Caramel Cinnamon Rolls

Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls are the epitome of comfort food, blending warm, pillowy dough with the rich, sweet decadence of dulce de leche. These rolls are not just a treat but an experience that fills your home with delightful aromas, bringing a sense of nostalgia and warmth. They create memories around the kitchen table, making them perfect for family gatherings, brunches, or simply when you need to indulge in a little sweetness. If you’re looking for a recipe that is easy, satisfying, and irresistibly delicious, look no further! With this step-by-step guide, you’ll master the art of creating these delightful cinnamon rolls that are sure to impress.

Ingredients

To make Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients, each contributing to the overall rich and creamy experience:

• 3 1/2 cups (420 g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting – a light and versatile base for our tender dough.
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar – sweetens the dough and filling, bringing in that comforting taste.
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (7 g) instant yeast – helps the rolls rise beautifully, creating a fluffy texture.
• 1 teaspoon fine salt – balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – adds a warm, aromatic essence that pairs perfectly with dulce de leche.
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg – brings a hint of warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• 6 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter, melted – enriches the dough with a decadent buttery flavor.
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk, warm – hydrates the dough for a soft, tender roll.
• 1/2 cup (120 g) full-fat sour cream – adds creaminess and a slight tang that elevates the flavor.
• 1 large egg, room temperature – binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – infuses the rolls with a lovely, fragrant sweetness.
• 4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter, softened – used in the filling for that luscious texture.
• 1/3 cup (105 g) dulce de leche – the star of the show, this creamy, caramel-like substance adds unmatchable sweetness.
• 1/3 cup (65 g) packed light brown sugar – enhances the filling’s sweetness and provides a hint of molasses flavor.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – adds an extra layer of warm spice to the filling.
• 1/2 cup (55 g) chopped toasted pecans, optional – introduces a delightful crunch and nuttiness.
• 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, softened – creates a rich and creamy glaze.
• 2 tablespoons (30 g) dulce de leche – for the glaze, adding even more indulgent flavor.
• 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter, softened – incorporates richness into the glaze.
• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar – sweetens the glaze to perfection.
• 2-3 tablespoons whole milk – adjusts the glaze’s consistency for the perfect drizzle.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – rounds out the glaze with aromatic sweetness.
• Pinch of salt – enhances the flavor in the glaze.

Cooking Time & Tips For Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls

When preparing Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls, timing can be crucial. The difference between quick and slow preparation lies mainly in the resting and rising times for the dough. Quick preparation often aims for less rising time, which can lead to denser rolls, while slow preparation allows the yeast to work its magic fully, resulting in lighter, airier rolls.

To ensure your cinnamon rolls turn out perfect, here are a few practical tips:

1. Always use warm (not hot) liquids to activate the yeast effectively without killing it.
2. If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the dough in a turned-off oven with the light on to create a warm, draft-free environment for rising.
3. Don’t skip the resting time; allowing the dough to rise fully contributes to the rolls’ fluffy texture.
4. When rolling out the dough, ensure it’s generously floured to prevent sticking, making your rolling and shaping much easier.

Step-by-Step Directions

In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg—this aromatic blend sets the flavorful foundation for your rolls.

Next, pour in the melted butter, warm milk, sour cream, egg, and vanilla. Using a dough hook, mix on low until all the ingredients are combined. Then, knead the dough on medium-low for about 8–10 minutes until it is smooth and slightly tacky to the touch.

Once your dough is ready, transfer it to a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.

While the dough is rising, grease a 9-inch square baking dish. For the next stage, punch down the dough gently to release air, then roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 12 by 18 inches.

Spread the softened butter mixed with dulce de leche over the surface of the rolled-out dough. This will create a sweet, gooey filling. Then, sprinkle on the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and, if you desire, the chopped toasted pecans for added texture and flavor.

Carefully roll the dough tightly from the long side, sealing the edge to avoid any filling escaping. Using dental floss or a serrated knife, cut the rolled dough into 9 even pieces, ensuring every roll is equally stuffed with sweetness. Place the rolls in the prepared baking dish, cut side up.

Cover the pan with a towel and let the rolls rise again until they are puffy, about 30 to 45 minutes. About 10 minutes before baking, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Bake for 28 to 32 minutes until the tops are golden brown and the centers look well set. After baking, cool the rolls for 5 minutes on a wire rack.

In the meantime, prepare the glaze: beat the cream cheese, dulce de leche, softened butter, powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. Once the rolls have cooled slightly, spread a third of the glaze over the hot rolls. Wait for about 5 minutes, then drizzle with the remaining glaze to create a luscious finish.

Serving Suggestions & Occasions

Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on various occasions. They make for an excellent brunch dish, served alongside fresh fruit and a steaming cup of coffee or tea.

Consider serving them as a delightful dessert after a family dinner or during festive celebrations like birthdays or holidays. If you’re looking to impress guests, these rolls are bound to be a showstopper. For a cozy family weekend, pair them with warm milk or artisan hot chocolate for the perfect treat.

Common Mistakes For Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls

Even seasoned bakers can occasionally run into hurdles when making cinnamon rolls. Some common mistakes include:

• Not allowing the dough sufficient time to rise, resulting in dense rolls.
• Using cold ingredients, which can affect the dough’s ability to rise and achieve the right texture.
• Over-flouring the work surface initially, making it challenging to roll the dough out into the desired thickness.
• Cutting the rolls too small or unevenly, which can affect baking time and ensuring every roll cooks uniformly.

Healthier Alternatives & Variations

If you’re looking to make your Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls a tad healthier, consider these alternatives:

• Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase fiber content.
• Use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute to reduce the overall sugar load without sacrificing sweetness.
• Incorporate more nuts or seeds, like hemp seeds, for added nutrients.
• For a dairy-free version, consider using almond milk and a plant-based butter substitute for the dough and glaze.

FAQs

1. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and shape the rolls, then refrigerate them overnight before baking.

2. What can I use if I don’t have dulce de leche?
   You can substitute with caramel sauce, though the flavor will be slightly different.

3. Can these rolls be frozen?
   Yes! After baking, cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven before serving.

4. Can I use less sugar?
   You can adjust the sugar based on your taste, but remember it helps with the overall texture and rising of the dough.

5. What’s the best way to store leftover rolls?
   Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

6. Do I have to add nuts?
   No, the nuts are optional! Feel free to leave them out if desired.

Tempt readers to try it immediately

Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls are more than just a baked good; they are a delightful experience that will fill your kitchen with warmth and sweet aromas. With their rich filling and creamy glaze, these rolls are the perfect treat for any occasion or even a cozy night in. Try making them today, and indulge in a slice of happiness that you and your loved ones will not forget!

Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls

Indulge in these warm and pillowy Dulce De Leche Cinnamon Rolls filled with gooey sweetness and topped with a creamy glaze, perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 40 minutes mins

Cook Time 32 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 12 minutes mins

Course Brunch, Dessert

Cuisine American, Comfort Food

Servings 9 rolls

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

  

Dough Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting a light and versatile base for our tender dough.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar sweetens the dough and filling.
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast helps the rolls rise beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon fine salt balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic essence.
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg brings warmth and depth.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted enriches the dough.
• 1/2 cup whole milk, warm hydrates the dough.
• 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream adds creaminess.
• 1 large egg, room temperature binds the ingredients.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract infuses the rolls with sweetness.

Filling Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened used in the filling.
• 1/3 cup dulce de leche the star ingredient.
• 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar enhances the filling’s sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon adds extra spice.
• 1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans optional for crunch.

Glaze Ingredients

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened creates a rich glaze.
• 2 tablespoons dulce de leche for added flavor.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened for richness.
• 1 cup powdered sugar sweetens the glaze.
• 2-3 tablespoons whole milk to adjust consistency.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract rounds out the glaze.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
• Pour in the melted butter, warm milk, sour cream, egg, and vanilla. Mix on low until combined.
• Knead the dough on medium-low for 8–10 minutes until smooth and slightly tacky.
• Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour until doubled in size.
• While the dough is rising, grease a 9-inch square baking dish.

Rolling and Filling

• Punch down the dough gently to release air, and roll it out into a 12 by 18-inch rectangle.
• Spread the butter mixed with dulce de leche over the surface of the dough.
• Sprinkle on the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and optional pecans.
• Roll the dough tightly from the long side and cut into 9 even pieces.

Second Rise and Baking

• Place the rolls in the prepared baking dish, cut side up, and cover with a towel to rise for another 30-45 minutes.
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) about 10 minutes before baking.
• Bake for 28 to 32 minutes until golden brown and centers look set.
• Cool the rolls for 5 minutes on a wire rack.

Glazing

• Beat the cream cheese, dulce de leche, butter, powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
• Spread a third of the glaze over the hot rolls and drizzle with the remaining glaze after 5 minutes.

Notes

Ensure warm (not hot) liquids are used to activate yeast effectively. Allow sufficient rising time for fluffy texture and avoid over-flouring the surface when rolling out the dough.

Keyword Baked Goods, Cinnamon Rolls, Dulce De Leche, Indulgence, Sweet Rolls