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There's nothing quite like the inviting scent of homemade cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen. These heart-shaped treats elevate the classic breakfast roll into something extraordinary. The soft, pillowy dough and rich cinnamon-sugar filling create the perfect comfort food, while the unique heart shape makes them ideal for special occasions.
These heart-shaped rolls started as a cozy winter morning experiment and quickly became a cherished family tradition. The kitchen fills with warmth and anticipation as everyone helps shape the dough into perfect hearts.
Key Ingredients
- Bread Flour: Provides structure and chewiness essential for the perfect texture
- Active Dry Yeast: Creates proper rise and that classic yeasty aroma
- Whole Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dough
- Greek Yogurt: Keeps rolls tender and fresh
- Ground Cinnamon: Use fresh, aromatic cinnamon for best results
Shaping Method
- Heat liquids:
- Warm milk and water to bath temperature to activate yeast properly
- Mix dry ingredients:
- Combine flour, yeast and sugar thoroughly
- Add wet ingredients:
- Incorporate warmed liquids and yogurt
- Mix dough:
- Begin slowly, increasing speed as dough forms
- Knead thoroughly:
- Continue until dough becomes smooth and springy
- First rise:
- Place in greased bowl until doubled
- Roll dough:
- Form even rectangle for consistent rolls
- Add filling:
- Spread soft butter and cinnamon-sugar mixture
- Shape hearts:
- Roll from long sides toward center
- Cut and form:
- Slice evenly and shape into hearts
- Second rise:
- Let shaped rolls become puffy
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Baking Instructions
- Temperature control:
- Preheat to 350°F before baking
- Visual cues:
- Bake until golden brown with slight give when touched
Traditional baking wisdom teaches us that dough needs gentle handling and patience. Understanding how the dough should feel leads to consistently perfect results.
Icing Techniques
For ideal icing consistency, start with minimal liquid and adjust gradually as needed.
Serving Temperature
The rolls' temperature affects icing texture - warmer rolls create thinner coverage while cooled rolls maintain thicker icing.
Advance Preparation
Shape rolls the evening before, refrigerate overnight, and return to room temperature before baking.
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These heart-shaped rolls represent the perfect blend of traditional baking and special occasion treats. They consistently bring families together, creating lasting memories around the breakfast table.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What's the best way to keep leftover rolls?
- Keep them in a sealed container at room temp for about two days. Just warm them up a bit before you eat them.
- → The store rolls I bought have frosting. What should I do?
- Feel free to use that frosting! Just add some food coloring or fun sprinkles to give it a Valentine's vibe.
- → Is it okay to freeze these rolls?
- Totally, but freeze them before you put the frosting on. Let them thaw out all the way, warm them up, and then add the frosting.
- → How can I keep the hearts from losing their shape?
- Just pop the shaped rolls in the fridge for about 10 or 15 minutes before you bake them. That should do the trick.
- → Is it possible to get these ready the night before?
- Sure, if you're making the dough yourself, shape the rolls and stick them in the fridge overnight. Give them some time to warm up to room temperature before you bake them.