Why Make This Recipe

Old-Fashioned Caramel Rolls are a delightful treat that brings back the warmth of homemade baking. These sweet rolls are soft and gooey with a rich caramel sauce, making them a perfect choice for breakfast or dessert. The combination of cinnamon and nuts adds extra flavor and texture, making every bite a comforting experience.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Caramel Rolls

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 packet active dry yeast
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup water
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large egg
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter (for caramel)
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Directions

In a small saucepan, heat the milk, water, and butter until warm (about 110°F). Add the yeast and let it sit for 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and egg; mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until smooth.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
In another saucepan, melt the unsalted butter for the caramel and mix it with the brown sugar until smooth. Pour this mixture into a greased baking dish.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface. Sprinkle cinnamon and optional chopped nuts over the dough. Roll it up tightly and cut it into slices.
Place the rolls into the caramel mixture and let them rise again for 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown.
Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving warm. Enjoy!

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Caramel Rolls

These caramel rolls are best served warm. You can enjoy them plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them ideal for breakfast or as a sweet afternoon snack.

How to Store Old-Fashioned Caramel Rolls

To store leftover rolls, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Tips to Make Old-Fashioned Caramel Rolls

Make sure your liquids are warm but not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.
Knead the dough well to ensure the rolls are light and fluffy.
Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon and nuts according to your taste.
If you want extra caramel sauce, double the caramel ingredients.

Variation

You can try different fillings for your caramel rolls, such as chocolate chips, raisins, or even a cream cheese filling for a richer flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature before rolling it out.

2. What can I substitute for unsalted butter?
You can use salted butter instead of unsalted butter, but reduce the added salt in the recipe.

3. How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
The rolls should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped lightly. You can also check with a toothpick; it should come out clean if they are fully baked.