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Cinnamon Date Rolls

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Cinnamon Date Rolls are soft, naturally sweet, and full of cozy cinnamon flavor. Made with a wholesome date filling and pillowy dough, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a satisfying snack. Their natural sweetness and comforting spices make them feel indulgent yet nourishing.

Ingredients

  • For the dough:
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar or maple syrup
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 egg
  • For the date cinnamon filling:
  • 1 1/2 cups Medjool dates, pitted
  • 1/3 cup water or orange juice
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons butter or coconut oil
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: pinch of salt
  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • For the glaze (optional):
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 12 tablespoons milk or cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: pinch of cinnamon or orange zest

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix warm milk and sugar, then sprinkle yeast over the top. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add flour, softened butter, egg, and salt. Mix and knead for 8–10 minutes until a soft, elastic dough forms.
  3. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
  4. Meanwhile, simmer the pitted dates with water or juice until soft (about 5–7 minutes). Blend with cinnamon, butter, and optional vanilla or salt until smooth.
  5. Roll the dough into a rectangle (about 9×13 inches). Spread the date filling evenly over the dough and sprinkle nuts if using.
  6. Roll the dough tightly into a log from the long side, then slice into 9–12 rolls.
  7. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
  8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and baked through.
  9. If glazing, whisk together glaze ingredients and drizzle over warm rolls after slightly cooling.

Notes

  • Medjool dates work best for a soft, caramel-like filling.
  • Dough can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight.
  • Use plant milk and coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
  • Try cardamom or nutmeg for extra spice depth.
  • Freeze baked rolls individually and reheat as needed.

Nutrition