"Roll" out of bed and eat these...

I apologize for the length of time between posts. I would offer up excuses; but really it's very lame[read:my camera battery died and I never got around to recharging it] and I wouldn't want to tar my reputation(Yeah, right). However, hopefully this post will redeem me.



For whatever reason at seven o'clock last night I got a hankerin' for something hot and baked. I don't know why I do these things to myself? My kitchen was spotless thanks to my wonderful Hub, kids were ready to get in bed. So, I suppose it was screamin' to me.

What else? Cinnamon rolls! I have wanted these for the past, well month really, but my laziness, guilt, and common sense got the better of me.


It was worth all the work. I'll clue in all(three) of you readers, the easiest way to slice them is with dental floss. I can't remember where I picked up this handy tip, but it makes me oh so happy. One less knife I have to wash. You know, because that's how I roll.

I just realized how corny that unintentional pun was.

Three hours later, they emerged from the oven. I apologize for the bad picture, but after that long, they weren't gonna sit too long for a photo shoot.

The best thing about this recipe is that it yields 24 rolls, on your hips as well. I was able to bake six for a snack, stick six in the fridge to rise overnight for breakfast this morning, then the last twelve? Well, into the freezer to freeze for the next time I get a cravin'. And that time, I won't have to do any work. Oh yeah...!

Basic Sweet Dough:
3/4 c. milk
1/2 c. sugar
1 1/4 salt
1/2 c. butter
2 packages yeast
1/3 c. warm water
3 eggs, room temp
5 1/2 to 6 1/2 c. AP flour

Place milk, sugar, salt, and butter, in small saucepan. Heat over low heat until butter melts and sugar dissolves. Cool to room temp.

Dissolve yeast in warm water in warm bowl. Add milk mixture, eggs, and 5 cups flour. Mix about 2 mins. with dough hook. Add remaining flour 1/2 cup at a time and mix until dough clings to hook. At this point, I usually pull it out of the mixer and knead by hand.

Place dough in greased bowl, turning to grease top. Cover. Let rise about 1 hour or until doubled.

Turn dough onto floured surface and roll into 10x24 in. rectangle.

Now for the...

Filling:
1 c. brown sugar
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 butter, softened
1/4 c. AP flour
1 1/2 tbsp. cinnamon
1/2 c. walnuts

Mix together until well blended. Spread mixture over dough. Roll dough tightly to form 24 inch roll and pinch seam to seal. Cut into 25 slices(about 1 inch).

Place in two greased 13x9 in. baking pans and let rise 45 to 60 minutes, or until doubled.

Bake at 350º for 20 to 25 mins.

Glaze:

1/3 c. evaporated milk
2 tbsp. brown sugar
1 1/2 c. powdered sugar
1 tsp. vanilla

Place milk and brown sugar in small saucepan. Cook over medium until it begins to boil, stirring constantly. Place milk mixture, powdered sugar, and vanilla in bowl and beat until cream.

Yields: 24