Heart Shaped Cinnamon Rolls

ByMia Harper
Heart shaped cinnamon rolls freshly baked and decorated with icing.

They say the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach, and these Heart Shaped Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect sweet treat to show your love. Fluffy, sweet, and beautifully shaped, they combine the classic flavor of cinnamon rolls with a romantic twist. Whether it’s for Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, or just a weekend breakfast, these rolls will delight your senses and warm your heart.

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including rising time)
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Servings: 12 rolls
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

  • Calories per serving: Approximately 190
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 7g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 120mg

Why Make This Heart Shaped Cinnamon Rolls

These Heart Shaped Cinnamon Rolls stand out not just for their shape but also for their pillowy texture and warm, sugary goodness. They entice you with the familiar aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen, and once you take a bite, the soft dough melts in your mouth. Perfectly sweet, they can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them a versatile choice for any occasion.

How to Make Heart Shaped Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup milk, warmed
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
  • 1 tablespoon milk (for icing)

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. This step activates the yeast, ensuring your rolls will rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mixing

Add melted butter, salt, vanilla extract, and egg to the yeast mixture. Stir well until fully combined. Gradually add flour to the mixture, kneading until a soft, elastic dough forms. This dough should be smooth to the touch, signaling that it’s ready for the next step.

Step 3: Rising

Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This crucial step allows the dough to develop flavor and texture, leading to light and fluffy rolls.

Step 4: Filling and Shaping

Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle. Spread with melted butter, then sprinkle evenly with cinnamon and brown sugar. Roll the dough tightly from one end to the other to form a log, then cut into heart shapes. Use a knife or kitchen scissors to create the heart shape, pressing the ends of each roll slightly together to form the point of the heart.

Step 5: Second Rising

Place the heart-shaped rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let them rise for another 30 minutes. This second rise enhances the fluffiness of your rolls.

Step 6: Baking

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. As they bake, you’ll experience the sweet, heavenly aroma filling your home.

Step 7: Icing Preparation

While the rolls are cooling slightly, mix powdered sugar and milk together in a small bowl to create a smooth icing. Adjust the consistency by adding more sugar or milk as needed.

Step 8: Finishing

Drizzle the icing over the warm rolls before serving. The warm rolls will slightly melt the icing, creating a delicious topping that enhances the cinnamon flavor.

How to Serve Heart Shaped Cinnamon Rolls

Serve these adorable rolls warm, allowing the icing to drizzle down the sides. They’re great on their own or paired with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy brunch. For an extra touch, consider adding fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream.

How to Store Heart Shaped Cinnamon Rolls

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresher longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect Heart Shaped Cinnamon Rolls

  • Ensure your milk is warm (not hot) to avoid killing the yeast.
  • If you want a richer flavor, substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
  • Use a combination of light and dark brown sugar for a more complex taste.
  • Make sure to roll the dough tightly to keep the filling secure and get nice pinwheels.

Delicious Variations

  • Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the cinnamon filling for extra crunch.
  • Fruity Twist: Incorporate dried fruits, such as raisins or cranberries, into the filling.
  • Chocolate Chip: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for a decadent touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
    Yes, you can use instant yeast. You won’t need to activate it in warm milk; simply mix it in with the dry ingredients.

  • What if my dough isn’t rising?
    Ensure your yeast is fresh and the environment is warm. You can cover the bowl with a towel and place it in a warm oven (turned off) with the light on for a cozy spot.

  • Can I make these ahead of time?
    Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to the second rise, refrigerate it overnight, and bake them in the morning.

  • What can I use instead of milk?
    Dairy-free alternatives like almond milk or oat milk work great in this recipe.

  • Is it possible to make mini rolls?
    Yes! Simply cut your dough into smaller pieces for a fun, bite-sized version of these heart-shaped delights.

Conclusion

These Heart Shaped Cinnamon Rolls are not only delightful to taste but also a charming centerpiece for any occasion. They’re easy to make and impossible to resist. Whether you’re celebrating love or treating yourself and your family, this recipe is sure to warm hearts and fill bellies. So gather your ingredients and whip up a batch of these delightful rolls today—you won’t regret it!

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