Cinnamon

1.

The History and Origin of
Cinnamon Rolls
From ancient spices to modern pastry — a delicious journey through
time

2.

What Makes a Cinnamon Roll?
Cinnamon rolls are fragrant pastries that combine soft,
pillowy dough with sweet filling and the rich, warming
flavour of cinnamon. Their irresistible aroma and
comforting taste have made them beloved across the globe.
Today, they rank amongst the most popular treats enjoyed worldwide, whether as a breakfast indulgence or a sweet afternoon
treat.

3.

Chapter 1: Origins and History
The Nordic Roots
The cinnamon roll story begins in Northern Europe, particularly in
Sweden and Denmark. In Sweden, they are known as Kanelbullar, and
first emerged in the early 20th century when cinnamon became widely
available through expanding trade routes with the East Indies. This
exotic spice transformed Scandinavian baking forever.

4.

Journey to America
Post-War Era
After World War II, American soldiers and travellers
discovered these delights
American Adaptation
Bakers added thick cream cheese frosting for richness
Sweeter & Richer
The American version became bolder than Scandinavian
originals

5.

A Symbol of Comfort and
Culture
Global Comfort Food
Cinnamon rolls have become the quintessential symbol of cosy
breakfasts and warm moments shared with loved ones
Kanelbullens Dag
Sweden celebrates a national holiday dedicated to cinnamon buns
on 4th October, honouring this beloved pastry's cultural significance

6.

Chapter 2: Recipe Fundamentals
The Dough Foundation
Creating the perfect cinnamon roll begins with mastering a soft, enriched dough that rises beautifully and achieves that tender, pillowy crumb we all crave.
Ingredient
Quantity
Plain flour
360 g
Whole milk
120 ml
Ingredient
Quantity
Eggs
2 large
Caster sugar
60 g
Butter
15 g
Fresh yeast
15 g
Salt
to taste

7.

The Filling: Where the Magic Happens
Sweet Filling Blend
The filling is what gives cinnamon rolls their distinctive
character and irresistible flavour. This aromatic mixture
creates those beautiful spiral layers.
Softened butter — 70–90 g
Brown sugar — 90–120 g
Ground cinnamon — 15–20 g

8.

The Cream Cheese Frosting
No cinnamon roll is complete without a generous topping of silky cream cheese frosting.
This classic American addition provides the perfect balance of sweetness and tang.
Cream Cheese
50 g, softened to room temperature for smooth mixing
Icing Sugar
100 g, sifted for a lump-free, silky texture
Butter
40 g, creamed together for richness
Vanilla
A splash for warmth and depth of flavour

9.

Chapter 3: Baking Guide
From Dough to Delicious: Step by Step
Knead and Rise
Mix dough ingredients and knead until smooth and elastic. Allow to rise in a warm place until doubled — about 90 minutes
Spread the Filling
Roll out dough into a rectangle and spread the cinnamon-sugar butter mixture evenly across the surface
Roll and Cut
Tightly roll the dough into a log, then slice into 12–16 equal portions for even baking
Bake to Golden
Bake at 190°C for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and fragrant
Frost While Warm
Spread frosting generously over warm rolls so it melts slightly into every crevice

10.

Cinnamon Roll Stories Across Cultures
These beloved pastries have woven themselves into traditions and celebrations worldwide, each
culture adding its own unique twist.
American Tradition
Served as both breakfast indulgence and dessert, often with abundant cream cheese frosting
Finnish Variation
Bakers add fragrant cardamom to the filling, creating a distinctly Nordic flavour profile
Swedish Fika
An integral part of the cherished Fika coffee break tradition — a moment for connection and
indulgence