Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman, is renowned for her heartwarming recipes that bring families together. Among her most beloved creations are her cinnamon rolls – fluffy, buttery swirls of dough drenched in a decadent maple icing. These aren’t just any cinnamon rolls; they’re a labor of love that culminates in a melt-in-your-mouth experience, perfect for a special breakfast, brunch, or dessert. If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that will impress your loved ones, look no further than these iconic Pioneer Woman rolls.
Why Pioneer Woman’s Cinnamon Rolls are a Must-Try
What sets Pioneer Woman’s cinnamon rolls apart? It’s the perfect combination of a soft, pillowy dough and a rich, flavorful maple icing. Ree Drummond’s recipes are famous for their generous use of butter and sugar, and these cinnamon rolls are no exception. This recipe elevates the classic cinnamon roll to a gourmet treat, making it ideal for special occasions or simply when you want to indulge in something truly delicious. The maple icing offers a delightful twist from the usual cream cheese frosting, adding a warm, comforting sweetness that perfectly complements the cinnamon spice. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe provides clear, step-by-step instructions to guide you through creating these heavenly rolls.
Ingredients for Pioneer Woman’s Cinnamon Rolls
To embark on your cinnamon roll journey, gather these ingredients for both the dough and the luscious maple icing.
For the Dough:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 packages active dry yeast (or 4 1/2 teaspoons from a jar)
- 9 cups all-purpose flour, divided (reserve 1 cup)
- 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, melted
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- Ground cinnamon (generous amount to your preference)
For the Maple Icing:
- 2 lb bag powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons maple flavoring (or vanilla extract as a substitute)
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Pioneer Woman’s Cinnamon Rolls
Follow these detailed instructions to create your own batch of Pioneer Woman’s famous cinnamon rolls.
Step 1: Scald the Milk Mixture
In a saucepan, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and sugar. Heat over medium-high heat, scalding the mixture until small bubbles appear around the edges. Do not let it boil. Remove from heat and let it cool until lukewarm (about 45 minutes to 1 hour). This cooling process is crucial to avoid killing the yeast.
Image showing the milk, sugar, and oil mixture being heated in a cast iron pot, a key step in preparing Pioneer Woman’s cinnamon rolls dough.
Step 2: Activate the Yeast
Once the milk mixture is lukewarm, sprinkle in the active dry yeast. Let it sit for a few moments to allow the yeast to absorb the liquid and activate.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Transfer the milk and yeast mixture to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. Add 8 cups of the all-purpose flour. Mix until just combined. Alternatively, you can mix by hand in a large bowl using a wooden spoon. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for at least 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Incorporate Remaining Ingredients
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Add the remaining 1 cup of flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir to combine everything thoroughly.
Step 5: Prepare the Dough for Rolling
Generously flour your rolling surface. Divide the dough in half and work with one half at a time, keeping the other half covered.
Image of a silicone baking mat generously sprinkled with flour, ready for rolling out the cinnamon roll dough according to Pioneer Woman’s recipe.
Step 6: Roll, Butter, and Sugar
Roll one half of the dough into a thin rectangle. Drizzle with 1/2 to 1 cup of melted butter, ensuring even coverage. Sprinkle 1 cup of sugar over the butter, followed by a generous amount of cinnamon.
Step 7: Roll and Cut the Cinnamon Rolls
Starting from the longest side of the rectangle, tightly roll up the dough. Pinch the seam to seal. Cut the roll into ¾ to 1-inch thick slices. Dental floss provides a clean cut, but a serrated knife also works.
Step 8: Second Rise
Spread about 1 tablespoon of melted butter in your baking dish(es). Arrange the cinnamon rolls in the buttered dish, leaving a little space for rising. A 9×13 inch pan can hold 12-15 rolls, while a disposable pie pan holds about 7, and a square cake pan around 9. Let the rolls rise for 20-30 minutes.
Image showing a disposable pie plate with melted butter spread on the bottom, ready to receive and bake Pioneer Woman’s cinnamon rolls.
Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown. Be careful not to overbake them to maintain their soft texture.
Step 10: Prepare the Maple Icing
While the rolls are baking, whisk together all the maple icing ingredients until smooth. The icing should be thick but pourable.
Step 11: Ice and Serve
Generously drizzle the warm maple icing over the hot cinnamon rolls immediately after they come out of the oven. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.
A collage of step-by-step images illustrating the process of making Pioneer Woman’s cinnamon rolls, from dough preparation to the final iced rolls.
Tips for Perfect Pioneer Woman Cinnamon Rolls
- Fresh Yeast is Key: Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise. If unsure, it’s best to buy new yeast.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix the dough just until the flour is incorporated to keep the rolls fluffy.
- Make Dough Ahead: Prepare the dough up to step 4, then refrigerate it overnight or for a couple of days. Punch down if it overflows during refrigeration.
- Silicone Mat for Rolling: A silicone mat makes rolling and cleanup easier.
- Dental Floss for Cutting: Use dental floss for clean, even cinnamon roll slices.
- Maple Flavoring Substitute: If you don’t have maple flavoring, vanilla extract works wonderfully as a substitute in the icing.
Serving and Storing Your Cinnamon Rolls
Pioneer Woman’s cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven, with a generous drizzle of maple icing. They pair perfectly with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving to restore their soft texture.
Indulge in the delightful sweetness and comforting warmth of Pioneer Woman’s cinnamon rolls. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, perfect for any occasion that calls for a touch of homemade goodness.
