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Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls

Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls
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Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls offer a warm, comforting twist on the classic cinnamon roll by incorporating mashed sweet potatoes into a tender, fluffy dough. These rolls combine natural sweetness, vibrant color, and a moist texture with the cozy flavor of cinnamon and brown sugar. Perfect for special breakfasts, holiday occasions, or anytime you crave a homemade treat with a unique flavor and appearance.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 1 cup cooked and mashed sweet potatoes
  • 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free yeast baking blend for gluten-free option)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 1/4 cup melted butter (or coconut oil for vegan)
  • 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Filling Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup softened butter (or plant-based butter for vegan)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for nutty addition)

Glaze Options

  • Cream cheese frosting
  • Vanilla icing
  • Powdered sugar glaze
  • Maple syrup glaze (optional alternative)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and boil or bake sweet potatoes until very tender. Mash smoothly and allow to cool completely before using to ensure moisture and flavor integration in the dough.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit until foamy, about 5-10 minutes. Add mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, egg, brown sugar, vanilla extract, salt, cinnamon, and 3 1/2 cups of flour. Mix well and knead until a smooth, slightly sticky dough forms, adding more flour as needed.
  3. Let the Dough Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
  4. Roll and Fill: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly over the surface. Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon mixture generously, adding nuts if desired.
  5. Shape the Rolls: Roll the dough tightly into a log from the long edge. Cut into 12 equal slices and arrange them cut-side up in a greased baking pan.
  6. Second Rise: Cover the rolls and let them rise for an additional 30 to 45 minutes until puffy.
  7. Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  8. Add Glaze: While rolls are still warm, drizzle with your choice of glaze such as cream cheese frosting, vanilla icing, powdered sugar glaze, or maple syrup glaze for extra sweetness and shine.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to help activate yeast and achieve smooth dough.
  • Do not over-flour the dough; keep it slightly sticky for soft, tender rolls.
  • Allow sufficient rising time for the dough to ensure fluffiness.
  • Grease your pan generously to prevent sticking.
  • Brush rolls with butter before baking to create a golden crust and enhance flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet potato cinnamon rolls, cinnamon rolls, sweet potato baking, gluten-free cinnamon rolls, holiday breakfast, cinnamon roll recipe

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/sweet-potato-cinnamon-rolls/