Buttery Cinnamon Buns

These buttery cinnamon buns hold a special place in my heart. They're simple, golden, and carry that sweet, rich flavor that makes you crave just one more. I love how they come together perfectly—crisp on the outside, tender within, with a warm cinnamon filling that feels like a hug from the inside. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or later with a cup of tea, these buns bring people together around the table with their honest, comforting goodness.

Ingredients

1 packet (30g) active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups (375ml) whole milk, lukewarm
3 tbsp (45g) granulated sugar
1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
1 tsp salt
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
1 egg (50g), beaten for egg wash
Confectioners' sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in the lukewarm milk by stirring until completely mixed. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.

2. Add 3 tablespoons sugar, 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/2 cup softened butter, and salt. Mix until a smooth dough forms.

3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups flour and knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth.

4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning once to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

5. Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into two equal portions and roll each portion into a 35x30cm (14x12 inch) rectangle.

6. Mix the remaining 1/4 cup sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Brush each dough rectangle with melted butter and sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

7. Starting from the long side, roll up each rectangle tightly into a log and pinch the seams to seal. Cut each log into 12 equal pieces and place the pieces cut-side up in greased muffin tins.

8. Cover the buns with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes or until nearly doubled.

9. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Brush the tops of the buns with beaten egg.

10. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Cool in the tins for 5 minutes before removing. Dust with confectioners' sugar before serving.

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