Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the aroma of fresh caramel rolls wafting through the kitchen. These Old Fashioned Caramel Rolls are a delightful treat that evokes warm memories of family gatherings and cozy mornings. Soft, pillowy rolls swirled with a rich, sweet filling and topped with a luscious caramel sauce will have everyone gathered around the table, eager for a taste. Whether you’re serving them for brunch, dessert, or a special occasion, these rolls are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction with every bite.
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 (includes rising time)
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a saucepan, gently heat the milk, sugar, and 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat until warm but not boiling. Remove from heat and stir in the yeast; allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture along with the eggs. Stir until a soft dough begins to form.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once risen, roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the remaining 1/4 cup of softened butter evenly across the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon on top. If using, add the chopped nuts for an extra crunch.
- Roll the dough tightly lengthwise to form a log, then slice it into 12 equal pieces.
- In a greased baking dish, melt the remaining 1/4 cup of butter and mix it with an additional 1/2 cup of brown sugar to create a sticky caramel sauce.
- Carefully arrange the cut rolls in the caramel mixture, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and your kitchen is filled with an irresistible aroma.
- Once baked, allow the rolls to cool slightly before inverting them onto a serving platter, letting the luscious caramel drizzle over the tops.
Notes or Tips
- For an even richer flavor, consider adding a dash of vanilla extract to the caramel sauce.
- Feel free to experiment with different nuts or even dried fruits in the filling for added texture and taste.
- These rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days. Simply warm them up in the oven before serving for that fresh-baked feel.
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough is a crucial step that develops gluten, making your rolls wonderfully soft and fluffy. Be gentle with your dough while rolling it out to maintain its texture. When rising, ensure it’s in a warm, draft-free spot for optimal yeast activation. Using fresh yeast will yield the best, fluffiest results.
FAQ
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough in advance, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before rolling and continuing with the recipe.
What can I serve with these caramel rolls?
These rolls are delightful on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a warm glass of milk. You could also serve them with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
Conclusion
Enjoying homemade Old Fashioned Caramel Rolls feels like a warm hug from the inside. With their soft texture, sweet filling, and gooey caramel topping, they encapsulate the essence of comfort food. Whether for a special occasion or an everyday treat, these rolls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So gather your loved ones, enjoy the baking process, and savor every blissful bite of these delicious rolls!