Hello, dear readers! Welcome to another delicious recipe that’s bound to become a favorite in your home. Today, we’re taking a sweet detour from savory dishes and diving into the world of indulgence with these Gooey Caramel Cinnamon Swirls. Imagine soft, fluffy dough filled with a rich cinnamon sugar filling, complemented by a delightful caramel swirl in every bite! These swirls are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any occasion that calls for a little sweet comfort.
If you’ve been on the hunt for something easy, fun, and totally drool-worthy, this is the recipe for you! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your journey, you’ll love how simple and rewarding these Gooey Caramel Cinnamon Swirls are to make. Let’s get started!
Introduction
Gooey Caramel Cinnamon Swirls are the epitome of comfort food, with their roots in traditional cinnamon roll recipes. What makes these extra special is the addition of caramel, creating a sweet and sticky treat that melts in your mouth. Popular in homes across the world, these cinnamon swirls are a delightful combination of tender dough, rich cinnamon flavor, and gooey caramel. They’re perfect for anyone who loves the classic taste of cinnamon rolls but craves an extra layer of indulgence.
These Gooey Caramel Cinnamon Swirls are not only delicious but also easy to make, and the homemade caramel adds a gourmet touch that elevates the entire experience. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this dish is a must-try for cinnamon lovers and caramel enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients for Gooey Caramel Cinnamon Swirls
Let’s start with the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe. Gather everything before you begin to ensure a smooth baking process!
For the dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Fo r the filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
For the caramel filling:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For the glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make Gooey Caramel Cinnamon Swirls – Step by Step
Making these delightful Gooey Caramel Cinnamon Swirls is easier than you might think. Follow this simple step-by-step guide to create the perfect treat.
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy. This step is crucial for ensuring your dough rises properly.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Once the yeast is activated, add the melted butter, egg, flour, and salt to the mixture. Stir everything together until a soft dough forms. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, or mix it by hand. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. The dough should become soft and pillowy.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined. This will be spread onto the dough later to create that irresistible cinnamon swirl.
Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle. The dough should be about 1/4 inch thick, ensuring it’s evenly spread.
Step 6: Add the Filling
Spread the cinnamon sugar butter mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, making sure to cover every inch for maximum flavor.
Step 7: Roll and Cut the Dough
Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from one of the long edges. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces, ensuring each roll is the same size for even baking.
Step 8: Second Rise and Preheat the Oven
Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them, and let them rise for an additional 20 minutes. While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 9: Add the Caramel
Before baking, spoon a generous amount of caramel sauce into the center of each roll. This will create the gooey caramel center that makes these swirls so decadent.
Step 10: Bake
Bake the Gooey Caramel Cinnamon Swirls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant.
Step 11: Make the Glaze
While the swirls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create the glaze. You want the glaze to be thick but pourable.
Step 12: Glaze and Serve
Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. Enjoy these delicious swirls warm for the ultimate treat!
Helpful Tips for Gooey Caramel Cinnamon Swirls
To make the best Gooey Caramel Cinnamon Swirls, here are some helpful tips:
- Use warm milk for the yeast mixture, not hot. Hot milk can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising.
- Knead the dough well for a smooth texture. Kneading helps develop the gluten, which gives the dough structure.
- Don’t overbake the rolls. You want them to be golden brown on the outside and soft in the center.
- Use good-quality caramel sauce for the best flavor. You can make your own or use a high-quality store-bought version.
Cooking Tips for the Best Gooey Caramel Cinnamon Swirls
Want to take your Gooey Caramel Cinnamon Swirls to the next level? Here are some cooking tips:
- Roll the dough evenly. This ensures that every bite has the perfect balance of dough and filling.
- Don’t rush the rising process. Letting the dough rise properly will give you soft, fluffy rolls.
- Add nuts for texture. If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon sugar filling.
Serving Suggestions for Gooey Caramel Cinnamon Swirls
These Gooey Caramel Cinnamon Swirls are perfect for breakfast or dessert. Serve them warm with a cup of coffee or tea, or enjoy them as a sweet snack any time of the day. For an extra indulgent treat, top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Nutritional Information
These Gooey Caramel Cinnamon Swirls are a sweet indulgence, and here’s what you can expect per serving:
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 24g
Storage and Leftovers for Gooey Caramel Cinnamon Swirls
If you have any leftovers (which might be rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. The rolls will stay soft and gooey, just like when they were fresh out of the oven!
4 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Gooey Caramel Cinnamon Swirls
Q1: Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the rolls the night before, cover them, and store them in the fridge overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature before baking.
Q2: Can I freeze the rolls?
Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked rolls after shaping them. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before putting them in the oven.
Q3: What if I don’t have caramel sauce?
You can make a quick homemade caramel by melting sugar and butter, or substitute with a store-bought version for convenience.
Q4: Can I use a different filling?
Feel free to customize the filling! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even a fruit filling for a fun twist.
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Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making these Gooey Caramel Cinnamon Swirls as much as we do! They’re the perfect treat for any occasion and are sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and variations in the comments below—happy baking!
PrintGooey Caramel Cinnamon Swirls – Irresistible Dessert Treat
Description
Hello, dear readers! Welcome to another delicious recipe that’s bound to become a favorite in your home. Today, we’re taking a sweet detour from savory dishes and diving into the world of indulgence with these Gooey Caramel Cinnamon Swirls. Imagine soft, fluffy dough filled with a rich cinnamon sugar filling, complemented by a delightful caramel swirl in every bite! These swirls are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any occasion that calls for a little sweet comfort.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
For the caramel filling:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For the glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy. This step is crucial for ensuring your dough rises properly.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Once the yeast is activated, add the melted butter, egg, flour, and salt to the mixture. Stir everything together until a soft dough forms. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, or mix it by hand. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. The dough should become soft and pillowy.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined. This will be spread onto the dough later to create that irresistible cinnamon swirl.
Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle. The dough should be about 1/4 inch thick, ensuring it’s evenly spread.
Step 6: Add the Filling
Spread the cinnamon sugar butter mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, making sure to cover every inch for maximum flavor.
Step 7: Roll and Cut the Dough
Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from one of the long edges. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces, ensuring each roll is the same size for even baking.
Step 8: Second Rise and Preheat the Oven
Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them, and let them rise for an additional 20 minutes. While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 9: Add the Caramel
Before baking, spoon a generous amount of caramel sauce into the center of each roll. This will create the gooey caramel center that makes these swirls so decadent.
Step 10: Bake
Bake the Gooey Caramel Cinnamon Swirls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant.
Step 11: Make the Glaze
While the swirls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create the glaze. You want the glaze to be thick but pourable.
Step 12: Glaze and Serve
Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. Enjoy these delicious swirls warm for the ultimate treat!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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- Use warm milk for the yeast mixture, not hot. Hot milk can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising.
- Knead the dough well for a smooth texture. Kneading helps develop the gluten, which gives the dough structure.
- Don’t overbake the rolls. You want them to be golden brown on the outside and soft in the center.
- Use good-quality caramel sauce for the best flavor. You can make your own or use a high-quality store-bought version.