Classic Cinnamon Roll Bites (Print Version)

Tender cinnamon roll bites, baked golden and drizzled with vanilla glaze for a delightful sweet treat.

# Ingredients:

→ Dough

01 - 3 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast
03 - ¼ cup granulated sugar
04 - ½ teaspoon salt
05 - ¾ cup warm whole milk
06 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
07 - 1 large egg

→ Cinnamon Filling

08 - ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened
09 - ½ cup packed brown sugar
10 - 1½ tablespoons ground cinnamon
11 - ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
12 - Pinch of salt

→ Vanilla Glaze

13 - 1 cup powdered sugar
14 - 2 to 3 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream
15 - ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
16 - Optional: 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened

# Steps:

01 - In a large bowl, combine warm milk, granulated sugar, and instant yeast. Allow to stand for 5 minutes until foamy. If desired, skip proofing and proceed directly if yeast freshness is not a concern.
02 - Incorporate melted butter, egg, salt, and gradually add flour. Stir until a soft, cohesive dough forms.
03 - Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface; knead by hand for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Dough should remain soft yet not sticky.
04 - Place dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm area for 45 to 60 minutes, or until doubled in bulk.
05 - Combine brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Set aside.
06 - Punch down risen dough gently. Roll out into a 12 by 16 inch rectangle on a floured surface.
07 - Evenly spread softened butter over dough. Sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture generously, pressing gently to adhere.
08 - Starting from a long side, roll dough tightly into a log. With a sharp knife or dental floss, cut into 1 inch pieces. Halve each to create bite-sized portions.
09 - Arrange dough bites in a greased baking dish, leaving space between for expansion. Cover and let rise for 20 minutes.
10 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until tops are lightly golden and centers are set. Avoid overbaking to maintain softness.
11 - Whisk powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla extract together until smooth. Blend in cream cheese if desired. Adjust consistency as needed.
12 - Drizzle glaze over warm cinnamon roll bites. For a richer finish, apply a second layer once partially absorbed.

# Notes:

01 - Proofing yeast before combining with flour helps ensure it is still active, resulting in a lighter, more tender product.
02 - Letting dough rise in a slightly warm oven with just the light on is an efficient way to create optimal conditions for fermentation.