Cinnamon Buns

Ingredients

• 1 package/2 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm water (105-115°F)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, melted and cooled slightly
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
• Cream Cheese Icing (optional)

Directions

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let stand for 5 minutes.
2. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the dissolved yeast, the 2 tablespoons of sugar, melted butter, salt and eggs. Beat on low speed for 2 minutes.
3. Add the flour and beat on low speed for 2 minutes. Increase the speed to medium and beat for 3 minutes. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
4. Remove the dough from the bowl and knead it on a lightly floured surface for 2 minutes. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Punch down the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to a 12x18-inch rectangle.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, raisins and nuts. Sprinkle the mixture over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
7. Starting at the long end, roll the dough into a log and pinch the seam to seal.
8. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place the pieces in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
9. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place for 45 minutes.
10. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
11. Remove from the oven and drizzle with cream cheese icing, if desired.

Interesting Facts

• Cinnamon buns are believed to have originated in Sweden in the 18th century.
• The Swedish name for cinnamon buns is “kanelbulle”, which translates to “cinnamon bun”.
• Cinnamon buns are a popular snack in North America, with the majority of sales occurring around the holiday season.