal pieces about an inch thick each. Be gentle but firm during this process so that you don’t squish out all that lovely filling!
Step Seven: Second Rise
Place each piece cut-side up into greased baking pan(s). Allow them space between each other as they’ll expand during baking! Cover again with a towel letting them rise more for about another 30 minutes until puffy again – this step adds fluffiness!
Step Eight: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for around 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top; they should feel light when lifted from their pan(s). Keep an eye on them after about 20 minutes if you notice browning too quickly!
Step Nine: Frosting Preparation
While waiting on those deliciously baked rolls cool slightly beforehand prepare frosting by combining softened cream cheese & powdered sugar together in another bowl—mix thoroughly until creamy & spreadable consistency achieved without lumps showing!
Step Ten: Frost Your Rolls
Once cooled down enough but still warm enough so frosting melts slightly into crevices within each roll—spread generously over top! Don’t hesitate here; more is always better when it comes down to sweetness!
Serving and Storing Tips
Serving Suggestions
These scrumptious Dulce de Leche Cinnamon Rolls can be served fresh out of the oven or at room temperature! For breakfast or brunch gatherings pair them with coffee or tea for delightful contrasts; they also work well as dessert after dinner—everyone will love them!
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them airtight at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days max! Reheat individual portions briefly in microwave before enjoying again—this brings back some freshness making them just as tantalizing!
Now you’re ready to make these amazing Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls! Enjoy creating delicious memories with each roll you bake!
Mistakes to avoid
One common mistake when making Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls is not allowing the dough to rise properly. Ensuring that your dough has enough time to rise is crucial for achieving a light and fluffy texture. If you rush this step, your rolls may turn out dense and tough. Always follow the recommended rising times in the recipe.
Another frequent error is using cold ingredients. For optimal results, ensure that your butter, milk, and eggs are at room temperature before mixing them into the dough. Cold ingredients can prevent proper blending, leading to uneven texture and flavor in your Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls.
Overfilling the rolls with dulce de leche can also be problematic. While it’s tempting to add more filling for extra sweetness, too much can cause the rolls to overflow during baking. This not only makes a mess but can also result in uneven cooking. Use a moderate amount of filling for best results.
Neglecting to preheat your oven is another mistake that can ruin your cinnamon rolls. Baking at the correct temperature is essential for achieving that perfect golden-brown color and fluffy texture. Always preheat your oven before placing the rolls inside to ensure even baking.
Lastly, cutting the rolls unevenly can lead to inconsistent baking times. If some rolls are larger than others, they will cook at different rates, resulting in some being overcooked while others remain doughy. Use a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts and uniform sizes.
Tips and tricks
To achieve perfect Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls, start by measuring your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help you get precise quantities, ensuring consistency every time you bake. Baking is a science; small variations in measurements can significantly affect the final product.
When preparing the dough, knead it until smooth but not overly so. Kneading develops gluten, which gives structure to your rolls. However, excessive kneading can make them tough instead of soft and tender. Aim for a soft, elastic dough that springs back when lightly pressed.
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding spices like nutmeg or cardamom to your cinnamon mixture. These spices complement the sweetness of dulce de leche beautifully and create a more complex flavor profile in your rolls.
After baking, let the rolls cool slightly before drizzling on any icing or glaze. This allows the dulce de leche filling to set slightly while keeping the rolls warm and gooey inside. A warm roll with melted glaze creates an irresistible treat that everyone will love.
Finally, store leftover Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls properly to maintain freshness. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate them if you plan to keep them longer. Reheat individual servings briefly in the microwave for that just-baked taste.
Suggestions for Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls
For variations on Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition and flavor depth. This substitution alters the texture slightly but maintains deliciousness while providing more fiber.
If you enjoy nuts, adding chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling can provide delightful crunchiness alongside the smooth dulce de leche. Nuts add texture and complement the sweet flavors beautifully without overpowering them.
Experimenting with flavored cream cheese frosting instead of traditional icing can elevate your cinnamon rolls even further. A hint of vanilla or almond extract mixed into cream cheese frosting adds richness and pairs wonderfully with dulce de leche.
For those who prefer a less sweet option, using less dulce de leche or substituting it with caramel sauce can yield equally scrumptious results without overwhelming sweetness levels in each bite.
Lastly, consider serving these cinnamon rolls with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on the side for an indulgent dessert experience that transforms breakfast into an unforgettable treat any time of day.
FAQs
What are Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls?
Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls are sweet pastries made from soft cinnamon roll dough filled with rich dulce de leche sauce instead of traditional cinnamon sugar fillings. The unique twist on classic cinnamon rolls provides a creamy caramel-like flavor that melts in your mouth.
How do I make my cinnamon rolls fluffier?
To achieve fluffier Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls, focus on proper rising times during both stages: first after mixing the dough and second after shaping it into rolls. Ensure your yeast is fresh and activated correctly by testing it in warm water before use.
Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls ahead by assembling them completely before refrigerating overnight instead of letting them rise at room temperature. In the morning, simply take them out and let them rise again before baking for freshly baked deliciousness.
Is it possible to freeze Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! After baking your cinnamon rolls, allow them to cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or placing them in airtight containers suitable for freezing. They can last up to three months if stored correctly; simply reheat before serving!
What should I serve with Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls?
These delightful treats pair well with coffee or tea as comforting breakfast items or dessert options! For a special touch during brunch gatherings, serve alongside fresh fruit salads or whipped cream for added flavor contrast against their sweetness.
Can I substitute dulce de leche with another filling?
Yes! While dulce de leche provides unique flavor characteristics highly sought after in these cinnamon rolls, feel free to experiment by substituting other fillings such as chocolate hazelnut spread or homemade apple pie filling based on personal preferences!
Summary
Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls offer a delicious twist on traditional recipes by incorporating rich caramel flavors into soft pastry dough. Avoid common mistakes like improper rising times and overfilling while following helpful tips about ingredient preparation and storage methods ensures success every time you bake these treats! Consider variations such as adding nuts or trying different frostings for even more delectable options tailored just for you!