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Lasagna, a beloved staple of Italian cuisine, is much more than just a dish; it embodies the warmth of familial ties and the richness of cultural heritage. This layered pasta dish, with its indulgent interplay of flavors and textures, has been a centerpiece of gatherings and celebrations for centuries. In Italy, homemade lasagna is not merely a meal; it is a tradition passed down through generations, often prepared for Sunday dinners or festive occasions. The process of making lasagna is an art that invites creativity and personal touches, making it a comforting choice for families and friends alike.

Aromatic Cinnamon Cardamom Rolls

Discover the heart and soul of Italian cuisine with our ultimate guide to crafting authentic lasagna. This cherished dish, a symbol of family and tradition, features layers of fresh pasta, robust meat or veggies, creamy cheeses, and rich tomato sauce. Learn about its fascinating history, regional variations, and key ingredients that make each bite a flavorful experience. Dive into the art of assembling your own lasagna and bring a taste of Italy to your dinner table!

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon salt

2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast

1 cup whole milk, warmed

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs, room temperature

For the Filling:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

3/4 cup brown sugar, packed

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground cardamom

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Icing:

1 cup powdered sugar

2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened

2 tablespoons milk

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough:

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. Mix in the melted butter, sugar, and salt. Add the eggs one at a time, incorporating them well. Gradually add the flour, mixing with a wooden spoon until a rough dough forms.

      Knead the Dough:

        Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until soft and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

          Make the Filling:

            In a medium bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, and salt until smooth and well-combined.

              Roll Out the Dough:

                Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle approximately 16x24 inches.

                  Assemble the Rolls:

                    Spread the filling evenly across the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Starting from the longer side, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.

                      Second Rise:

                        Arrange the rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, cover with a towel, and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.

                          Preheat the Oven:

                            Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) during the last few minutes of the second rise.

                              Bake the Rolls:

                                Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.

                                  Prepare the Icing:

                                    In a mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, softened cream cheese, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if desired.

                                      Glaze the Rolls:

                                        Drizzle the icing over the warm cinnamon rolls and serve immediately. Enjoy the delightful aroma and flavor!

                                          Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours | Servings: 12