In addition to being a classic comfort food, cinnamon rolls are a staple in Southern cuisine. These fluffy and indulgent treats are a beloved dessert or breakfast option that has been passed down for generations. One bite of a warm, gooey cinnamon roll is enough to transport you to a cozy kitchen and fill your heart with warmth. While every Southern family may have their own twist on the recipe, there are a few key elements that make for the perfect cinnamon roll. Join us as we dive into the world of Southern kitchen cinnamon rolls and share our favorite recipe for you to try at home.
If you're a fan of Southern cuisine, then you'll love this beer can chicken recipe. The combination of crispy fried catfish and tender beer can chicken is a match made in heaven. Don't forget to add a touch of Cajun seasoning for some extra flavor.
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Authentic Southern Shrimp and Grits
Main Ingredients: Grits, Milk, Vegetable Broth, Butter, Cheddar, Shrimp
Get a taste of the South with this authentic shrimp and grits recipe. The creaminess of the grits pairs perfectly with the juicy beer can chicken. For a twist, try using gouda cheese in your grits.
No Southern meal is complete without a delicious dessert, and this peach cobbler is a must-try. The warm, gooey peaches combined with a flaky crust and a scoop of vanilla ice cream is the perfect way to end your beer can chicken dinner. Pro tip: add a sprinkle of cinnamon for some extra flavor.
This recipe is a staple at many Southern gatherings, and for good reason. The sweetness of the candied yams pairs perfectly with the savory beer can chicken. Add a dash of nutmeg for a unique twist.
If you're not a fan of peaches, then this blackberry cobbler is a great alternative. The tartness of the blackberries balances out the rich flavor of the beer can chicken. For an extra indulgent treat, top it off with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
Another peach cobbler recipe, but with a different twist. This Southern style cobbler has a crumbly, buttery topping that complements the tender beer can chicken perfectly. For a boozy version, try adding a splash of peach schnapps to the cobbler filling.
Another classic Southern side dish, fried apples are the perfect accompaniment to beer can chicken. The sweetness of the apples pairs well with the savory chicken, and the crispy texture adds a nice contrast. For a healthier option, try baking the apples instead of frying them.
Yes, another peach cobbler recipe, but trust us, it's worth it. This version has a flaky, buttery crust that will have you coming back for seconds. For a twist, try adding a sprinkle of ginger to the cobbler filling.
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Praline Pecan Cinnamon Rolls
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Instant Vanilla Pudding, Rapid Rise
This recipe combines two Southern favorites – pecan pralines and cinnamon rolls. The gooey, caramelized pecans add a sweet and nutty crunch to the soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls. For a decadent treat, drizzle some melted butter and brown sugar on top.
Another classic Southern dish, candied yams are a must-try with your beer can chicken. The sweetness of the yams balances out the savory chicken, and the marshmallow topping adds a fun twist. For a healthier version, try using maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
If you're a pie lover, then you have to try this Southern peach pie. The combination of flaky crust and juicy peaches is simply irresistible. For a fun twist, add a splash of bourbon to the peach filling.
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Southern Honey Bourbon Glazed Ham
Main Ingredients: Bone In Ham, Honey, Bourbon, Brown Sugar, Onion Powder
Looking to switch things up from chicken? This honey bourbon glazed ham is a great alternative. The sweetness of the glaze complements the savory beer can chicken perfectly. For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze.
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Southern Bourbon Cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Sugar, Eggs, Flour, Cinnamon, Baking Powder
This moist and flavorful bourbon cake is a great dessert option to pair with your beer can chicken. The hint of bourbon adds a unique flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Top it off with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Another classic Southern dessert, this sweet potato pie is a must-try. The creamy sweet potato filling pairs well with the flaky crust and is the perfect way to end your beer can chicken dinner. For a healthier option, try using coconut oil instead of butter in the crust.
If you're not a fan of pie, then this sweet potato cake is a great alternative. The warm spices and creamy sweet potato frosting make for a delicious and unique dessert. Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans on top for some crunch.
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Perfect Cinnamon Rolls – Harvest Cinnamon Rolls
Main Ingredients: Milk, Warm Water, Pure Vanilla Extract, Butter, Eggs
These harvest cinnamon rolls are the perfect accompaniment to your beer can chicken dinner. The warm and gooey cinnamon rolls are topped with a creamy pumpkin frosting that will have you reaching for more. For an extra indulgent treat, add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top.
These candied sweet potatoes are a delicious and unique side dish to try with your beer can chicken. The sweetness of the brown sugar and the crunch of the pecans make for a perfect pairing with the tender chicken. For a healthier option, try using coconut sugar instead of brown sugar.
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Southern Hummingbird Bundt Cake!
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Baking Soda, Salt, Sugar, Cinnamon
This hummingbird bundt cake is a Southern classic and a must-try with your beer can chicken. The combination of pineapple, bananas, and pecans creates a moist and flavorful cake that will have you going back for more. Top it off with a cream cheese frosting for the perfect finishing touch.
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Southern Cornbread – Southern Skillet Cornbread
Main Ingredients: Butter, Yellow Cornmeal, Flour, Baking Soda, Salt
No Southern meal is complete without some cornbread, and this skillet cornbread is a great option to pair with your beer can chicken. The crispy edges and fluffy center make for a delicious and satisfying side dish. For a twist, try adding some jalapenos and cheddar cheese to the batter.
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Best Ever Southern Peach Cobbler
Main Ingredients: Peaches, Granulated Sugar, Light Brown Sugar, Ground
Last but not least, we have another peach cobbler recipe, but trust us, this one is the best ever. The combination of juicy peaches, flaky crust, and a crumbly topping is simply irresistible. For an extra kick, add a splash of amaretto to the peach filling.
Why Southern Kitchen Cinnamon Rolls are the Best
The Perfect Balance of Sweetness
One of the defining features of Southern kitchen cinnamon rolls is their perfect balance of sweetness. The dough itself is not overly sweet, allowing the flavors of butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar to shine through. And let's not forget about the rich and creamy cream cheese frosting that takes these rolls to the next level. It's not too thick or too sweet, making it the perfect topping for the warm and fluffy rolls.
The Secret Ingredient: Buttermilk
While many cinnamon roll recipes call for regular milk, Southern kitchen cinnamon rolls use buttermilk. This tangy and slightly acidic liquid helps to activate the yeast and adds a subtle tanginess to the dough. It also adds a richness and depth of flavor that can't be achieved with regular milk. Trust us, once you try a cinnamon roll made with buttermilk, you'll never go back.
Made with Love and Tradition
Southern kitchen cinnamon rolls are not just a recipe, they are a labor of love and tradition. Many families have been making these rolls for years, passing down the recipe from generation to generation. The process of making the dough, rolling it out, and adding the perfect amount of filling is a cherished tradition that brings families together. And when you take that first bite of a warm, homemade cinnamon roll, you can taste the love and tradition in every bite.
Our Favorite Southern Kitchen Cinnamon Roll Recipe
Now that you know why Southern kitchen cinnamon rolls are the best, it's time to try our favorite recipe. This recipe combines all the elements that make these rolls so irresistible. From the tangy buttermilk dough to the perfectly spiced filling and creamy frosting, this recipe will have you coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds).
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Ingredients:
1 cup buttermilk
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup light brown sugar
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
In a small saucepan, heat the buttermilk until it reaches a temperature of 110-115 degrees Fahrenheit. Pour the warm buttermilk into a large mixing bowl and sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is activated and becomes frothy.
Add in the sugar, melted butter, salt, and egg to the mixing bowl with the yeast mixture. Mix until well combined.
Slowly add in the flour, ½ cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Once the dough comes together and is no longer sticky, knead it on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
While the dough is rising, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon to make the filling.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log shape. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 equal slices.
Place the slices in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the cinnamon rolls for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
While the rolls are baking, mix together the cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to make the frosting.
Once the rolls are done baking, let them cool for 5 minutes before spreading the frosting on top. Serve warm and enjoy!