Classic Sugar Snails (Cinnamon Sugar Rolls)
Also known as cinnamon rolls or “snails” for their spiral shape, these sweet, sticky buns are a beloved treat across many cultures. Here’s a traditional yeasted version.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
· 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
· 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
· ½ cup granulated sugar
· 2 large eggs, room temperature
· ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
· 1 tsp salt
· 4-4½ cups all-purpose flour
For the Filling:
· ¾ cup packed brown sugar
· 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
· ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Topping (Optional):
· ¼ cup heavy cream or milk (poured over before baking)
· Simple icing (½ cup powdered sugar + 1-2 tbsp milk)
Instructions
- Make the Dough:
· Dissolve yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let sit 5-10 minutes until frothy.
· In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine yeast mixture, sugar, eggs, melted butter, and salt.
· Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms.
· Knead 5-7 minutes by hand (or with dough hook 3-4 minutes) until smooth and elastic.
· Place in greased bowl, cover, and let rise in warm place 1-2 hours until doubled.
- Prepare Filling & Assemble:
· Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in small bowl.
· Punch down dough and roll into a 16×21-inch rectangle on floured surface.
· Spread softened butter evenly over dough, then sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture.
· Tightly roll up from long side, pinch seam to seal.
- Cut & Second Rise:
· Cut into 12-15 equal slices (about 1.5 inches thick).
· Place in greased 9×13 baking dish or round pan, leaving space between.
· Cover and let rise 30-45 minutes until puffy.
· Optional: Pour cream/milk over rolls before baking for extra moisture.
- Bake:
· Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
· Bake 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
· Cool 10 minutes before icing.
Quick “Cheater” Sugar Snails (Using Puff Pastry):
Perfect when you want them fast!
· 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
· 3 tbsp butter, softened
· ¼ cup granulated sugar
· 1 tsp cinnamon
· Egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water)
Method:
- Roll pastry slightly.
- Spread with butter, sprinkle sugar-cinnamon.
- Roll up, slice, place on baking sheet.
- Brush with egg wash, sprinkle extra sugar.
- Bake at 400°F for 15-18 minutes.
Swedish “Kanelsnegle” Variation:
· Add ½ tsp cardamom to dough
· Filling: butter, sugar, cinnamon, and chopped almonds
· Pearl sugar sprinkled on top before baking
Tips for Perfect Snails:
· Don’t over-flour: Dough should be tacky but not sticky.
· Sharp knife: Use dental floss or very sharp knife to cut clean spirals.
· Fresh cinnamon: For best flavor.
· Make ahead: Refrigerate shaped rolls overnight, bake in morning.
· Serve warm: They’re at their best fresh from the oven.
Whether you call them sugar snails, cinnamon rolls, or kanelsnegle, these sweet spirals are perfect for breakfast, fika (Swedish coffee break), or any time you need a comforting treat. Enjoy the heavenly aroma that will fill your kitchen!