Ann Sather's Cinnamon Roll has become a beloved classic at the Ann Sather restaurant in Chicago, IL. For decades, people have been lining up for a taste of these warm, sweet, and deliciously spiced rolls. Even though they look like your average cinnamon roll, one bite is all it takes to experience the unique blend of flavors that make this dish so special.
In a small bowl, combine the warm water and 1 teaspoon of sugar.
Stir in the active dry yeast until it is dissolved. Let sit for 10 minutes, or until it is foamy on top.
Make the dough
In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup of milk, melted butter, sugar, salt, and the activated yeast mixture.
Slowly add in the flour a cup at a time until it is all combined and the dough is no longer sticky.
Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 minutes. Place in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap and let rise for 1 hour.
Make the filling
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until it is smooth.
Roll out the dough
Take the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
Roll into an 18x12-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the surface of the dough.
Roll up into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces.
Bake the rolls
Place the rolls onto a lightly greased baking sheet. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
Bake for 25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown. Let cool before frosting.
Make the Frosting
In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of milk. If the frosting is too thick, add more milk to thin it out.
Spread the frosting over the cooled cinnamon rolls.
Notes
If your dough is too sticky, add more flour a cup at time until it is no longer sticky.
Make sure you let your rolls cool completely before adding the frosting; otherwise the frosting will melt into the rolls.
Make sure you don't over bake your rolls or they will be dry.
If you want a more decadent roll, add some chopped nuts to the cinnamon filling before rolling it up.
For an extra sweet treat drizzle some melted chocolate over your cinnamon rolls before serving!