When it comes to breakfast and brunch, few treats are as beloved as cinnamon rolls. These sweet, gooey pastries are a staple in many households, offering a warm and comforting start to the day. However, the traditional way of making cinnamon rolls isn't the only path to deliciousness. There's a unique recipe out there that adds a surprising twist to this classic favorite — mashed potatoes!

At first glance, the idea of incorporating mashed potatoes into cinnamon roll dough might seem a bit off - putting. After all, we're used to thinking of cinnamon rolls as being made with the usual suspects like flour, yeast, sugar, and butter. But this secret ingredient brings a whole new dimension to the table.

Let's start by understanding the role of mashed potatoes in the cinnamon roll dough. Mashed potatoes act as a natural tenderizer. They have a high moisture content, which helps keep the dough soft and moist. This results in cinnamon rolls that are incredibly fluffy and have a longer shelf - life. Unlike some traditional recipes where the rolls can dry out quickly, the addition of mashed potatoes ensures that your cinnamon rolls stay fresh and delicious for longer.

Another benefit of using mashed potatoes is that they add a subtle, earthy undertone to the cinnamon rolls. While you won't be able to taste the potatoes once the rolls are baked, they contribute to the overall flavor profile in a way that enhances the sweetness of the cinnamon and the richness of the buttery filling. It's like a hidden flavor boost that takes your cinnamon rolls from good to great.

Now, let's talk about the process of making these unique cinnamon rolls. First, you'll need to prepare your mashed potatoes. Make sure they are well - mashed and free of any lumps. You can use regular potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor twist. Once your mashed potatoes are ready, it's time to start making the dough.

In a large bowl, combine your flour, yeast, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add the mashed potatoes to the dry ingredients, along with some warm milk and melted butter. Mix everything together until you form a soft, sticky dough. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This kneading process is crucial as it develops the gluten in the flour, giving your cinnamon rolls their structure.

After kneading, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in size. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air bubbles and roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. The thickness of the rectangle will depend on how thick you want your cinnamon rolls to be.

Next, it's time to make the filling. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Spread this mixture evenly over the rolled - out dough. Then, starting from the long end, roll up the dough tightly into a log. Use a sharp knife to cut the log into equal - sized pieces, about 1 - 1.5 inches thick. Place these pieces in a greased baking pan, leaving some space between each roll for them to expand as they bake.

Let the rolls rise again for about 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for about 20 - 25 minutes or until they are golden brown on top. While the rolls are baking, you can prepare the icing. Simply mix powdered sugar, milk, and a little vanilla extract until you get a smooth, drizzling consistency.

Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before drizzling the icing over the top. The warm, gooey cinnamon rolls with the sweet icing are an absolute delight. You can enjoy them on their own, with a cup of coffee or tea, or even share them with your family and friends.

This cinnamon roll recipe with mashed potatoes is a game - changer. It offers a unique and delicious alternative to the traditional way of making cinnamon rolls. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is definitely worth a try. So, the next time you're in the mood for a delicious breakfast or brunch treat, give these cinnamon rolls with mashed potatoes a go. You won't be disappointed!