Cinnamon Rolls Made with Fresh Milled Flour (Soft & Fluffy!)

Cinnamon rolls made with fresh milled flour bring back warm memories of family gatherings. The scent of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the house creates an inviting atmosphere that makes everyone feel at home. Those delightful moments in the kitchen with my family surrounded by freshly baked treats always inspired my passion for baking.

The connection between hearty, soft cinnamon rolls and bustling family mornings resonates deeply. The first bite of a warm, gooey cinnamon roll drizzled with cream cheese frosting is more than just dessert; it’s a way to bond, share, and create lasting memories.

For me, using fresh milled flour adds an incredible depth of flavor and nutrition to the dough. The process of milling flour fresh allows for an unparalleled taste and texture, transforming these rolls into a heavenly treat. These cinnamon rolls, made with fresh milled flour, promise softness and fluffiness that is hard to resist.

Join the journey of crafting these scrumptious cinnamon rolls that celebrate not just the flavors, but the traditions passed down through generations.

Cinnamon Rolls with Fresh Milled Flour

Fundamentals

Creating cinnamon rolls with fresh milled flour requires understanding the basics of dough-making and the specific flours involved. Fresh milled hard white wheat flour contributes excellent structure and elasticity to the rolls, while soft white wheat flour keeps them tender and soft. These two types of flour work in harmony to produce the perfect texture.

The most important aspect of baking these rolls is the Tangzhong method, a simple yet effective technique. This involves cooking a portion of the flour with water and milk to create a thick paste before incorporating it into the dough. This paste helps retain moisture, resulting in wonderfully soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls.

Preparation/setup

Before starting, it’s essential to gather all the ingredients. Measure out the fresh milled hard white wheat flour, soft white wheat flour, whole milk, water, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Ensure everything is at room temperature to maximize the dough’s rise.

A warm environment aids in yeast activation. Preparing a proofing area can make a significant difference. Lightly greasing a bowl will allow the dough to rise without sticking.

Ingredients

The ingredient list for these scrumptious cinnamon rolls is straightforward yet impactful. Use the following:

• 27 grams fresh milled hard white wheat flour
• 60 grams whole milk
• 44 grams water
• 405 grams fresh milled hard white wheat flour
• 217 grams fresh milled soft white wheat flour
• 270 grams whole milk
• 14 grams instant yeast
• 47 grams sugar
• 2¼ teaspoons salt
• 2 eggs
• 72 grams butter, softened
• 6 grams vanilla extract

For the filling:

• 93 grams butter, softened
• 130 grams brown sugar
• 15 grams cinnamon

For the frosting:

• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
• 60 grams butter, softened
• 250 grams powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

Directions

1. Make the Tangzhong: In a saucepan, combine the 27 grams of fresh milled hard white wheat flour, 60 grams of whole milk, and 44 grams of water. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and forms a paste. Remove from heat and let it cool.

2. Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled Tangzhong with the 405 grams of fresh milled hard white wheat flour, 217 grams of fresh milled soft white wheat flour, 270 grams of whole milk, 14 grams of instant yeast, 47 grams of sugar, 2¼ teaspoons of salt, and the 2 eggs. Mix until a dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Incorporate the 72 grams of softened butter and knead for an additional 5 minutes. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it. Let it rise in a warm area until it doubles in size, approximately 1 to 2 hours.

4. Roll and Fill: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread 93 grams of softened butter over the surface. Mix together the 130 grams of brown sugar and 15 grams of cinnamon and sprinkle it over the buttered dough.

5. Shape the Rolls: Starting from one end, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into equal pieces. Place them into a greased baking dish, ensuring they’re not too crowded. Cover them and allow them to rise again for about 30 minutes.

6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350° F (175° C). Bake the rolls for about 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown.

7. Make the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, whip together the 8 oz. of softened cream cheese, 60 grams of softened butter, 250 grams of powdered sugar, 1 tbsp of vanilla extract, and 1/4 tsp of salt until creamy and smooth.

8. Frost the Rolls: Once the cinnamon rolls cool slightly, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top and indulge!

Perfecting Cinnamon Rolls with Fresh Milled Flour

Technique

Perfecting the technique of making cinnamon rolls with fresh milled flour involves paying close attention to the dough’s hydration level and kneading. The Tangzhong method promotes an exquisite texture, but one must ensure that all measurements are accurate, especially the liquids.

The rolling process is also vital. Rolling too thin or thick can affect cooking times and the final product’s fluffiness. A uniform thickness of about 1/4 inch ensures even baking and a delightful swirl in each bite.

Tips/tricks

Using fresh milled flour can be a game changer in baking. If you don’t have a grain mill, consider purchasing flour from a local mill to ensure the freshest taste. Storing flour in a cool, dry place helps maintain its quality.

Allow the dough to rise in a warm environment for optimal yeast activity. If your kitchen is chilly, turn on the oven for a few minutes, switch it off, and place the dough inside to rise.

Troubleshooting Cinnamon Roll Issues

Perfecting Results

Even experienced bakers encounter challenges. If your cinnamon rolls turn out dense, it may be due to over-kneading or not allowing enough time for the yeast to work. Pay attention to the dough’s feel; it should be soft and slightly tacky but not sticky.

Under-baking can lead to doughy centers. Ensuring that the rolls are evenly spaced in the dish allows for proper heat circulation.

Variations

Try adding various fillings to these rolls for a different taste. Chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits can create exciting variations. For a seasonal twist, consider incorporating pumpkin spice or nutmeg during cool months.

Experimenting with icing flavors like maple or almond can also give these cinnamon rolls a new dimension.

Serving and Storing Cinnamon Rolls

Presentation

Presenting your cinnamon rolls is a delightful part of the experience. Dust the tops lightly with powdered sugar or garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon and some chopped nuts for added flair. Arrange them in a decorative manner on a serving platter to invite everyone to dig in.

Pairings/Storage

These cinnamon rolls pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a brunch gathering, they complement fruit salads or yogurt parfaits seamlessly.

Storing any leftovers is easy. Allow the rolls to cool completely, then cover them with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, just warm them briefly in the oven.

Cinnamon rolls made with fresh milled flour deliver a nostalgic, comforting experience. The soft, fluffy texture and warm cinnamon flavor create moments worth sharing, making this recipe a cherished staple in any home. Enjoy the delightful journey of baking and sharing these delicious rolls with loved ones.

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