Description
Celebrate Easter morning with these adorable Bunny Cinnamon Rolls. Soft, fluffy rolls are swirled with cinnamon and sugar, then shaped into bunny forms and topped with a sweet glaze. They’re the perfect way to add a little sweetness to your holiday breakfast.
Ingredients
For the Bunny Cinnamon Rolls:
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 ½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (or heavy cream for a richer icing)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk (around 110°F or 43°C) with the granulated sugar and yeast. Stir to combine, then let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes, or until the yeast becomes frothy. This step ensures that the yeast is activated and ready to help the dough rise.
Add the melted butter, salt, eggs, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture, and stir to combine. Gradually add in the flour, one cup at a time, stirring until the dough begins to come together. Continue to add flour until the dough is soft, but not too sticky.
Once the dough has formed, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using an electric mixer with a dough hook, knead on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes.
Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This step is essential for achieving the soft, fluffy texture of the cinnamon rolls.
While the dough is rising, prepare the cinnamon-sugar filling. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
In a separate bowl, soften the butter by letting it sit at room temperature. Once soft, spread the butter evenly across the dough when it’s ready for the filling.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches. The dough should be around 1/4 inch thick.
Brush the dough with the softened butter, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the butter, covering the entire surface.
To create the bunny shape, cut the dough into long strips (about 1 to 1 ½ inches wide). Take one strip and form a loop for the bunny’s head. Then, take another strip and create the bunny’s body by wrapping it around the head loop, leaving a little space for the ears. Finally, twist the remaining dough to create the bunny’s ears.
Place the bunny-shaped rolls on a greased or lined baking sheet, spacing them about 1-2 inches apart. These rolls should rise a little more as they bake, so make sure they have enough room to expand.
Cover the baking sheet with a clean towel or plastic wrap and allow the rolls to rise for another 30 minutes. This second rise will help the rolls puff up and become even softer.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, place them in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The cinnamon rolls should be soft in the center and slightly crisp on the edges.
While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed for a drizzle or less if you prefer a thicker icing.
Once the Bunny Cinnamon Rolls have finished baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Drizzle the icing over the warm rolls using a spoon or a piping bag for more control. You can also sprinkle some colorful sprinkles or edible glitter on top for extra festivity.
Serve the Bunny Cinnamon Rolls warm for the best flavor and texture. They make a great addition to an Easter breakfast or brunch, and are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 230-250 kcal
- Fat: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Protein: 3g