Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the comforting aroma of freshly baked rolls wafting through the house. These Old Fashioned Caramel Rolls are not just a treat; they are a warm hug for your taste buds! With a rich caramel sauce that drizzles down the sides and a soft, fluffy center, every bite transports you back to simpler times. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon snack, these rolls are bound to be a new family favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, divided
- 2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, and 1/4 cup of butter. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is warm to the touch but not boiling. Remove from heat and stir in the yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, a sign that your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture along with the eggs, mixing until a dough starts to form.
- On a well-floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. Transfer it to a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for approximately 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the softened remaining 1/4 cup of butter over the surface of the dough. Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon on top. If you’re using nuts, now is the time to add them!
- Carefully roll the dough tightly from the lengthwise side, creating a log. Cut the log into 12 equal slices.
- In a greased baking dish, melt the leftover 1/4 cup of butter and mix it with an additional 1/2 cup of brown sugar to form a creamy caramel sauce.
- Place the cut rolls into the baking dish with the caramel mixture, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Allow them to rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the rolls are a beautiful golden brown and your kitchen fills with their delightful scent.
- Once baked, let the rolls cool slightly in the dish before inverting them onto a serving platter. Watch as the luscious caramel cascades down!
Notes or Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a touch of vanilla extract to the caramel sauce.
- If you’re short on time, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight.
- These caramel rolls are best enjoyed warm, but they can be stored in an airtight container for a few days.
Cooking Techniques
Kneading is essential for developing gluten in the dough, which gives the rolls their delightful texture. Make sure your hands are lightly floured to prevent sticking, and be patient — a good knead will make all the difference! Also, allowing the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area helps enhance the yeast’s effectiveness, leading to wonderfully soft rolls.
FAQ
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Just let it come to room temperature and rise before baking.
What can I do with leftover rolls?
These rolls are perfect for freezing! Just wrap them in plastic wrap or foil, and when you’re ready, thaw them at room temperature and reheat in the oven.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite as heartwarming as sharing a batch of homemade Old Fashioned Caramel Rolls. Whether you savor them with your morning coffee or serve them to loved ones, they are sure to create lasting memories. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy every gooey, sticky bite of these delightful treats!