Announcements, Recipe

cinnamon swirl buns + so much news

Friends, we have so much catching up to do. I promised before I went to the Bahamas that when I got back, I’d have some cool stuff to share, but somehow it is over four weeks later and we are really overdue for a chat. Plus, it’s Tax Day and I’ve been moping around all week with my pockets inside out since I was presented with a bill with an impossible number of zeros after it, and hey, wouldn’t we all rather focus on the cheerful stuff? Of course. So without further ado:

living room teeny tiny kitchen eeee!

The Smitten Kitchen is moving: Well, not urls, thank god (though in a fit of obsessiveness last week, I decided at once to go on a domain shopping spree and you can now get here via smittenkitchen.org, smittenkitchen.info or smittenkitchen.net. Wish I could go on normal people shopping sprees, like for shoes.). But as I have alluded to — namely through griping about the packing and the sorting and the boxes, and lord, the boxes — we’ve found a new apartment and we’re moving this weekend. And we can’t wait. I lived in the East Village when I first moved to NYC in 2000, and am thrilled to have found an excuse to move back. Perhaps I’ll even check out this “Trader Joes” you kids are always going on about!

But who cares about the neighborhood? Let’s get down to the brass tacks. That sound you hear? It’s the sky opening up and the angels singing in the new smitten kitchen, as there is a large white machine whose sole purpose is to wash dishes for us. I can barely handle all of this excitement at once. Alex, who we all know deals with the brunt of the dishes here, is already wondering whether we can just pack up this week’s dirty dishes and just wash ’em when we arrive this weekend. The jury is still out on that one.

So that’s the good news. The bad news? The kitchen is smaller. Oh, I know those of you with your expansive kitchens with yards of counter space and cabinets aplenty think that our current kitchen was pitifully small, but I’m telling you, for New York City, it was nothing to complain about. It was downright dreamy and I told it so all of the time. The new kitchen is a lot more of what you’d expect on this island, and I’m not going to lie: I’m terrified. Does this mean no more wedding cakes? What about truffle dredging stations? But I know I’ll eventually adapt; it is my way. Besides, the floor is adorably checkered and there’s a nice little window — I’m warming to it already.

uh-oh

The Smitten Kitchen is going to cow country. People, it has killed me to keep this from you all of these months because I could not be more excited if … I just couldn’t be more excited. A few days after this weekend’s move, Alex and I are packing our blue jeans and our kicks (Note to self: Buy “kicks”!) into suitcases and heading out to visit The Pioneer Woman on her ranch, and stay in her Lodge. Yes, that ranch. Yes, in that Lodge. Ree and I hope to spend the weekend cooking up a storm, city versus country style while Alex is out in the field, no doubt getting hazed by her two boys for his City Slicker ways. There will be pictures. There butter by the pound. And considering that the closest I’ve been to cows, perhaps ever, is that blurry picture you see above from upstate New York — blurry because I was skittering away because, wow, cows are tall and kinda scary up close — this trip should be a source of endless amusement for my friends and family, and hopefully you as well. We cannot wait.

cinnamon buns with cream cheese glaze

There are buns in ovens. It’s true! After pining over Molly Wizenberg’s Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze for more than a year now, I couldn’t take it anymore and baked them up this weekend (when I was supposed to be cleaning out my closet). Hot damn, people. Do not wait as long as I did, you’ll be filled with regret and …

Yes, I am dodging the subject again; burying the lede, if you will. There is, you see, an actual bun in the Smitten Kitchen oven. As much as I have tried to deny it and as much as it has even now really not sunk in yet, evidence has mounted since the beginning of this year — in the form of incomparable adorableness on ultrasound screens, the sudden appeal of stretchy-waist jeans and an incessant need to nap the days away — that we’ve got a wee little person on the way. I’m due in September, and we’re pretty stoked.

dough, doubledspreading the buttersprinkling the brown sugar + cinnamonrolling the bunscinnamon buns, rolled and readysliced, swirled bunscinnamon buns, slicedcinnamon buns, ready to doublecinnamon buns, a-bakin'cinnamon buns, coolingicing with cream cheese frostingmessy is good

[P.S. You still get cinnamon buns, I mean, when you make your own. We didn’t save you any.]

One year ago: Caramelized Shallots (Do yourself a favor and make these today. They are that good.)

Cinnamon Swirl Buns with Cream Cheese Glaze
Adapted from Molly Wizenberg’s recipe in Bon Appetit, March 2008

Makes 18 buns. Note I did not say “servings”. That’s between you and your buns.

Psst, update 11/15/13: These days, my favorite bun dough is this newer one. It yields 12 taller, more tender and rich buns. Notes are included at the bottom about how to use it for classic cinnamon buns, or apple-cinnamon buns.

Dough
1 cup whole milk
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 1/2 cups (or more) unbleached all purpose flour, divided
1/2 cup sugar
1 large egg
2 1/4 teaspoons rapid-rise or instant yeast (from 1 envelope yeast)
1 teaspoon salt
Nonstick vegetable oil spray

Filling
3/4 cup (packed) golden brown sugar
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
Pinch of salt

Glaze
4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
1 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For dough: Combine milk and butter in glass measuring cup. Microwave on high until butter melts and mixture is just warmed to 120°F to 130°F, about 30 to 45 seconds. Pour into bowl of stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment. Add 1 cup flour, sugar, egg, yeast, and salt. Beat on low speed 3 minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape down sides of bowl. Add additional 2 1/2 cups flour. Beat on low until flour is absorbed and dough is sticky, scraping down sides of bowl. If dough is very sticky, add more flour by tablespoonfuls until dough begins to form ball and pulls away from sides of bowl. Turn dough out onto lightly floured work surface. Knead until smooth and elastic, adding more flour if sticky, about 8 minutes. (You may also use a KitchenAid’s dough hook for this process.) Form into ball.

Lightly oil large bowl with nonstick spray. Transfer dough to bowl, turning to coat. Cover bowl with plastic wrap, then kitchen towel. Let dough rise in warm draft-free area until doubled in volume, about 2 hours.

For filling: Mix brown sugar, cinnamon and pinch of salt in medium bowl.

Press down dough. Transfer to floured work surface. Roll out to 15×11-inch rectangle. Spread butter over dough, leaving 1/2-inch border. Sprinkle cinnamon mixture evenly over butter. Starting at the longer side, roll dough into log, pinching gently to keep it rolled up. With seam side down, trim ends straight if they are uneven (we baked them in a ramekin, incapable of discarding such deliciousness) cut remaining dough crosswise with thin sharp knife (a good serrated worked well here) into 18 equal slices (each about 1/2 to 3/4 inch wide).

Spray two 9-inch square glass baking dishes (an 8-inch square metal pan worked just fine, too) with nonstick spray. Divide rolls between baking dishes, arranging cut side up (there will be almost no space between rolls). Cover baking dishes with plastic wrap, then kitchen towel. Let dough rise in warm draft-free area until almost doubled in volume, 40 to 45 minutes, though yours, like mine, may take longer. Don’t skimp on the double-rising time.

Position rack in center of oven and preheat to 375°F. Bake rolls until tops are golden, about 20 minutes. Remove from oven and invert immediately onto rack. Cool 10 minutes. Turn rolls right side up.

For glaze: Combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla in medium bowl. Using electric mixer, beat until smooth. Spread glaze on rolls. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Note: These buns were best the day they were baked. The second day, they were on the tough side. If you anticipate wanting them over a few days, glaze them to order, heating the buns beforehand to soften them up.

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1,205 comments on cinnamon swirl buns + so much news

  1. DEB! I’ve been lurking for quite a while and (shamefully) have never commented, even when I had reason to! (see: out-of-this-world blondies, etc) Anyhoodle, CONGRATS to you! How exciting. All the best. PS: You should immediately register for the tiniest chef’s outfit money can buy, because it would be adorable.

  2. Kai

    BEYOND jealous of your dishwasher! I thought dishwashers in NYC apartments were just a fairy tale!

    You definitely WILL adapt to your new space. I have the TEENY TINYEST NYC kitchen and I’ve been able to cook and experiment just fine. It’s amazing what surfaces you find to work on.

  3. Oh my GOSH! This is almost too much for me to handle.
    Congratulations, congratulations! What a lucky, well-fed kid you will have!

    (Also, congrats on the move. And welcome (back) to the neighborhood!)

  4. Nicole

    CONGRATULATIONS!!!!! Such wonderful news!! Hope you’ve a healthy, EASY pregnancy and all that. Babies are such a treasure . . . . I know as I’ve two and a newborn! Who needs sleep anyway?!

    Hugs to the three of you.

  5. SOOO excited about your news: the bun in the oven!!! And, I’m nearly as excited that you are going to the RANCH!! Happy moving, traveling, cooking, and baby brewing!

  6. Sarah

    Congrats on the new digs! I hope the move goes as painlessly as possible. And can I just say, from a purely selfish point of view that I cannot wait, absolutely cannot wait, to see what yumminess you and PW come up with for us readers?? Have a fantabulous time!

  7. Congrats on all the excellent news. I am a firm believer in dishwashers increasing quality of life (you think I am kidding but I have said this to my husband many times) – to the point where I have dealt with tiny kitchens where the extra island was in the livingroom – but it was all worth it because the kitchens had dishwashers.

  8. Jen

    Yay, yay and more yay!!! Can’t wait to see you on the ranch and in the lodge– it looks like such a fun place to visit! And so many congrats on the “bun”– I can’t wait to see your journey through this process!!

  9. Tracie

    wow that is a lot of news….you and Ree together two of my favorites….Bakerella survived so I think you will be able to manage your close cow encounters just fine….just watch out… apparently they are really close….like on the porch close…also can’t wait until the smitten kitchen has to manage a finicky eater…I have two….should be great news for makers of child friendly cuisine everywhere! Congrats and safe travels!

  10. merrypetal

    Congratulations! New baby and home, what a perfect dovetail. Lovely to hear all these good things. Happy travels to the farm, look forward to the photos and updates. I’m another lurker that enjoys every RSS feed in my inbox from you. Thank you for being there!

  11. Nicole M

    Wow, is this the single most exciting post ever? Congrats on the new place, dishwasher, and little bun and happy travels!

  12. Mazel tov!!!! On the dishwasher AND the bun in the oven. I’m due at the end of September, so I’m hoping our cravings run the same route (so I can get some good recipes).

    I read all the time, rarely comment — but LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this site. Again, congratulations to you and Alex!

  13. kim

    I am thrilled that you are going to Ree’s! You two are my top two sites and imagining you two in the same kitchen sounds like a lot of fun. I look forward to hearing more about it, from both of you!

  14. unionmaidn

    Congratulations! And especially congrats to your child, of whom I am incredibly jealous because of the yummy foods s/he will get to eat as s/he grows. God bless my mom and Hamburger Surprise, but I sure would have loved to have me some potato gratin or caramel fudge crackers when I was seven.

  15. Kim

    Congratulations on all your good news. The “bun” will love the black-and-white floor as babe cruises around picking up stray bits of whatever goodness you’re cooking up . . . am I getting ahead of myself? I have a 9-month-old so that’s where we are right now.

  16. Becky

    Delurking to say…what a THRILLING POST! In every sense of the word! Contratulations on little one on the way, and I cannot WAIT to see what you an Ree cook up. The photos of the trip from both of you will be worth the wait.

  17. Jamie

    I’ve been a fan for over a year but have yet to comment. Your recipes are amazing! Congratulations on the new baby on the way. Your life is about to change dramatically, but for the better! Have fun at the ranch with Ree! Can’t wait to make these cinnamon rolls.

  18. Oh that is so exciting! I am so happy for both of you. Big congratulations. That is going to be one well fed kid! I love reading Ree’s blog and will totally look forward to vicariously sharing in your fun this weekend.

  19. Hi Deb — I’m another one of those lurking-for-a-while-but-never-commented. Your website is great and has really inspired me to try so many new things in the kitchen. Congratulations to you!

  20. Congratulations! Babies are such joy. I was so proud of myself when I realized I was cooking 3-4 times a week when my son was 3 weeks old. You’ll probably beat the pants off that achievement!

    The dishwasher will make up for the smaller kitchen. Now you have somewhere to stash the dirty dishes.

  21. wow – so much news in one post! First, congrats on the move and I totally understand the kitchen situation. Your new place looks about as big as mine (although we live in DC, but still). I’ve lived in cities so often that after a while, you begin to think that small kitchens are the norm and it works somehow.

    Second – how cool! I’m totaly jealous you’re going to hang with PW. Take lots of great pictures and watch out for the cows in the yard.

    Third – these buns look awesome!!

    Okay, I’m done now. :)

  22. Sarah

    Oh my gosh! I just reread the post (to actually read the recipe, not just the news about the move and PW) and realized that I completely missed the pregnancy news. Big, big, congrats! :) Mazel tov!

  23. Chris

    okay. long time reader, first time commenter.

    Congrats on your wee one! Please let me share something I wish someone had shared with me earlier. I’m due any day now, and was getting unbearably uncomfortable. All of my girlfriends said that’s just how the last month is.

    This is a lie. Go get a pregnancy massage. I had one on Saturday, and it’s the closest thing to a miracle I’ve ever experienced. It’s also the main reason I’m able to find the patience not to go out into the yard and do jumping jacks until the kid falls out.

  24. How exciting! New kitchen and new family member! The (edible) buns look fantastic. Can’t wait to try them. I’ve never mentioned, but SK is my first go-to blog for yummy recipes. I tried your pita recipe the other day, and it was yummy, but I need to invest in a (food-grade) mister. Somehow I don’t think the Home Depot sprayers will do. ;)

  25. Oh my…. Congratulations, this is so exciting! It’s so great you were able to move now, and you even have lots of time to prepare the baby’s room…
    This is going to be a happy baby… :-)

  26. Eileen

    oh my! So many congratulations!! You are so cute with the buns and your bun and it’s just so much fun! And I so look forward to reading about your adventures with PW!

  27. I’m convinced you’ll manage just fine in that new kitchen of yours. Here’s to all of your happy news – wishing you and your growing family only the best during this exciting time!

  28. Alexis

    I adore this blog and have never commented before, but I just felt so compelled to say CONGRATULATIONS on that bun in the oven!

  29. Kelly S.

    omg my two fav. cooking bloggers together!! I can not WAIT!! and mm, those buns look good. . .
    Any ideas on what one could replace all that cinnamon with when you have people who don’t really like cinnamon…you know, a little is ok, but ALL cinnamon…not so much.

  30. Melanie

    OMG! You have so much news for us. I am SO excited that you are going to Ree’s! I love her & I love you. This is a perfect match for some mighty fine cooking. I am from the south & we LOVE butter down here so bake us up something yummy. I know that you are excited about a dishwasher. I would take a dishwasher and have a small kitchen in a second. (thank God I didn’t have to make that choice) Congrats too on the new baby. Can’t wait to see what you cook up next week. Have fun. (I am SO jealous:)

  31. Juliana

    Congratulations!! I had a feeling I wasn’t the only pregnant one around here, your menus are practically magnets for cravings lol. You’ll have to start looking up recpies for homemade baby food even we would eat! your new apt is awesome and after a couple years without a dishwasher, I totally understand your love and adoration for the big white box in your space. well congrats again and thanks for the buns, those will be perfect for when the family comes a callin’ in the next couple weeks.

  32. Aaaaah! So much! Congrats on your bun in the oven! So exciting! And I am so jealous that you get to go to the Lodge! And you get to cook there with PW! Can I come?

  33. Kate F

    these buns look phenomenal! and congrats on all your news…we will soon be neighbors as i live not too far from the EV. good luck w/ the move!

  34. You’re going to the ranch and will be staying at the lodge!!!?? I can’t believe it. This blog world is crazy! And so much fun. Thanks for letting us all share in your adventures.

    Congrats on the move!

  35. Julie

    Congrats! I look forward to baby food and kid-friendly recipes. My daughter is three months old (so I’ll be making some purees for her starting this summer), and my son is in the throes of pickiness. Good luck to you!

  36. Your Sister

    I already knew about the “bun” aka my Niecephew, but this post still managed to bring happy tears to my eyes. xxoo

  37. Amy

    Ahh, congratulations on everything!! This post was like Christmas morning: one surprisingly lovely present after another! I’m excited and happy for you :-)

  38. Congratulations! How wonderful! And I am totally jealous at your going to visit Pioneer Woman; yours and hers are my new favorite blogs and I think when I see the pics from your visit on either of your blogs, my head will simply explode. Hope it’s a great trip!

  39. So much news! I almost missed your bun in the oven comment because I was so in shock that my two favorite food bloggers would be in the same place at the same time so close to me … well a day or so drive. I contemplated going all Lisa Nowak and grabbing a diaper and hitting the road.

    Many congrats though.

    Oh – and I made your hummus and rosemary flatbread this weekend. ZOMG! So de-lish. Total crowd pleaser.

  40. Jessica J

    congrats, deb!! can’t wait to see what your cravings inspire for the site (haha).

    have fun with the pioneer woman – love her blog and can’t wait to see what you 2 collaborate on!

  41. Congrats on the little one, the move and I’m jealous about the Lodge trip.}:P

    Your new kitchen looks to be about the size of mine, only I don’t have a dishwaher!}:P

  42. oma

    congrats! as a fellow pregnant lady due in september, those cinnamon buns look like the perfect way to fulfill the sugar cravings i’ve been having. enjoy settling into the new place and getting ready for the little one.

  43. Oh big congrats, sweetie – on everything! Very very happy for you and Alex on all fronts (the dishwasher must outweigh the lack of space, no?). I’m wishing you two (three!) health and happiness (and solid sleep). xxoo

  44. I knew it! It may be because I’m knee deep in the “childbearing-and-little-kids-stage” myself but everytime someone mentions they have news it’s my default thought. LOL

    Congratulations and be sure to eek out all that wonderful cooking, photography and couple time you can right now. There’s no turning back and the future with a little one is a blessed adventure but one thing it’s guaranteed to be – that is different.

  45. RA

    My thought process while I read through this post:

    “Okay, already knew about the new apartment … OOH, those posts from the ranch will ROCK! … Yes, cows are totally scary up close … BABY! Gaaaaah!”

    That is to say, congratulations! I commend you for not dangling the news at us without actually disclosing; how did you restrain yourself?! I am so excited for you! And seriously, how cute is it to announce a bun in the oven with cinnamon buns? Way too cute.

    Eeeeee!

  46. Congrats on “the bun”, and the move!
    Your new kitchen looks to be about the same size as mine, except I have a double welled sink, and no dishwasher… The floor is super cute, and the window could be home to a window box herb garden!!
    As for the cinnamon buns, they look soooo delicious! The dough ratios look a lot like my grandma’s bun recipe (except for the egg)- can’t wait to try these out!!

  47. So many reasons to celebrate and so much exciting news–CONGRATULATIONS, on all fronts! Enjoy the new apt, enjoy the country, enjoy being able to eat as much as you want and not worry about the weight gain!

  48. Amy

    Oh my goodness. So much great news in one post. I feel like my worlds are colliding. Can’t wait to see you and Ree cooking it out. And congrats on the little one! And the move. Send some of that my way, will ya?

  49. Congratulations on the bun in the oven, and the buns that were in the oven (but now are all gone…guess what I’ll be making some weekend morning sometime soon!). I’m interested to see what unique “cravings” recipes end up on your blog! :)

  50. Jesse

    Yay! Congratulations! I am due in September, too (9/21, though of course it’s a moveable feast) so I sympathize with the napping and the stretchy clothing stuff. Best of luck on your move :)

  51. wow that’s a lot of good news! i love babies, cinnamon buns, molly wizenberg, the pioneer woman, smitten kitchen, AND dishwashers, so all of your good news is making me very happy and hungry and envious. congrats congrats CONGRATS! and can’t wait to see what you and ree cook up together!!

    !!!

  52. Elise

    Congratulations!!! So much wonderful bun news! Woo-hoo!!!!! I hope you’re feeling great and enjoying watching your belly grow. Yay!!

  53. Allison

    Congratulations on the place and baby!!! I am also soon to find myself with a machine to do dishes instead of the husband :)

  54. (another) Kathryn

    CONGRATULATIONS!! I just saw it on Facebook but thought it might be less creepy to say so here, haha. That’s so exciting! All the best, really. =)

  55. Kristen

    I have been reading your blog(s) since you were single and searching and way before you ever met Alex. And have been (semi) patiently waiting for this exciting news!! Congrats, and I hope you update more about it and not sneakily fit it in at the end of a post that has other exciting news :)

  56. Nishta

    wow, wow, wow! big congratulations to both of you, and both sets of sk parents, who are undoubtedly thrilled to have a grandbaby on the way!

    any odd cravings we may get the chance to see in upcoming posts?

  57. Lyra

    Oh my goodness! Congrats on the dishwasher! Congrats on the new place! And most especially, congratulations on the non-cinnamon bun in the oven!

  58. Mary

    “SQUEEE!!” A smitten baby! I’m expecting my second grandbaby in July and share your excitement! Loving hint: get the best baby swing you can find, with lots of gadgets for baby to look at, and park it right outside the kitchen door. Result: lots of hours to cook with happy baby playing/sleeping nearby. The dishwasher is your new best friend! Make Alex empty it. Congratulations to you and your family.

  59. Congratulations on the wee one on the way! Exciting news all around!!
    (And thank you for posting this cinnamon bun recipe and reminding me that I need to try it out)

  60. Jen

    Congratulations! If I ever have a bun in the oven I think I’ll bake some buns and make a few bun jokes to ease into announcing it too! Sooooo exciting. And congratulations on moving back to a favourite neighbourhood! Thanks for the recipe too!

  61. 1) When I moved out of law school housing in NYC (in the E. Village, and I adore it too, although I had a corner instead of a kitchen) the one REQUIREMENT I had for a kitchen was a dishwasher. You won’t regret it.

    2) When I lived in a lovely apartment down the street from Dylan’s Candy Bar with a balcony! but a teeny teeny kitchen, I made a wedding cake for a friend that was covered in poured ganache. It just meant that my dining table was also covered in poured ganache. You can make it work.

    3) I am incredibly envious of your trip to the Lodge! This is me turning a bright shade of kelly green.

  62. Susan

    Well, congratulations on it all!

    A kitchen with a dishwasher, no less! Well..good luck with that one. I practically wash the dishes before I wash the dishes! And only the dishes and silverware..everything else I do by hand because the DW will ruin the knives, the pans won’t fit, the wooden spoons-NO…yada yada. But, it’s a great place to rinse and stash’em (cuz there’s room to do so) while you’re busy.

    The pregnancy? I never felt better, hope you have as easy a preg-time as I did. And the baby? Endless joy and so fun..any work is so worth it! The move? Ugh.
    The trip? Can’t wait to see the pic’s.

  63. Congratulations on your move and the new addition to your family! I just had a baby girl three months ago and let me just say, motherhood/pregnancy is truly one of the most amazing things ever. Every dish you cook from here on out, you’ll probably say to yourself, “I can’t wait until he/she can eat this!!” :)

  64. Wow, so much news! Mazel tov a million times–on the move (and the dishwasher: this Brooklynite is insanely jealous), on the country visit, and most of all on the bun in the oven! Having a baby knocked me out of blogging for a while (he’s 2.5 now and I’m just getting back in the swing); I hope it doesn’t have the same effect on you.

  65. Felicity

    Yay! Congratulations all around! Just think of all the cupcakes and candies and buns you can bake for kindergarten parties! Oh joy!

  66. WOW!!! Congrats!!! I, of course read your blog all the time and feel like I know you so I am super excited for your new arrival. That is awesome. And I am so jealous you and the Pioneer Woman are going to cook up a storm this weekend. You get to go to that ranch and that lodge. Hope you guys have fun and I’ll be on pins and needles waiting to see what you guys cook up.

  67. Carrie

    Good God, woman, when you hold out on people, you really hold out!! Congratulations on the dishwasher! Congratulations on getting to meet PW (scratch Charlie’s belly for me!!!)! And congratulations on creating a li’l chef!! Woooooo!

  68. Collette

    Congratulations on the pregnancy! My husband and I were just talking last night about how intense the love is you feel for a child. He said, you know, I loved my parents but not like this. Of course that means that we’re destined to have a child that loves us like we loved our parents but no matter! It’s wonderful.

    And all the rest of the news is great too–I can’t wait to read about your trip to see the Pioneer Woman. Two of my favorite food blogs!

  69. Audrey

    My hand got a li “post!” happy.

    Congratulations – SO MUCH – on the move, on the bebe! and on going to The PDub’s place!

    This is all entirely too awesome! De-lurking (tho you have given me advice on a bake off before) just to say that, and to let you know I’m so happy for you (tho I don’t, really, *know you).

    Congrats again!

  70. Congrats on the little one Deb!! So exciting!! So it’s going to be SmittenKitchen + 1 from now on. I’m anticipating all kinds of fabulous baby/kid/munchkin friendly food in the years to come! :-)

  71. monica

    Oh – CONGRATULATIONS!!!! I am not sure what deserves a bigger congrats – the baby or the dishwasher!!! Seriously, the baby is wonderful news!

  72. Josephine

    Congrats on the little “bun” & the dishwasher. And how awesome is it to get to go to the ranch & the lodge & cook with Ree! I can’t wait to see the posts on PW and here.

  73. Holy smokes! That is some fabulous right there! Pioneer Woman, a new apartment and a new baby! I couldn’t be happier for my favorite food blogger and fellow New Yorker. May the East Village, the Midwest and the new baby bring you all the joy in the world. I look forward to experiencing it all along with you.

    And here I thought you were publishing your own cookbook or getting your own TV show. A baby! So much cooler and cuter.

  74. Jen

    Whoa. I’ve been reading you for eons, through multiple sites, and since pre-Alex. Congratulations to my favorite internet chef! Looking forward to seeing what you do with make-your-own-baby-food recipes…

  75. MF

    Long time reader, first time poster – OMG you’re going to visit the Pioneer Woman’s Ranch?!?! Recently got hooked on Ree’s blog – cannot wait to see the photos and stories and recipes that come out of that visit!

  76. Jaclyn

    I’m de-lurking after an eternity to wish you congratulations on everything! I’ve followed you since the smitten kitten days…and now you’re having you’re very own smitten kitty! And, by the way, I totally jealous about your trip to see Ree! I’d love to be a fly on the wall! Best wishes to you & Alex.

  77. melanie

    Oh, congrats congrats!

    And a question–any recommendations for how to make these a day ahead of time? Could the dough be refrigerated for awhile before the rolls are baked?

  78. hooray :) i got a sneaky suspension when you twittered you watched oprah for the first time in decades & the episode was dedicated to moms ;) congrats on a new season of life!!

  79. Congratulations! For the past few months I’ve had a sneaking suspicion that this news might be coming soon (I seem to be weirdly psychic about pregnancies….)! All the very besst to you and Alex in this very exciting time.

  80. JulieH

    1. Congrats! on the baby and the kitchen. If I recall, your previous place had neither dishwasher nor real counter space, nor a window – and it looks like you’re gaining all three! Dishwashers are wonderful things. It will permanently change the way you cook (though it may take a while to stop counting pots, dishes, and utensils per recipe). Definitely, bring it a box of dirty dishes to christen – it will sound so, so good as you unpack.

    2. I make cinnamon rolls for holidays, and once upon a time I had extra preserved lemon in the fridge. I minced it, and added some (maybe a tsp or two?) to the icing. It’s a bright, sunny happy addition and works really well with the cream cheese.

  81. deb

    WOW. Thank you so much, everyone. It’s really fun to finally have the cats out of their bags. It’s going to be a great summer.

    Oh, and of course I will try to make my own food when it is time. It’s like you don’t know me at all!

    Kelly — You could totally skip the cinnamon. If you like nutmeg, you could use a little instead. Or a scraped vanilla bean. Or a splash of almond extract. Or some orange zest. Have fun with it.

    Melanie — Yes. You can refrigerate a yeasted dough at any point in the process. You just need to bring it back to room temperature and pick up where you left off the next day. It got late when I made these, so I put the dough in to double overnight. Once it was back at room temperature the next morning, it was doubled perfectly and I finished the recipe.

  82. That is a ton of news in one post!!
    Congrats on the move!!
    Congrats on getting to see PW and visit her farm – I’m jealous!
    Big Congrats on the little one!! So exciting!

    And I am making these cinnamon rolls this weekend. Yummers.

  83. Hayley

    Congratulations!! I read your blog all the time, and normally I’m a lurker, but this is too good news to not say anything, so Yayyy!!! That is awesome.

  84. Congrats! I remember you saying around the third year of marriage and a bun-in-the-oven message waaaay back. I wondered if you were expecting because there were no body shots of you in the bahamas, and in one I thought I spied the beginnings of a bump plus the whole moving thing!

    It’s the best recipe you’ll ever bake; trust me.

    Yay!

  85. Carla Hinkle

    Hooray! If you figure out how to spend hours cooking whilst minding a young one, please let me know. I have 2 and I still haven’t.

    :-)

  86. MmeMcM

    Wowza! So much news in one post, I don’t think I can take it…cool new digs, a visit with Ree at The Lodge, and a wee one to boot. I hope that you feel great and continue to enjoy food during this time…alas, that was not the case pour moi. (But it was a great way to get my husband into a grocery store and the kitchen for 10+ weeks each pregnancy!) Congrats and best wishes!!!!

  87. aliz

    I knew it! Ever since you made a vague reference to food moodiness I have suspected this news (dedicated lurker and fan). I’m due in June and must admit this site kept me inspired when nothing sounded good. Though I am thankful that you did not post this bun recipe when I was having my cinnamon bread craving last month.
    Congrats!

  88. deb

    Abby — Haha! I was SO bloated in the Bahamas (1st trimester), I freaked out if anyone took a picture of me. I was/am such a primadonna. Thank god eventually the bloat gives away — the calm before the POPping storm, no doubt.

  89. Marie

    Oh my goodness!! I don’t usually comment, but I’ve been reading since you were at iVillage…this is so exciting!! Congratulations!!!!!!!!!! Thank you for sharing with us!

  90. Congratulations. Our bun is about to turn 1, and it’s a wild, fantastic ride. What with your new (old) neighborhood, your new dishwasher, and your new roommate, you’re going to have some year.

  91. CONGRATULATIONS! That’s awesome. Talk about burying the lede…. I’ve never seen it that buried and I do this for a living. So will we be getting some crazy craving recipes over the next 4 or 5 months?

  92. Congratulations! And congratulations! And congratulations! And have a wonderful time in the country with Ree! And thank you, thank you, thank you for that recipe–I’m 8 mos. pregnant at the moment and have had a wicked taste for cinnamon buns lately…

  93. I read your site and Ree’s and think you will have a fabulous time. Have fun flying while pregnant (not something I enjoyed.) Just think – a huge kitchen to play in, someone to cook for you and give you parenting advice and fabulous food and photos for all your loyal followers (just a hint!) Congrats and good luck from a mom of 3 under 4 who misses cooking real food.

  94. Congrats on all fronts! I went nearly my entire adult life without a dishwasher, until our new house came with one 7 years ago. After a couple years, it died and by nightfall that very day I had new one installed [marry a carpenter – you won’t be sorry] because the thought of doing dishes by hand made my toes all squinchy. You will most likely be pretty fond of the kid as well. We’ve had two of those, but when they moved out, we didn’t replace them. ;) And I am dying of jealousy that you get to go to Ree’s – can’t wait to see the pics & stories from that!

  95. Congrats! I’d been wondering about you being pregnant ever since you posted that picture of the giant pills to Flickr.

    Unrelated, does the new place have a full-size oven?

  96. Ok, long time no comment, but I needed to comment with this one, even after 175 comments!
    Congratulations, Deb!!! On everything really, the beautiful new apartment (because that living-dining room compensates for the smaller kitchen, and so does the dishwasher… you can always do prepwork and place things in the dining room table, that´s what I do when I run out of counterspace). But of course the biggest news is the bun in the oven, both types of buns because who can deny the appeal of a warm cinnamon bun? but a baby kind of bun is even more delectable, I know, the heresy of it all! Hope the pregnancy goes smoothly and that you enjoy the whole ride, that baby is one lucky kid :)

  97. Erin

    Oh wow. Wow. WOW! Such great, fun news all around! Congratulations!!!

    And a cinnamon bun recipe, when I’ve been looking for a good one for MONTHS!

    My oh my, Deb. This was some kind of post!!! :D :D :D

  98. OH MY GOSH!! Deb!! Congratulations!! Dkfgnkdjngd I can’t believe it; I was just thinking absentmindedly the other day that you’d mentioned potential babies on the horizon AGES AND AGES ago and wondering if there’d ever be a real one. ^__^

    …I don’t even like children officially, and then the other day I found out Sarah Michelle Gellar was pregnant and was bizarrely excited (I love her) for some reason… and now I’m even more excited for you (yes! Even more than for SMG!). This doesn’t make sense XD.

  99. First, CONGRATULATIONS! You’ll be smitten all over the place soon enough. What a great post, full of wonderful stuff!
    Second, insanely jealous of your visit to the lodge. Have a ball. (I am privileged enough to know Bossy IRL and she had a great stay there.)
    Third, I am horrified it’s been a year and I haven’t made the shallots yet. Off to do that.
    Fourth…the apartment is darling and you will enjoy Trader Joe’s (ESPECIALLY when that baby comes) but really, I’m back to that baby! Yay you!
    Last, do you really think I need a stand mixer for these? I’m going to have to break down one of these days and fix my mother’s.

  100. robyn

    Congratulations on all your wonderful news! My brain wasn’t quite ready for all that info! A dishwasher (so jealous – doing the dishes by hand after a 10-person Seder was, um, not so fun)! A trip to the country!! And a baby!!!

    I check out smittenkitchen AND pioneerwoman everyday, so it will be like heaven to see the two integrated. I can only imagine the amount of butter that will go down.

    looking forward to all the exciting updates!

  101. KV

    CONGRATS!!!
    This is definitely cause for my first comment on your blog, although I’ve been making your recipes for months now. What an exciting 2009!!

  102. Holy COW! Congratualtions! That’s so amazing.

    And a note about Trader Joe’s – only go there at odd hours, lest you spend your evening in a line wrapping about the entire store. But anyway, congrats on all of your momentous events!

  103. Melissa

    Congratulations! How wonderful! Now you can start working on fabulous baby food recipes! We are cooking up #2 at the moment, and the timer is about to ding. Wish you the best of luck with the new smitten kitchenette and the great new apartment—we lived in NYC in the ’90s and we are supremely jealous of you!

  104. Congrats on the house, the buns, the little bun and your weekend. Enjoy the weekend of cooking and chillin. He/she looks pretty chilled in the ultrasound.

    I was just thinking what i should bring to my kayak trip this weekend. These are perfect for sharing (i hope).

    Jeni

  105. First, congratulations on your new little bundle of joy.

    Secondly, congratulations on your new home.

    Thirdly, congratulations on visiting with Ree. I am just a slight shade of green right now.

  106. Kristin M

    Congratulations – SO much exciting news! Although I drool over this blog daily and now have an ever growing list of recipes to try, I’ve never commented – but had to now – so happy for you!

  107. Christine C.

    I, also, have never commented before. But there are just so many reasons to comment! Congratulations!!!

    Also, I feel as though my worlds are colliding by your visiting Pioneer Woman. I read both of your blogs avidly.

    And, I have to say, I am a little sad you are leaving Chelsea. I, also, live in Chelsea and enjoyed reading about the restaurants you go to in my neighborhood (Billy’s, Tia Pol). And though I don’t know you personally, it was nice to know I had you as a neighbor :)

  108. KJ

    Glad to see I am not the only one who has been lurking. Congratulations on the new move, and the cute kitchen, the planned trip to the country, but mostly congratulations on the baby. KJ

  109. cj

    Congratulations Deb! That dishwasher will surely be your Mama’s helper. I used to throw baby toys, dishes, bibs and all manner of baby related gear in mine.

  110. Slack

    That’s a lot of news for one post!

    I’m quite happy for you…mucho congrats! I’m looking forward to updates, pics, and craving posts!

  111. Marina

    Congratulations! I have been reading your website for almost a year now and all of the recipes that I have tried have been wonderful. It is always a pleasure to read your posts.
    We just had a baby in December and it is the best thing that can happen to you. I wish you and Alex and your “little bun in the oven” all the best!

  112. oh, your new place looks very nice. i love the checkered kitchen floor. i’m in the east village too. i’m afraid i would faint of excitement if i ever bumped into you at trader joe’s… i have a dishwasher in my miniature kitchen but i use it as a pantry. i am jealous of your visit to the pw’s lodge. can’t wait for both of you to blog about that…
    and finally, congratulations on the baby!!!

  113. I am literally salivating right now.

    I think I would throw some vanilla into the roll filling and might sub in some mascarpone in lieu of the cream cheese.

    Then I would proceed to eat them until my stomach hurts.

  114. Sooo… I might have just gone SQUEE multiple times while reading this. At work. My coworkers already thought I was nuts, but this might take it up a notch…….

    Congratulations!

  115. Jen

    WOW! Congrats on 3 counts – baby, new apt and trip to Pioneer Woman!! OMG, I”m not sure which I’m more excited about for you. I think it’s seeing Ree, she is my hero!!
    Have a great time!

  116. Mel

    Mazel tov! that is wonderful news!
    In the mean time, enjoy the new dishwasher. People say that you get used to things like that so quickly that you won’t even appreciate it a month from now. I disagree. When I left NYC, the first thing I bought was a washer/dryer. 2 years later, I still reallllly appreciate doing laundry without worrying about quarters!

  117. Ronni

    Deb and Alex, congratulations on all your news! Spending a weekend with Ree and her kids should give you a good idea of what’s in store!

  118. Jamie R

    Seriously, I couldn’t have been happier when you said you were going to visit my other favorite blogger to spend the weekend. Can I come? No, seriously? Then you had to go and say you were preggers and I nearly screamed… And I’m at work… and I don’t even really KNOW you. At least not in the sense that I’ve actually met you or anything. So Congrats on all of this stuff.

  119. Stephanie

    I am a new reader to your blog, but still wanted to congratulate you on your bun in the oven. Parenthood is a wonderful thing!

  120. Oh my gosh, delurking to congratulate you on the small person and to thank you for all the wonderful recipes which are rapidly expanding my waistline.

  121. Jean Marie

    I am always the last to know – and late to check in today. Huge congrats on every single thing! The dishwasher, new apartment, lodge getaway, and most of all, the little one. I hope this new building has an elevator. Four flights up, pregnant, in August heat would not have been good. Wonderful news.

  122. Congratulations!! I’m a September baby, and I consider it a fine month for being born. :) I hope that everything goes as smoothly and comfortably as possible!

  123. Maggy_Keet

    Woah, that IS a lot of news! Congratulations to you, on everything!!! Especially the chillin’ bun in the hammock. Haha. Looking forward to seeing what you and Ree come up with.

  124. Marie M.

    What happy, happy, happy, happy news! Mazel tov! The new baby will smell just as good as a tray of cinnamon buns.

    So much news. You get to meet the Pioneer Woman? Wow! Please let us know if her personality is like her writing? Sardonic? Funny? Caring? She will be the perfect person to talk to about your pregnancy! Plus they have not one but TWO kitchens as big as Jupiters’ moons!

  125. Deb

    SO happy for you! The trip, the cinnamon buns (yum) and your laid back little bun in the oven!

    Congratulations and many blessings!

  126. Melody C.

    So much fun news! I was excited at the new apartment (although I’m still skeptical about the smaller kitchen.) I was super-psyched at the trip to OK to visit Ree! But pregnant too!!! WOW! So happy for you both!!!

  127. kelly

    i think my brain is exploding!! so many congrats and yays and omg and wows for this post!! baby & TJs & the LODGE!! envious and very excited for you!

  128. Fantastic news! Congratulations on all of it – the dishwasher (oh my g-d, I don’t know how you lived), the new place, the pioneering, and the baby! What a diverse string of wonderful, happy things. Mazel tov!

  129. congrats on your pregnancy! so exciting. and congrats on you dishwasher… i mean, new apartment. ;) i am a fellow new yorker, and i have to say, both of your kitchens are WAY bigger than mine! i have 2 little boys and my kitchen is LITERALLY the size of a closet… it is a closet. the fridge is in our living room. i have managed to make wonderful creations so far, but it does take some creativity. i bet it will be much easier with a dishwasher though. what i wouldn’t give for one of those…

  130. teal

    *squeeeee*!!!!
    so much excitement in one post! i can hardly bear it!

    I can’t wait to read all about you and ree’s adventures at the lodge.

    and congrats! and hooray! on the baby and the dishwasher. heh.

  131. ch

    Many congrats! My unsolicited pregnancy advice: don’t tell anyone the name/s you’ve picked out. Before the baby, everyone has an opinion. After the baby is taking in oxygen all on his/her own 95% of people know it’s a done deal and don’t make faces, tell you about the 3rd grade bully with the same name, or suggest changes. Give pushy people a “short list” that is really your already-nixed second-tier list. They can have all the opinions they want about that!

    Also: you live in the US, so the kiddo will probably get a nickname somehow. Might as well pick that out while you’re at it so it’s not Great Uncle Herb who chooses it! I wish I were still in the market for names, as my big kiddos and I just listened to a great audiobook with a young Patrick called Patch or Patches. Love that as a way to have a Patrick who’s not called Pat (though I love many people named Pat). Mind you I don’t wish for it enough to even *consider* restarting that Parent Clock or surgically reattaching the diaper bag.

  132. I was excited that you were going to Pioneer Woman’s ranch, and then I spotted a recent comment about a bun in the oven and almost squealed out loud in my cubicle. How exciting! Congratulations!

  133. Get. Out. Well, first off congrats on the dish washer. That is a thing of beauty. But second! I am so jealous you are going to the ranch! It makes my blog lovin’ head explode. And third… without even calling to ask I know my Mother is probably at home feverishly preparing these cinnamon rolls as I write this. Since I am on a diet (HA!) I thank my lucky stars that I am 2000 miles away from THAT kitchen right now.

    I seriously can’t wait to see you, cows, cowboys and 12 pounds of butter per day being manipulated into deliciousness in Ree’s kitchen. (Not that butter isn’t already delicious straight from the fridge. I am snackin’ on a stick right now. ) I am a bit worried for you that Ree’s kitchen may cause you a slight hiccup in bonding with your new smaller kitchen upon your return home… I have a feeling hers is gonna be roughly the size of Texas.

    Good luck with the move and have a FABULOUS trip!

  134. Uuuhhhh…. yeah. I forgot to mention THE BABY!!! Good golly I am in idiot. Triple CONGRATS on that one! Surely this little person will be the best fed kid on the block.

  135. Nice! Congrats on the new place, the trip, and the bun in the oven :) I’ve only been following your site and blogging myself for a couple of month, so I love reading the posts with the backlinks. Needless to say, I have spent too much time at work surfing the web!!

  136. Christie

    I am so excited! New apt! PW and SK in the country together! SK is having a little one! CINNAMON BUNS!?! Sorry for all the exclamation points, this post was really exciting.

  137. So what about the pony? I guess you get that when you visit PW? I mean, that’s the only thing missing from this post. I am SO happy for you! And I am going to love the merging of my two favorite narrative voices.

    Advice for your cow encounters: don’t stand behind them. Stuff comes out…unexpectedly… Yes, I speak from experience after providing the entertainment one weekend when visiting a coworker’s family dairy farm. ‘Nuf said.

  138. Connie

    Holy News Overload Batman!

    What fantastic news! Congrats to you both and hope you are enjoying being pregs :)

    also, dishwasher, swoon.

  139. kriswithmany

    Congratulations! That’s awesome! Hehe – I *craved* butter during my first pregnancy – watch out! And how exciting to visit the ranch! How could you possibly find a smaller kitchen? Do they really exist? (I know, California girl talking here, LOL)

  140. Wow…lotta meat in that there bun post. Congrats on baby smitten… if nothing else, he / she will be very well fed. Can’t wait for pics and tales of adventures in Pioneer Land! Remember that you’re eating for two when PW whips out the baked fudge and chocolate cake and whatever else she has up her sleeve. Have fun!!

    Oh, and CUTE new kitchen!

  141. Jen

    Congrats! And can I just say…how do you neat blogging people end up getting to meet OTHER cool blogging people and actually get to hang out and COOK together? Where can we all sign up for that??

  142. lisa

    congratulations! so much big news. we are in much of the same situation right now…about to move to a new (old) house in a new city, and hopefully some buns on the way soon afterwards. i wanted to tell you though, that if you are ever in need of a bicycle, bike stuff, or bike repair you should check out my brother’s shop in the east village. it’s called NYCVelo (www.nycvelo.com) and it’s on 2nd ave between 3rd and 4th streets. he decided to open his own business about 4 years ago and it’s a really neat place with very knowledgeable staff if you are ever in need of such things (perhaps not right now in your condition, but maybe later). anyway, my brother’s name is andy, he’s the owner, and he’s there almost all the time. tell him that his sister really loves your blog and she says that he should give you a discount :)

  143. Megan

    So many congratulations are in order (as mentioned by approximately 270 other people before me, but hey)! I would say a dishwasher is a fair trade for a little less space, those cinnamon buns look delicious, hooray for baby smitten, and ohmygod I’m so jealous you get to go visit Ree at the Ranch/Lodge! I discovered both your blogs around the same time and it’s like my worlds are colliding! Good luck with the moving, have a great time with Ree, and stay healthy!

  144. Deb, I must add mine to the enormous list of congratulations. And cinnamon buns MUST be made, pronto, because I can use them on the buns from my oven as leverage to get all kinds of housework done around here. My buns are now 14 and 17!
    Your new apt. looks suspiciously like my old apt. which is in a building which fronts on 5th St., Ave. A and 4th St. I tell you what: that dishwasher will add all kinds of room to your kitchen. It’s God’s gift to the kitchen.
    Very excited for you. Mazel tov!
    Mimi

  145. Kim

    Wow!!! Such super fantastic news. I’m thrilled for you!!! Very smart to get on the dishwasher bandwagon before the little one arrives. Baby bottles by hand is a recipe for a breakdown. Have a wonderful, wonderful trip. I eagerly await posts from both you and the PW. -Maybe you can pick up some tips on how she juggles all those kids, the blogs, homeschooling etc. I for one could sure use them. Congrats again!!

  146. HUGE congratulations on so very many things! And thanks for the link back to those shallots, which are so good my dinner guests very nearly wept.

  147. Yolanda

    Deb –

    Good afternoon. First of all congratulations on your upcoming Stork delivery, that is very exciting news. Second I knew you were next blogger to visit the ranch, PW kinda gives herself away by highlighting your blogs. You will have a fabulous time. Happy moving!

  148. Sarah K

    Also delurking to say CONGRATULATIONS! I love your blog and use it all the time–especially for spur of the minute cookie cravings. I wish you, your hubby and the wee one the very best.

  149. Pamela

    Terrific news! Congratulations. We moved into a place with a dishwasher when I was knocked up and it greatly simplified life. I’m eager to see how/if your cooking changes apres bebe. I loved to spend hours in the kitchen before mine, and now it’s a race to get yummy, healthful meals on the table in less than an hour. Lead the way! And if you ever start a website dedicated to making yummy, healthful food for the babes/kinder, I would happily follow you over there.

  150. Mazel Tov! Lots of great news – yaaay! I’m sure you’re going to have the time of your life at Ree’s and can’t wait to see what you both post about your meet up.

    Happy trails

  151. Anne

    Congratulations! The love you put into your food tells me just how lucky this child will be to have you as a mama…. All the best to you and your hub! I’m already looking forward to seeing what you feed the little one! I’ve always been curious about homemade baby food and such.

    eeeeee!!!!

  152. Raquel

    How dare you put that picture of impossibly soft dough and frosted buns up after I just worked MY buns off at the gym. I said GOOD DAY, madam! **** willpower slinking (gingerly) out the back door *****

    Congrats on the new pad and the new appliance!

  153. Just wanted to add my congratulations to the already unwieldy congrats pile! I love reading your blog for your style & stories as much as for your recipes, and am psyched that you’ve got so much good goin’ on right now.

  154. with something like 281 comments you probably have all the congrats in the world on the move and the new babe to be, but I’ll add mine anyway.

    We moved when I was preg. and I feel asleep in a chair while my husband moved everything around me, so I think that’s pretty standard.

    Smitten Kitchen has a kitten?
    (I don’t know why, but that just appealed to me)
    Good luck

  155. Love your site…and am totally de-lurking to tell you so and wish you the VERY best with the baby. i am a mother of five, and it never gets any less exciting (or scary!!). And good luck with P-Dub…she’s another of my very favorite bloggers!!

  156. Susan

    Deb, thank you so much for having a great website! Your recipes have made my Pesach! And congrats on the baby- does this mean we can look forward to homemade baby food recipes eventually? That’d be awesome! Have fun with 2nd tri and settling in at the new home.

  157. Kait

    Oh so wow! Congraulations on your little bun. How very exciting. :) Have yourself a grand time with Ree. Love her site too. :) I believe she is how I found you.

  158. Wow, there is a lot going on over there! Congrats on the great news. I’m due in September myself, and I’m so excited for you guys. Though given what the last few months have been like for me, I’m way impressed with all the stuff you’ve been able to cook – I’ve been largely limited to bland carbs and plain yogurt.

  159. Sarah

    WOW! You buried the biggest news way too far down in the post.

    Congratulations!!

    You say “bun.” You sure it’s only one? ;)

    (I have twins, so I’m not just being mean.)

  160. Holy cow, holy cow! I am thrilled about all of it. Baby, new apartment, PW! And the Holy Cow is an accidental pun along with your skittery picture.
    And the buns look deliciouso!

  161. Sarah

    Sorry, second-biggest news. I, too, would lead with the dishwasher. I think my husband was worried I might run away with ours when we got it.

  162. Congratulations! Babies are the best! Have you thought of any names? I’m so excited for you. And what a lucky baby having a talented mom like you. And on top of that, visiting the Pioneer Woman? I dream of being invited to her ranch. It’s unbelievably beautiful. Have a blast, I can’t wait to see the pictures.

  163. Super big congratulations on all your big news. You are a superhero for maintaining a food blog, and actually cooking stuff, during the first trimester. I don’t think I could have done it.

  164. Liz

    Boy oh boy you weren’t kidding – TONS of news. Mazel Tov on your happy happenings! What wonderful things you’ve shared!! Can’t wait to see your joint posts with Ree, she is my favorite newly discovered (to me) blogger. Have fun at the ranch and I hope the move to your new place goes well!!

  165. Shannon

    Congratulations! So exciting :)

    The most important thing about cows: Never, Ever Underestimate how STUPID they are.

    Cows are dumb on a level you will never understand. So, just factor that into how you act around them :)

  166. I don’t know what i’m more excited for … you big move or your VISIT WITH THE PIONEER WOMAN! I CAN’T BELIEVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I’M BEYOND! Cannot WAIT WAIT to see all your photos!

  167. Daffy

    Too much good news – congrats, enjoy and congrats once again. So nice to hear happy news amid the general malaisel…. Buns look good too. Don’t know if the Brit expression translates, but you have a bun in the oven, in more ways than one ;-)

  168. Gini

    OH! MY! GOD!!!! Congratulations, Deb and Alex! I totally have the baby fever and am so so so SOOOO excited for you!!

    And to think I was excited about you visiting PW! How could I have known my excitement would be so overshadowed by further, more intense excitement?! My two favorite bloggers, blogging together. HOLY FREAKING CRAP. I seriously cannot wait. for either event. OMG.

  169. All of a sudden my life seems rather dull and dreary. Humph. But hey—congrats and best wishes and all that jazz!

    Ps. I can’t believe you’re wanting to go cook and eat—don’t you have morning sickness?

  170. oh my goodness, so much excitement! congrats on the kiddo! congrats on the move! (sorry, but i would LOVE to live in the east village, even if it is a shrunken kitchen.) i’m jealous of the dishwasher – i’m moving from a dishwasher-equipped, large kitchen in astoria to a dishwasher-less, typical nyc kitchen in brooklyn.

    also, i feel like it’s quite blasphemous that you haven’t been to trader joe’s yet! the one in the city is QUITE hectic and can be annoying, but you can’t beat some of the foods they offer at the prices.

  171. I don’t even know you and yet I feel like I do – Congratulations! Your little bun will be very well fed, indeed, when he/she comes into the world. Eating as a family with your kids is one of life’s great pleasures! And, enjoy your pregnancy – gotta love those little kicks. They are a wonder. Have a great time at the farm.

  172. deb

    Thanks again, everyone! You’re making this so much fun.

    And hooray for others in the September club. Perhaps we can keep each other sane. Or at least there will be a few other people excited about the pickle, ice cream, peanut butter and mocktail recipes to come. :)

    Shannon — You’re cracking me up because my friend Dave has been telling me this for years, and I totally forgot. “You know that phrase ‘Until the cows come home?'” he says. “The cows will never come home if they get lost. They’re too dumb. That’s where it came from.”

  173. *stepho*

    Wow, Deb! Congrats! Such great news about the new place and the baby..wee! I’m a huge fan of yours and Ree’s, and I can’t wait to see what you guys cook up at her amazing home! I’m a city girl myself (LA), and I can’t imagine my boyfriend and I trying to pull our weight on a real cattle ranch. It would be hilarious. Good luck to you and Alex out there! :)

  174. oh, and a question – if you make these cinnamon buns again, how much do you charge for one? i would totally come buy one because they sound amazing but i could never trust myself with a whole pan of them!

  175. Wow, congrats Deb! And now please tell me… you’re, what, 4 months pregnant? HOW HAVE YOU BEEN WRITING A FOOD BLOG ALL THIS TIME?! I love my food blogs but I’m 8 weeks and I have to skip over any food blog posts that are not about baked goods because it makes me feel nauseous just looking at pictures of perfectly benign things like vegetables.

    *BARF*

    Thank heavens you put all this news in a cinnamon roll post or I would have missed it. I’m so happy for you :)

  176. And um, how did I skim past the bun news? Many many congratulations. September babies are the best. Being hugely pregnant in August is not the best though. I sympathize in advance.

  177. Oh, so much to say, but I ‘ll keep it short. 1. Congratulations on the bun! 2. Thanks for the many wonderful recipes. 3. Cows are generally complacent and slow, but the occasional pissy one can be a problem. Keep a large object between you and them. Stay away from the bulls. 4. Thank you for the link to the Pioneer Woman website. Wrangler butts and chaps make me happy.

  178. Gretch

    First of all CONGRATULATIONS on your super adorable bun in the oven!!!!

    Second of all I’m now going to die of happiness…my two favorite blogs in the whole entire world coming together…today is a wonderful day (not just because I got my taxes done 3 months ago or because it’s my birthday)!!!

  179. b*schus

    Congrats! This news (all of it) just made my day. You and Alex really bring so much joy into our lives through this blog, happy that so much is going well for you.

  180. Hooray! Congratulations…look forward to those days when your belly will stop you from reaching the counter as easily and you have to turn sideways at the stove and grill….such amazing fun! Enjoy every minute! The cinnamon buns look amazing, too!

  181. JS

    Congratulations–that’s wonderful news!

    Quick novice-baker question: you said that you can refrigerate yeasted dough any time in the process and pick up where you left off after it comes to room temp. Does that include after the buns have been formed? In other words, can I make and roll the dough the night before, stick it in the fridge, take it out the next morning, let it come to room temp and bake (after it doubles)?

  182. The Speckledpup

    I am delurking to say CONGRATULATIONS…not only for the little smitten bun in the oven…but also…you now have a reason to eat/cook/taste/test for TWO…yay!
    Many, many good wishes coming your way.
    Da Pup in Missouri

  183. jean

    Holy shit! Oops, sorry for the language. BUT THIS IS GREAT NEWS!! Congratulations on the baby, the new digs and PW. You really go for the gold when you post, don’t you. A baby? I’m so excited for you.

  184. Amy

    Wow, congratulations, on everything!! Your post brightened up my otherwise uneventful tax day. And the cinnamon buns look wonderful..

  185. Bun

    Congrats congrats on everything…baby, new place, upcoming visits with cows–what an exciting next few months you’re going to have! :)

    P.S. Thank you for giving me another diet-dodging recipe to make this weekend. I’ve been wanting to make cinnamon rolls for ages, and these look, in a word, perfect.

  186. Amy

    This may be the best SK post ever. I can’t wait to hear about your adventures at The Lodge or to make those cinnamon buns. And I especially can’t wait for you to have a wonderful squishy baby! Congrats!

  187. Shilpa

    I knew something was up when the heading said lots of news, and the number of comments crashed my browser over and over. Congrats Deb and Alex!!

    Oh, and thank you for invariably making whatever dinner I am planning, whether it is for myself or many others, amazing! My friends still rave about the parmesan biscotti…

    Congrats on the new (non-husband) dishwasher – very necessary when hands are full of baby stuff…

  188. I JUST SPOKE TO MY SIS AND REREAD THE LAST PARAGRAPH — WOWOWOWOWOWOW! CONGRATULATIONS! NEW BABY, NEW APT, AND GOING TO THE LODGE ALL IN 1 BLOG POST? FAN-DAMN-TASTICK AND BEST TO ALEX TOO! Guess that’s why you are moving to bigger digs! WOOT WOOT!

  189. HOLY SMOKES! Congratulations on everything, but most especially on the wee kitten in the kitchen. ;-) My eldest child was born in September and he’s been such a blessing. May yours be the same!

  190. MissAnna

    Ah! Congrats! That will be a lucky little kiddo what with all the deliciousness coming out of your (tiny) kitchen! So fun!

  191. Manda

    ok… so many things to say… one at a time.

    1. Dishwasher! YAY!!!! I think you’ll find that with a dishwasher, a smaller kitchen DOESN’T MATTER….I found that it made clean-up a breeze, and just made everything so much more organized pre- and post- cooking. And, I’m a messy cook so that’s saying a lot. There’s no more cutlery washing, thats HUGE!!!! Its so tedious and takes SO long.

    Plus, you can learn to cook salmon and stuff in it….. j/k (i think!)

    2. OMG!!!! Pioneer Woman and Smitten Kitchen….. my two favorite blogs EVAR! Its going to be wicked.

    3. YAY!!! congrats on the baby! How exciting!

  192. gab

    you are already being overwhelmed with congratulations, but i have to add mine. a baby- how exciting! and a new aparment! congratulations to you and your husband and family.
    my whole family enjoys your recipes and my two teen boys even came running over to peer over my shoulder when i yelled ‘smitty (sorry, our affectionate nickname) is having a baby!’
    best wishes for a healthy, happy pregnancy and delivery!

  193. Linda

    Oh boy! Cows! Dishwasher! New neighborhood! Baby! I knew there was a reason for all those artichoke recipes…

    Anyway, congrats to you on all your great and exciting news.

    PS I understand that cows stare at humans, like they think you’re up to something. Have a great time with that, too.

  194. Congratulations, dear Deb! (and someday you’ll have to tell me how you’re managing without wine, if you’re managing with wine or if you’re going with the devil may care French attitude that a little dab won’t kill ya).
    The checkered floor is killer (I was spying and drooling on flickr), the dishwasher is a godsend, a fun trip is in order, amazing cinnamon buns have been baked (aren’t they great? I’ve made them so many times!) and you have your own bun in the oven! Whew! That wore me out just typing it. How are you managing???
    Congrats again, and lots of love!

  195. Lacie

    CONGRATULATIONS!!! The baby is the best news in the entire post. Although, some time on the “Ranch” is a sorta close 2nd. Have a great time.

  196. Robyn

    Congratulations! I’m also due in September, so I’m sure I’ll be following along with whatever you’re making since we will surely have the same food cravings :)

  197. Rachel

    Congratulations! What exciting news!

    On side note, I’ve been dreaming of making cinnamon buns and these look really great; I certainly won’t wait a whole year to try them! However, since my boyfriend has been (heavily) hinting that he wants a pie, they may need to wait just a little while.

  198. Edd

    Wow congratulations what a lot of good news, very happy for you both. The buns look great by the way. Hope you both have a great weekend in Cow country

  199. Linda

    So happy to hear of the bun in the oven AND that you are going to see Ree of Pioneer Woman (one calf nut at a time). You two are my favorite food bloggers and I envy you the trip. Have fun and do take care. Oh, yes, congratulations on all fronts, trip to Pioneer Woman’s ranch, the move and the BABY.

  200. Marisa

    Congratulations, congratulations!

    I read your site almost everyday (and have made so many of the recipes!) and don’t typically comment, but with all of this exciting news, how could I not? New apartment, new baby on the way; what an exciting time.

    Also, I’ve had cinnamon buns on the brain, and now you’ve given me no excuse to not make them this weekend. My mouth’s watering already!

  201. What a fun way to announce your news! Congratulations!!! Thrilled for you.

    And so jealous about your trip to see Pioneer Woman!! Ahh!!

    And those cinnamon rolls… yum.

  202. How exciting! I’m due in late July and growing by the day too. Meanwhile, I do come from cow country and generally they are relatively docile so you’ll be fine. Hope your trip is wonderful, the moving goes well and the little bun continues to grow happily!

  203. ML

    For a while my mom has been insisting that you’re pregnant and I kept saying “Nah…well mayyybeee…” but not actually believing her. Mothers always know best, that’s for sure! :)
    Mazel tov!

  204. Laura

    first, omg congrats!!!!

    second, i don’t know if you’ll be able to sift through all of these comments to answer a baking question, but i was wondering when, or if, there is a good point to freeze these cinnamon rolls?

    because i would LOVE to make them, but unfortunately do not have 18 people to feed and i know if i made all 18, they would go straight to my thighs!

    thanks deb! and congrats again!!!

  205. Congratulations on everything!! Your kitchen looks adorable and your baby looks as if he/she is enjoying the ride! ;) Have fun with Pioneer Woman and get plenty of rest!

  206. deb

    Laura — Of course I’ll sift through the comments! I always do, but you guys are definitely giving me a little extra work today. :) And I love it.

    You can usually freeze yeast doughs, just like refrigerating them (see #173), at any point in the process. Your just need to thaw them, get them back to room temperature and continue exactly where you left off.

    But from a practical standpoint? I’d freeze them just before the final rise, or after it, when you’re ready to bake them. We did this with ours, and I’m saving the second half to bake on moving day to ply the movers and our family helpers with. Because I’m like frail and pregnant and stuff (haha) won’t be any help at all.

  207. Beckik

    Wow, I’m not a delurker, just been a while since I commented but I’m here weekly….just wanted to add my own two CONGRATS in!!! Double Congrats!! that’s lots of news!! so happy for you!!

  208. Laura

    thanks deb!! i’ll definitely give that a try! and don’t you lift a thing! you’re growing a human, that so gets you out of all physical labor!

  209. Deb

    Congratulations on your bun in the oven! I’ve never commented on your site, but have happily made so many of your recipes. Keep up the wonderful recipes and best wishes for a smooth and uncomplicated delivery. I’m making the chocolate caramel crack tomorow and can’t wait!

  210. First at foremost, congratulations! My son was supposed to be a September baby, but came a whole four days early and ended up blessing me with his presence in August (almost two years ago now!). Word of warning: get ready for the worst summer of your life. While being pregnant is great (for me, anyway), you will be hot for the next five months. Unbearably hot. My little ice cream maker got the work out of his life that summer. And the best part is, no one will make you share.

  211. Oh my goodness! Congrats on the addition to your family, and I hope your trip out to the ranch is amazing.

    Also – I’m going to have to go make cinnamon rolls now. Darnit.

  212. OH MY GOSH!!! OK—I have to congratulate you first on the baby, b/c it would be rude to talk about the other stuff before that, right? So, a huge congratulation about that sweet news—it will change your life—parenting—and in the best way possible! But OH MY GOSH—you are going to the ranch? FOR REAL? I wanna go! As a matter of fact, I’d like to come to your new place in NYC, too—I LOVE New York—but anyway, wow—enjoy yourself! I can’t wait to read about it on both of your blogs! What fun~AND, I must say—those buns look AMAZING—I must try them~

  213. D

    Congratulations!!! I’m going to see if I can make these cinnamon buns for the baby-party I’m having at my place on Friday night. All of my friends and my sister have just had little bundles, so we’re getting together! I hope your new place has a nursery! :)

  214. Aaahh! I don’t know which part of this I am more excited about: the recipe, the move, the PW trip or the baby! Congratulations on all of them! Wait, no, I decided. I’m the most excited about your trip to the ranch because that will be the most fun to read about and I’m selfish that way.

  215. Beth

    Kitchen and cows and baby – oh my!!! What a lucky little person! Congratulations. And the definitive answer (from a person who has moved more times than she likes to admit) is yes – you CAN move dirty dishes. Sometimes, if you are very lucky, the moving men will pack your trash can with the trash still in it.

  216. Sooz56

    News, news and MORE news!
    Congratulations on your expanding family!

    (and speaking of chocolate caraml crack, I saw something similar at Whole Foods yesterday, and thought, Huh. Wonder if they read smitten kitchen too! I’m sure yours is better.)

  217. Irene

    OMG, congratulations to both of you on the actual human bun in the oven, the new digs in the Village and the dishwasher! I am actually leaking tears right now, as I did this morning when I found out one of my friends here is gonna be a daddy again! I cry sooooooooo easily! As for the dishwasher, I also have one, but believe it or not, use it to store my large baking pans and other bulky, doesn’t fit in my cupboards stuff, preferring instead to wash my dishes, pots & pans by hand, no matter how numerous!

  218. m

    Squeee!!! That is so much excitement in one post! Congratulations. :) Now that dishwasher will definitely come into good use, huh?

  219. Oh, Deb, I don’t know if you’ll see this in the sea of 400 comments, but I have to tell you how excited I am for you. Motherhood is amazing, and I know you and your husband will be absolutely over the moon when the new little smitten arrives. So, so wonderful….

    Thank you for sharing your life, your love and your food with us. I so enjoy your blog.

  220. amliag

    aww congratulations:)
    Your new flat looks lovely – I’m sure both of you and the little bun will be very happy there

  221. OMG, congratulations! That is so exciting. I can’t wait to be able to make that announcement someday. I hear you on the small kitchen – lived in a tiny place in Alphabet City (9th between Ave. B & C) and now have a tiny SF kitchen. Did you get a 2 bedroom?

  222. Tara

    Congratulations Deb!! That will be one lucky baby, having a cooking mama like you! :) So excited for you and Pioneer Woman to unite! :) I adore both of your blogs! Thanks for another great recipe!

  223. Rachel

    I just found this roll recipe after a year of wishing for it (It hadn’t immediately shown on the epicurious site when she blogged about it)
    I hope to finally make them Saturday or Sunday.
    I don’t know if this will work for you but eat everything you would like your kid to try. I ate lots of vegetables and all kinds of spicy stuff when pregnant with my first. She eats about anything. The second pregnancy I more in a rut with what I ate and my 2nd can be rather picky.

  224. You are moving to the super trendy L.E.S.
    Just spent a weekend there and what great restaurants and boutiques!
    Now you have an excuse to go to Russ & Daughters often!
    and you get to go to Oklahoma? to visit P.W. That is going to make the blogosphere explode!
    I am jealous!
    Good luck with the new digs and retired Alex (from dishwashing!).

  225. catherino

    WOW – that is a lot of news! Congratulations on all fronts, but especially on that little bun in your oven. Can’t wait to read more about it!

  226. donutty

    let me join the throng in congratulating you guys on your sweet blessing from above. imagine all the parenting advice you could get if you ever post an issue you might be having on this site–ha!

  227. The minute I saw the title of the post, I was like – she is so pregnant! Maybe it was mother’s intuition (My first kid (a aboy!) is due in July!). A HUGE congrats to you and Alex! I am so happy for you both!

  228. sarah

    Ch-ch-ch-changes! Whaa-ho-zie! Being a parent is the best… Congratulations and best of luck. Thanks for letting us in on the good news!

  229. JC

    YIPPEE!! Do you know how to deliver news or what?!?!

    I don’t care what anyone says, being pregnant is the Summer is the BEST (I’ve got 3 kidlets.) Know why? FLIP FLOPS. What else does one wear when nothing else fits? You will have something on your feet AND be seasonally appropriate. Not to mention that at 9 months pregnant, all that is appetizing is ice cream. Once again, you will be fed AND be seasonally appropriate.

    Congratulations. So thrilled for you.

  230. amy

    Holy geez deb!!! I have inadvertently been ‘away’ for a few days & was just checking in on the newest yummies & this is what i get! Hit us all at once, why dontcha!? Where are we supposed to start? Oh yes, CONGRATS on your newest “creation!”

    And, forgive me, I am not a parent yet though I realize this is very joyful but I actually said “nuh uh!” out loud to an empty room when I read that you & Alex are going to visit PW & stay in THE lodge! So jealous! I can’t wait to see what comes outta that kitchen! And those two cameras. Cheers to good news!

  231. Emily

    OMG!!!

    You’re moving, you’re visiting Pioneer Woman, and you’re having a BABY???

    Congratulations times a million!!

  232. I’m so excited for you! Hearty congrats on the newest family member, and wishing you a healthy and relaxing pregnancy. I’m sure you’ll have a blast in Pioneer Woman country. :-)

  233. Congratulations! On so many things!

    But the biggest, of course, is congratulations on the pregnancy! How exciting!

    And then a (smaller, more subdued) congrats for the dishwasher and the upcoming trip to see PW! Have fun and I can’t wait to hear about it!

    Best,
    Sarah

  234. kathi

    read you daily, never have written, but i must tell you i am sitting here spilling tears of utter happiness for you. xxxxxxxxxxx’s to the moon

    so since i am finally writing to you may i tell you our family enjoyed a smitten brunch on easter…it was 50/50 smitten/ ina and 100% delicious. love you!

  235. OMG! OMG OMG OMG!!!! That is wonderful news, I (um, a stranger from the internet) am so excited for you guys! At last… an under-the-counter dishwasher!

    :P Of course the CAPS were really for the baby. That really is so very fantastic, and I can’t help but imagine what a fun, nurturing, and… well… tasty environment the SK will be for a child to grow up in. Best of luck with all the new adventures, and a big congratulations to you and Alex!

  236. Congratulations on all of your exciting news!

    While I don’t miss living in the city, I do so love the East Village. Lucky you, being that much closer to the Farmer’s Market, and the Strand and that awesome little burger joint right off of St. Mark’s. :)

  237. alemar

    Congratulations to your move and may you have a lifetime of happiness in your new place.

    You read my mind, since yesterday, I’ve been looking for a good cinnamon buns to bake and can be baked in just one small pan. Some recipes I found was too much for just the 2 of us. I’ll be baking this tomorrow, thanks! By the way, have fun with Pioneer Woman and her family.

  238. Liz

    Oh my! A thousand times congratulations! I can’t wait to hear all about your new adventure with the baby!

    Also, I can’t wait to make these cinnamon swirl buns–the other kind of “bun” will have to wait a bit longer, though!

  239. Kristi

    This is my first time to post but I absolutely adore your website. I just wanted to say congratulations on the new apartment and the new addition to the family! The ultrasound is so cute!

  240. Congrats on the new place and the baby! I found you through P-Dub, so what fun to see you two TOGETHER! Enjoy The Lodge! The Dogs! The Cows! And tell us what you think of the concrete countertop, ok?

  241. Congrats! And here I thought I was just coming by to see the wonderful cinnamon buns (which I am sure are tastier than Cinnabon), and got extra buns for my trouble.

    Enjoy your trip, your stretchy pants, your new kitchen and your new apartment!

  242. Mel

    Coming out of lurker-dom… I found your blog through PW, and now you get to meet her?! Wow.
    And congrats on the little one!!

  243. Karly

    Oh Congrats, Congrats, Congrats!!! How exciting on the baby news!! And exciting about the move!! And I cannot wait to see posts from your visit to see The Pioneer Woman!! Two of my favorite bloggers getting together…it will be so much fun! Congrats again on the upcoming new arrival :)

  244. Mary B.

    What wonderful news! Congratulations! You will be wonderful parents! I love your recipes! Your pictures are gorgeous and now a baby in the mix! Good luck and God bless!

  245. Courtney H

    Congratulations on the bun, the dishwasher and the new apartment! Good luck with all the moving. And let me echo many people on here and say I am STOKED to see that you’ll be at the Lodge with PW. I can’t wait to see those blog posts!!

  246. Annie

    Congratulations! And to think, I was thrilled when I thought the post was just about cinnamon buns. I am so happy for you on all fronts!

  247. eemilla

    Thanks for keeping up all the gorgeous food photos and recipes during your busy packing and napping for baby days. Congratulations on the baby and the dishwasher!

  248. Connie

    Deb – A million dittos to every good wish from all of the previous posters! It’s evident you and Alex have been blessed in so many ways – now one more! Congrats and safe travels when you visit the Ranch. I’m looking forward to reading about and cooking what you and Ree come up with; I check both of your blogs every day for new posts and have truly enjoyed it, as has my family. They can’t get enough of your great recipes.

  249. Haha! Congratulations! I’m due in September too and it’s just now becoming “real”. Really real!

    And since I am 100% in early nesting mode, those cinnamon buns just need to happen. Thanks!

  250. Lexi

    Thank you, thank you, thank you, for bringing more people like you into the world.

    And also for the above recipe. I plan on using it to woo a certain male somebody, and if that doesn’t work, nothing will.

  251. Rose

    Congrats Deb! My cousin is also due in September. :)

    And cinnamon buns are one of my all time favorite things to eat. Period. I can’t wait to try this recipe. Thanks!

  252. Vidya

    My slow brain had to read that over and over before it finally understood the intended connotation of “bun”. Geez I knew something was up when you told you were moving! Congratulations!

  253. Marc on Capitol Hill

    My girlfriend and I just installed a dishwasher in our kitchen (which was part of a whole new remodel) and it makes such a huge difference! You will LOVE IT!

  254. cupcakes

    wait wait wait… when was the trip to paris again? I recall a reader saying she bets youd come home with a bun in the oven…

  255. Valerie K

    Congrats on all the new happenings esp the new arrival!! I will bake this cinnamon buns … coz I have the same craving and due August!

  256. Amanda

    WOW! What awesome news!!! A dishwasher, visiting Ree (totally jealous), AND a baby on the way!!??? It can’t get much better!

  257. Smitty

    Whoa, worlds are colliding. I found PW because you mentioned her flag cake a couple years ago and I’ve been reading her ever since. Next thing I know, you’ll bake a cake together decorated with kittens made out of frosting and we’ll see it on cuteoverload and then my head will explode.

    and congratulations!

  258. Joann

    Congrat’s!!! Can’t wait to here & see from your week-end @ Ree’s
    Do take lots of pictures. Have fun & congrats again.

  259. Heidi

    Mazel Tov!
    You and Alex will make wonderful parents. I honestly couldn’t be more excited if my own daughter was spreading the news.
    Best of health and happiness.
    Those buns look sooooooo yummy. Leave it to a clever girl as yourself to come up with a delicious way to break the news.

  260. Sara

    How dare you post this RIGHT before Passover is finished?! I want these now!!! I guess my matzoh crack will have to tide me over.
    Congrats on the baby- she/he is so very lucky to have a mommy to make amazing food all the time!!!!

  261. Zoe

    Congratulations! I wish you sleep and a complete lack of morning sickness. I love your site and can’t wait to see what you and the PW cook up together.
    Cheers!

  262. Cat

    Congratulations!
    You will be wanting a “Learning Tower” for the little one to help you cook. My 1 year old has just started wanting to stir and such and it is so amazing to share it with her.
    Yay!

  263. Jess

    Yay! Congrats on all fronts. I hope your pregnancy is going well. We are expecting in early Sept too (just found out we’re having a girl!) I’m wrapping up my last semester in nursing school & trying to get by without caffeine or alcohol is a killer! Thank goodness I found your Crispy Chewy Choc Chip Cookie recipe! :) It also helps w/ the choc cravings too. I hope you have a wonderful time on the ranch. Also, looking forward to those mocktail recipes too! Thanks for being an a lifesaver!

  264. ohmygoodness

    CONGRATS!

    Baby on the way and visit to PW’s Pad! You got it all right now honey, ENJOY IT! :)

    Good luck with the moving too!

  265. What a great kitchen! I have 3 cabinets – one under the sink, one above the sink and one as a cart on wheels. Ya gotta make what you have work!

    Cinnamon buns look so so so good. I love breakfast sweets.

    Congrats on the move!

  266. Amy

    Deb-I just read this post and my mouth kept dropping open, and open,…What a great new apartment! You + PW = my two favorite bloggers in one place at the same time!!!!! And a little DebAlex on the way! Too too much. BTW, I made these cinnamon rolls this weekend and I screwed them up. I formed them and let them rise the 2nd time overnight, come to temp and then baked them. The texture was off. Better luck next time, huh? Congrats all around.

  267. Mamadallama

    Congratulations! A baby! A new apartment! My two favorite bloggers getting together for a food fest! Yay for all of us! Now I have to go back and read the cinnamon bun recipe…

  268. Rhonda

    TOO MUCH FUN!!!! Congratulations!!!! Finding out I was pregnant at 43, for the first time, unexpectedly 5 years ago, my husband and I are still living on Cloud 9 with a beautiful little girl. Enjoy every second of waiting for and feeling and watching that little bun in the oven. In the meantime, I’ll try making these cinnamon buns with my once “little bun”. Enjoy your time too with that wild and crazy Pioneer woman – the 2 of you together in 1 room – what a hoot! Tell us more!

  269. Congrats on alllll these wonderful things! RE: Small kitchen/adapting… My DC rowhouse had LESS than 2 feet (no exaggeration for drama) of counterspace, 1 foot of which was taken up by a dish rack (no dishwasher). I baked and decorated about 300 cookies, 4 or so at a time, to be photographed for my book using said kitchen. Anything is possible!

  270. Mazel Tov!!! I got all smushy when I read your announcement — soooo happy for you! Also really happy that you posted a cinnamon bun recipe that might work better than the one I’ve been using for 3 years which has been thoroughly….whelming each time. I’m trying these. This weekend.

    Congrats again to both of you one the new place AND the wee one. :)

  271. thebrunettebaker

    Congrats on the baby!! I speak from experience, enjoy your time as just the two of you while you can and make all the things you’ve been putting off. Can’t wait to see you & Ree..take lots of pics.

  272. Long time lurker, infrequent poster, here.

    I’m excited for you! On both counts, the new kitchen, er, I mean apartment, and the baby. Yay! Looking forward to seeing how/if being a mama changes your cooking. Mine has changed dramatically, and as someone who loves to cook, I find it heartbreaking when my latest offspring turns her nose up at my lovely homemade lentil and apple puree with a side of quinoa. True story.

    Again, Congrats!

  273. So here I am reading this, and I’m thinking, “Oh, that’s so great! A baby! I remember when she and Alex were just dating…”

    And then I thought, “Listen to me reminiscing about Deb and Alex. I don’t even KNOW them.”

    Congrats, from another random internet person. :)

  274. I too am a long-time reader, first-time poster. Congratulations on the baby, the buns the new place, and the beautiful dishwasher! I’m looking forward to reading how it all goes. PS – I made your blood orange tart a couple of weeks ago and it was awesome! All the best.

  275. Stiffler

    Congratulations to the expecting parents.
    i look forward to seeing what you and the pioneer woman cook up.
    it’s national grilled cheese month; got a tasty and unique one to share?

  276. Melissa

    It’s amazing how happy you can be for someone you don’t even know. But I do feel like I know you and your husband through your wonderful posts and recipes. Your baby is going to be one lucky child — well fed and well loved, just the way it should be. Congratulations on all of your good news.

  277. Christina

    Congrats on the baby! And on the dishwasher as well. The worst part of my second pregnancy was handwashing the dishes around my belly. Very uncomfortable.

  278. Jules

    Deb – I just have to “de-lurk” and tell you how happy I am for you and Alex.
    When I read the last bit of news I whooped so loud I scared the cat off my lap! Congratulations on all your news!! (and yes – you will love the dishwasher, I remodeled 4 years ago and the dishwasher ranks right up there in enjoyment with all the counter space.) All wonderful news – Congrats!

  279. Linden

    Congratulations!!!!! (Both on the little one and the new apartment.) That’s such fantastic news!
    Also, those cinnamon buns are making my mouth water…

  280. bridget

    Wow, so much excitement! May I congratulate you on: pregnancy, visit to The Lodge and the dishwasher, in that order! I’m due in September too. Let me know if your pregnancy cravings include pickled okra. I hope not, but it’s one of my cravings, and luckily we’ve got a supply.

  281. Oh wow! I’m really late to this party but please accept my very sincere congrats on your exciting, wonderful news! So wonderful! And a new apartment (and delicious cinnamon buns) to boot. Yay you!

  282. Maureen

    Yes, here are still more congratulations on all of your good news from another long-time-lurking reader. Most of all, congrats on the little one! (What is in the air these days? Two of my own beautiful nieces – both my older sister’s daughters – are also expecting their first babies in August and December.) How wonderful! Blessings to you and Alex and Baby Smitten in your new home with the beautiful kitchen floor and the miraculous dishwasher. Woo hoo! I wish you every happiness.

    On top of it all, you are going to visit Pioneer Woman and stay at the Lodge?!! Oh my! Be still my heart! Like every other cook in the world, I’m anxious to see what you two will create in your time together. I envision many pounds of butter being whipped into a delicious food frenzy. I can hardly wait to see the delectable photos and read the yummy narrative. (I am already turning bright green with envy….)

    Thank you for sharing your good news with us!

  283. Jessica

    WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!! Congratulations!! What a clever way to announce the most exciting news! Awesome! I do think PW should invite guests to the Lodge to participate in this endeavor…especially a guest whose two favorite bloggers are Deb and Ree! Hint…hint!!! Looking forward to lots of updates on the developing Smitten Baby!

  284. Congtratulations!! I am so excited for you. I have a one-year-old, and must say that the whole working-from-home thing has really increased my baking time. Even if that’s not really how it’s supposed to go. Can’t wait to hear more, and hope you won’t be sooo exhausted that you’ll update less!

  285. Liz C.

    Well, now I’m officially jealous. I have become absolutely obsessed w/The Pioneer Woman lately, making you and her the only two food blogs I really read. I cannot BELIEVE you get to go out there. NO FAIR.

    Also: freakin’ congrats!!! So exciting about the tot!! Even though it makes me a little sad we probably will have to go w/o some blogs for awhile. Unless….you could cook up a bunch of stuff between now and then and then post stuff later that you make in the next couple months.

    Anyhow…PUHLEEZE post pics of your trip out to the country, so I can be jealous. *sigh*

    *sigh*

    …*sigh*

  286. Yeah! I’m certain you won’t read this far in the comments, but I just can’t NOT say, “I called it! I called it!” Oh, maybe dozens of readers left comments with bun-in-oven suspicions, but I wouldn’t know–I usually don’t read the comments. Hence, the comment that*I* left regarding such a suspicion a month or so ago, was not based on anyone else’s suspicions. Ha. I’m not making any sense. Don’t know why, but I just love it when I can spot a pregant one with only a minimum of clues! Smug!

  287. Liz C.

    btw: you know this already I am sure, but on behalf of Ree, you should bring her all the bagels and smoked salmon you can physically fit in your suitcase. It appears she has a freshly found love for the stuff.

  288. Marianne

    Wow you really have saved all the news for just one post. :P

    Congrats! :) Must be an awesome/exciting time for you right now!

  289. Fantastic news, congratulations! Three of my very best friends have buns in their ovens, and given the fact that none of them cooks, well, the buns are metaphorical. Good on you for having the metaphorical bun and the literal ones, too.

    All my best to you and your husband!

  290. claire in AZ

    Wow! You’re just FULL of fabulous news! Enjoy every minute … you know mama hen Ree will take wonderful care of you!

  291. natalie k

    wowzas! delurking to say congratulations! I have a September baby too (7 months now) and unlike lacrema, my baking time has dramatically decreased! but he is pure wonderfulness.

    and you are one very lucky woman to have gained a dishwasher. very jealous!

  292. Cindy

    Congratulations on your wee one! What wonderful news. And we already know your baby will be so well fed. Good luck with the move and safe travel to PW land.

  293. Janet

    CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!! You are going to be such a great mother!!! When you posted about your three years of marriage, I thought OMG YES! She should have a baby. And now you are!

    I also didn’t realize you live in an apartment with a small oven because you bake so much. I love love love baking, but my college dorm also has the smallest oven ever and I don’t know what to do about it. My normal sized cookie sheets don’t fit. When you make 50 cookies, do you just bake like six at a time? Or…? Where can I buy tiny sized cookie sheets? And when you made cinnamon buns, do you really just have to make nine at a time?

  294. deb

    Thanks again, everyone. You’re all so awesome! You’ve made our day.

    The “mini” oven — Is not really as mini as it sounds. But you can’t fit most baking sheets in it, I get special ever-so-slightly smaller ones. It is about 14″ wide inside. From the looks of it, the new kitchen might have something similiar, but I won’t know until I try and fail to shove a normal tray in it, if I have any left!

    Visiting the Ranch — We’re still sorting the details, but we do want to do a get together at the Lodge, probably with a cooking demo (she did something similiar when Bakerella visited last month), on one of the two weekend days I am there, likely Saturday. If we do, Ree will host a contest among both of our readers to fill the limited space and yes, I will be absolutely sure to announce it here too.

  295. Christina

    CONGRATULATIONS! A very small part of me is thinking that it wouldn’t be so bad if something horrible happens to me in the next few months if I could have a shot at being reincarnated into your kitchen…

  296. Howdy from Austin, Deb.
    I’ve never commented before–been skulking around the site for a year now, but I couldn’t contain my glee over the bun in the oven. Congratulations!

  297. Brittany

    In response to the picture of you in the dress on your flickr, you have the most fabulous figure ever! the way every woman should look!

  298. I couldn’t be happier for you! This is extremely exciting news! This is a big year for you! A move, a dishwasher, a new baby! Think of all of the baby food recipes you can try out and post! ~ Robyn

  299. wow, that is so much news. Congrats on the new place, and gazillion congrats on expecting a baby. The East Village is such a great place to live. With kids, we ended up moving north of the city, but I still miss living downtown. Have a blast out west!

  300. Katie K

    So much exciting news! Congratulations on the pregnancy! And now my two favorite blogs are coming together? I’m pretty sure I just shouted out “YAY!” :)

  301. samarahuel

    We must be kindred spirits! Not only has this rapidly become my favorite cooking blog since I found it a month or two ago, I am due in September too! Yet another thing I have in common with you…I must be cooler than I thought. The ultrasound picture IS adorable. We get to see the little one every month on ultrasound here in Germany, and in one of the most recent pictures it looks like he’s waving. All five perfect little fingers are visible; it’s precious.

  302. lynn

    helo deb from malaysia!
    stumbled upon your site 2 years back and have been hooked ever since! never left a comment but thought i should this time – CONGRATULATIONS on your move, and especially the lil one! :) have a great trip!

  303. Allison K

    There is no way I’m reading all 579 comments before me.. and this may have been said already but: GASP! Herringbone hardwood floors.. and on the diagonal to boot. Love. Love. Love. Congrats on the new place.

  304. Caithness

    you are the shit! cinnamon buns and news of a baby and going on a cool trip all in one post! YAYYY!! good luck with the move!

  305. Debbie

    WOW!! I can feel the warmth of you glowing clear out here in Washington State! How cool is all that??? Seriously, the baby picture is sooo darn cute. Love the hammock comment! Isn’t life grand? Excited for you and Alex. Can’t wait to see you at PW’s place.

  306. Ok I’m not sure I’ve ever commented before, despite well over a year of devoted reading, but that was just too much excitement in one place to NOT comment.

    And so, my comment is: AAAAGGGGHHH!! Because there is too much awesome to come up with anything better.

  307. MK

    So much wonderful news in a short little post! Congrsrulations to both you and Alex! (He can trade his dishwashing for diapers!)
    :) So happy for you both!

  308. Jen

    CONGRATULATIONS!!! You two are going to make such beautiful parents. :) And the little one is going to have the best. meals. ever.

    Jealous!

    (Also mega jealous of you staying at PW’s ranch. Amaaazing.)

  309. Congratulations! Loved the captions on the ultrasound – you’re going to be a great mom :) I still wish I could’ve taken the old Smitten Kitchen apartment, but thanks for emailing me those apartment hunting tips!

  310. Umm- O.M.G! That was so much news! Congratulations on the “bun in the oven!” How exciting!!! Also- Super jealous of your trip to see the pioneer woman. Enjoy. I look forward to pictures. = )

    Oh yeah- the cinnamon rolls look fantastic. uber fantastic.

  311. Louise

    Congrats on your ‘bun’, the new digs and fun travels!!! I have been reading Smitten Kitchen for over a year now, I LOVE it, and it seems appropriate to comment for the first time in the wake of such big and awesome news!

    I may even have to try the cinnamon buns, something I have not attempted since I destroyed my middle school home ec grade ruining a batch of them =)

  312. Congratulations! The new kitchen is adorable. I completely understand your joy in now having a dishwasher. After two years of no garbage disposal or dishwasher, I just moved into a house that has both!

  313. WOOT! Congratulations. Nothing like a bambino to keep your kitchen humming late at night.

    My kitchen is actually SMALLER than yours. I have a grand 3.5′ of counter space. 2 cabinets on top, two drawers, 2 adjoined cabinets on the bottom. We have half a dishwasher that is way down the end of the counter from the sink, and only holds like 5 dishes and is not hooked up to hot water. My landlady is a slumlord.

    How I’ve adapted. I went to the Container Store and bought the largest wire shelving unit they had, which is up against the opposite wall from the one line of counter space. That holds the microwave, toaster, cookbooks, and all foods that are not canned or jarred. Then I went out and bought a cheap, but useful little kitchen island that is long but thin and has a shelf underneath that holds all my large appliances. Mixer, food processor, bread machine all live there. There are two small drawers in my island that hold napkins, hot pads, pot holders, and kitchen towels. The top is marble and is helpful for baking.

    I do have a small dish drainer next to the sink, which takes up too much counter space but we need to air dry most of our pots and pans as they do not fit in the dishwasher.

    Hooks and more hooks help a lot. In my shelving unit I got two deep plastic drawers that hold all my cooking utensils, so literally nothing is on the teeny tiny counters. And still it is NOT enough space, but after 4 years I’ve learned to cope by washing everything as soon as I’m done, using the stove top as counter space (glass top stove), using small cutting boards, and keeping as much stuff as I can put away where they belong. It sucks, but it’s all I’ve got.

  314. Giovani

    Must add my congratulations to the list. A new place can be both very nerve-wracking and exciting at the same time, I hope you settle in nicely.

  315. Oh, and I forgot to say that I made the Clementine Cake for second seder, which was also a birthday, and it was a HUGE hit. You didn’t say it was like a steamed pudding in texture, but OMG, that was one fabulous Passover cake. So moist, so tasty, and even when I mentioned the boiled rinds, people still gobbled it up. I just used confectioner sugar (KLP, of course) atop it, which was all it needed. That recipe is now a go-to passover specialty in my home. THANK YOU!

  316. Chrissy

    How much excitement can one person take!!! You show us pics of your new place, tell us you get to hang out with PW AND that you are having a baby!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WOW!!!!!!!!!! I’m soooo excited for you guys – for all of the above! But mostly for the baby b/c … well … babies just rock. Even the really fussy, whiny ones (aka my son). Because even THOSE babies turn into the sweetest, most loving pre-schoolers. :o) Congrats on all the big events in your life!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  317. Many congrats on the little “bun”. It is my experience that baby bellies thrive on baked goods. And I’m so excited to read about your visit to The Ranch. Best of luck with everything.

  318. Rebecca

    OMG!!!!!! I know a million people have already said this…but I can’t help myself…congratulations! I’m so happy for you and your husband!

  319. Jason

    Congratulations on everything! I have been a faithful reader but never posted. I wanted to step out of the lurkers shadows to say how happy I am for you. It will be fun to see you making things for a baby and hopefully someday with your child. A little more smitten for all our kitchens.

  320. Lauren (UK)

    What a lovely lovely post!! I had a feeling, when I read the title, that there might be a little baby-shaped bit of news,then you were all “Apartments! Dishwashers! Cows! Lodges!” and I was all, “Well, that’s nice I guess” and then BAM! BABY!! Big congratulations to the both of you on all your newly acquired kitchen appliances, country breaks and miniature humans and I look forward very much to reading about them all in posts to come.

    And those cinnamon buns look incredible – I am ON it…

  321. Congratulations! I’m so jealous that you are going to hang with Ree- but psyched to see all the fun the two of you cook up. Thanks for all your tips on large/wedding cakes. I’ve managed to do a full scale practice run and am now set on making my own.

  322. Congratulations! Looking forward to a whole new generation of food blogger :-) Enjoy your new flat – and the cows. I am going to try to be strong in the matter of the buns. Don’t know if it will work…

  323. Peggy

    Deb, congrats to you and to Alex! I hope that everything goes well and that you delivery a healthy, happy child :) In the meantime, enjoy your new apartment and your trip to the Lodge! I’m heading to an event on the weekend and I’m torn between taking a nice cake or taking these buns! I’ll have to think on it.

  324. Jess

    I am selfish. Does this mean that we will get fewer posts come September?

    Just kidding! CONGRATULATIONS! Any buns you make, cinnamon or otherwise, are sure to turn out just perfectly. Make sure you take care of the oven!!

  325. Congratulations! And thanks for the cinnamon bun recipe – I’m living in the UK these days and can’f find a decent cinnamon bun to save my life.

  326. So much good news, and so many well-wishes, but I have to add my congrats here. A dishwasher! A cooking spree with a blogging friend! A little SK on the way! Almost too much to absorb at one time. Enjoy them in order, and sleep while you can.

  327. Ok…wow…I am sooo jealous. First let me congratulate you on the Little Smitten Bun…how exciting…I miss having a baby around.
    Second, can I come to PW with you?? How cool…My dd said yesterday I should have my own show cause I can cook too…but she’s bias, I don’t really cook…but I like to.

    Enjoy your move…I am an adventurer and moving to me is fun!

    Love your Blog…

  328. DeborahB

    Yay! Good news all the way around. Congrats on the new little bun! And I am SO JEALOUS! PW is one of my fav blogs (yours is one also) and the lodge looks divine. Have a great time and can’t wait to see all the pics.

  329. Stephanie

    congratulations on it ALL!!!! that is just so exciting. not going to lie – having SK and PW together might make my head explode – just too much awesomeness in one place!!

  330. eliza

    Congrats! As a mom of two little ones, I look forward to seeing how you adapt to life in the kitchen with a baby. It’s a wonderful thing. I wish you a happy and healthy pregnancy!

  331. Mel

    Congratulations! on everything!
    and as a fanatical reader of both your and Ree’s sites, I can’t wait to see you both together at one time :-)

  332. Claire

    Hi, Deb!
    I, too, am a lurker–and I have been for over a year now! I was inspired to finally comment because of your upcoming addition to your family (congrats!) and because of my supreme jealousy that you are going to the ranch. I can’t wait to see the posts! I love your site and my fiance indirectly loves your site because it keeps him well-fed . . .

  333. Krissy

    Congrats on the little one Deb! And have a great time at the Lodge with Ree. I love you both and it will be quite a treat to see you together at one time!

  334. Best. News. Ever! I can’t believe how excited I am about the pregnacy of a virtual (get it?) stranger…

    Looking forward to updates about cravings, nesting, and all the other great stuff that goes with little buns!

  335. So many things to comment on. Firstly, gosh, that floor (the wood one, dining room?) is absolutely divine! I was going to relinquish my lurker status just to tell you that, but then going to stay with Ree?! Wow, I read both your sites avidly so that’s so exciting.

    But you saved the most exciting til last- congratulations! I think baby smitten is going to be just about the best fed baby ever, especially once she or he (do you know yet?) gets a little older and moves onto solids. Cinnamon buns for brunch? I could only dream of such things when I was younger.

  336. Anne

    Heartfelt congratulations from upstate New York where I have cows a-plenty for neighbors—I love to cook the way you love to cook, but feel confident that children are the best part of life….enjoy this time. And enjoy that beautiful kitchen floor.

  337. Susan

    OOOH!!!! I’m so jealous that you get to go to the Lodge and stay with Ree and meet Ree and her family! I want to live there with her…is that wrong? I don’t care :) I’m jealous that she gets to spend time with you too! Oh how I would LOVE to be there with both of you!!!! Sigh! I will just have to live vicariously through pictures!
    Oh, and the cinnamon buns look DEE-LISH-OUS! Can’t wait to try them! :)

  338. Andrea

    Wow. Too many comments, but had to add my own congrats! I was due yesterday, so maybe that’s my eexcuse, but I can’t believe I’m teary with happiness for someone I’ve never met! Yay Deb and Alex! And, I made the Guiness Chocolate Cake three times this weekend. Thank you Deb.

  339. Deb! Good lord. So much amazing, and amazingly good, news! I’m so happy for you and Alex. So happy. Congratulations to both of you – or all three of you, even!

    P.S. Oh, and glad you liked the cinnamon rolls! (I almost forgot about that part!)
    P.P.S. Do you think I’ve used enough exclamation points here?

  340. ML

    Congratulations! What a lucky little baby… I’m due in July with #2 and I’ll be watching with anticipation for the arrival of your little one!

  341. Audrey in Oregon

    Deb,
    Not that you will ever read all these comments, what with moving, farming etc…..anyhoo, Congratulations on the Buns and the dishwasher. I run a lab in an OB office (so that would be like that mean person who draws your blood). I loved the ultrasound pic and the kid with his/her legs crossed like in a hammock. I’m going to share it with our ultrasound tech at work today. Are you going to find out the gender or leave it for a surprize? I’m sure your blog will change after Bun is delivered….more baby pics instead of food, but we will continue to enjoy it all. You are such a joy!

  342. I am so jealous that you get to go cook with Ree! The two of you together? Oh my goodness, I can’t wait to see what the two of you cook. I’m excited. And the bun in the oven? So excited for you guys. Motherhood is a total adventure, one I’m sure you’ll love (but to be honest, sometimes it’s not so lovable!).

    :)

  343. brooklynite

    not sure if you’re even going to see my congrats among the masses, but I had to write…you are going to be a terrific mother, I’ve always thought so!

  344. Sandra

    Congratulations: on the “bun,” the window, and the cows. I can’t wait to get some brilliant ideas on how you adapt w/in your small[er] kitchen. Congrats to Mr. Smitten, as well. :-)

  345. congrats on the new dishwasher – that’s top of list when we move later this year. i passed on installing on in my w. village apt when i renovated a few years back, in order to get more drawer space, and regret it every day! i’d have found a spot for the pots and pans elsewhere …

  346. Sara

    I almost leaped from my chair and did a dance! You’re going to the Lodge! Then I kept reading and DID leap from my chair! You’re prego! Congratulations on all your good news.

  347. nystateofmind

    Deb…you’re little future sous chef is very lucky to have you for a mommy….Mazel tov! (You’ve been operating without a dishwasher all this time???
    I’m ready to kill myself just thinking about it). You’re amazing! I wish you the best on all the surprises mentioned above…you do have a lot going on!

  348. makyo

    delurking for a moment to say that i read this site EVERY day (even when you don’t post i peruse the archives), your recipes have never steered me wrong, i am a huge fan, and oh yeah CONGRATULATIONS! new home, new baby, new vacation on the horizon… wow! everything’s sunny in the smitten kitchen (now with window!).

  349. Erica

    Congratulations on everything – what an exciting time! I can’t wait to hear both Pioneer Woman and Little Smitten updates :)

  350. Oh Sarah C.

    Congratulations on everything. The baby, the apt, and visiting PW country. Wow What an exciting time. :) Best wishes!!!

  351. Cathy

    I am coming out of the lurking closet–I read your blog almost daily, but never leave a comment. This time, however, there is so much to comment about!! Congrats on the new apartment, so jealous about your trip, and babies are always happy news!! Love your blog–keep up the great work!

  352. Jen

    Wow, look at how popular you are!! over 600 posts!! I’m so excited for all the new things going on for you! Apartment! Dishwasher! Baby! Trip! Good stuff. The cinnamon buns look delicous, by the way.

  353. Mariam.

    A VIRGO on the way – congratulations to the two of you. I will survive without news of smitten kitchen when you go through colic and teething sleep deprived nights, and will faithfully come back to check on the blog status – not much by way of contribution but staight from my heart. Thank you Deb for the wonderful texts you write and the very good recipes you walk us through – always fire proof. I’ve come to take you for granted. Let me know what I can do for you.

  354. Julie

    Congratulations and many blessings to you and Alex! Get ready for the greatest love you’ve ever experienced! Looking forward to hearing about your adventures at the lodge.

  355. Mona

    Congratulations! Baby Smitten!

    Maybe I will need to bake some of these cinnamon buns so I can get my own bun in the oven…(we’ve been TTC for years now, with no luck….) I am so very happy for you and Alex….

    *hugs*

  356. Congratulations on the wonderful news, Deb! Enjoy your new apartment and your trip to Pioneer Woman’s ranch! Looking forward to seeing pictures and recipes!

  357. Jen G.

    Great news!! New Apartment, New Baby…..all sounds great! You have to check out apartment therapy (the baby part) for awesome nursery ideas!!

    My quest for last Christmas was to have hot cinnamon rolls baking in the oven on Christmas morning – never made them from scratch before. Yeah didn’t realize the Kitchen Aid came with a dough hook!!! Got it done (alot of arm work – I even just used a pastry blender to blend it! What was I thinking??) but yours look a lot yummier!! Maybe this weekend might be a good time to try again…do you think you could sub in some whole wheat flour? Hmmm……something to think about.

  358. Laceflower

    Well I have to come out of lurkdom for this double header news! Congratulations on the impending bundle of joy. And oh my, my two obsessions collide, Ree and Deb, WOW. Triple WOW.

  359. jen

    congrats deb and alex! i’ve been an avid reader for sometime, and as a mother of 2 little ones, i’ve often wondered how things would change if you kids.i can tell you, that a smaller kitchen is not the only thing you’re going to have to adapt to in the upcoming months! my best strategies were always to prep, prep, prep during naptime and a swing/bouncy chair in the kitchen. you’ll work all these things out for yourself i’m sure, for now enjoy your pregnancy, and congrats again!

  360. li

    congratulations!!!!

    so jealous. the pioneer woman is one of my photography faves, and to be spending a weekend of beauty, fabulous food and awesome photos sounds like my definition of fabulous.

    you go girl!

  361. Courtney

    Congrats! I’m due in September, too. Our ultrasound pic had a similar knee-bent, totally chilling pose. Did you get a face-on shot? The baby looks like Skeletor in that one; it’s our fave.

    Your posts have been feeding my cravings the last few months (and helping with the weight gain, too). I hope the pregnancy hasn’t hindered your appetite – it certainly hasn’t affected mine. Congrats again!

  362. Dyanna

    Congrats on the move and the baby!!!! Woo hoo!!!

    Can’t wait to see you and Ree together! It was awesome to watch Bakerellas adventures with her and I’m sure yours will be just as much fun!

  363. Mary

    First time I’ve commented to you, I visit your site everyday and love it. I am so happy for you in all 3 ways, PW is my first stop everyday, Love her site. Then on to the food blogs, your second. Congrat on the little bun in the oven, we used to say that, are you from Maine? The new apartment is beautiful, happy for you both. Have fun with PW, lucky girl. Mary

  364. laurie

    Apartment, Ree and the Lodge (!!!!), AND a baby? Not one, not two, but three life-changing events! Can’t decide which is the most amazing–Ree or a baby. Well, of course, a baby, but still…
    Can’t wait to see how it ALL unfolds. Congratulations!

  365. kel

    Congratulations! I just discovered you about 6 weeks ago, and everyone has been enjoying all the wonderful food I have been making because of you! Like many others, I have never commented before, and couldn’t hold myself back because now I feel all warm and fuzzy, and I am so happy for you!

    And, also, THANK YOU, not just for the great recipes, but for introducing me to another great blog – PW – (I am relatively new to food blogs, and finding the gems is really exciting!)

  366. I have never commented on your site, but I check it regularly!! You are so fun!! Congrats on Baby!! I am expecting baby #2 in August…It is SOOOO much fun being a Mommy, but it is also quite an adventure…good luck!!

    I am so excited that you will be cohorting with PW!! She is hilarious…and seems like a ton of fun to cook with!! That should be a great time for all involved…even Alex…poor city slicker He has no idea whats coming…HA HA!!!

    Those Cinnamon Buns look absolutely incredible…I am going to have to make some!!! YUM!!!

  367. wow! I almost feel guilty adding to these nearly 700 comments, as I’m sure with all the exciting news you need as much non blog reading time as you can get! So I will make it short: CONGRATS on all of the exciting life changing events. I love your blog & share it with every cooking friend I have. Good luck juggling everything. I’m sure all your blog fans will be cheering for you every step of the way :) Best wishes!

  368. Delurking to say huzzah and CONGRATS!!! Now I want to go back and look at your recipes from earlier this year, and see if there’s a pattern of foods you could eat, foods you couldn’t….

  369. JanetM

    Hey DEB!
    omg so exiciting..
    felicidades!!
    ahhh now im remembering
    the days when i craved ben and jerrys and
    pizza from a only one pizza shop… hehe…
    n congrats tambien on your move..
    love the tile in the kitchen

    SO ok now hun i have a question..
    Im one of those people with a huge kitchen
    but NO kitchen aid!!! =|
    none sad news i know..
    neways i mean ummm for the question part now..
    would you recommend using a hand mixer or just your good old hands??
    ne options for the poor girl w/ out the kitchen aid =[
    haha

    1. deb

      Wow, everyone. Thank you so much. It’s so much more fun now that everyone knows!

      JanetM — You can use a bowl with a wooden spoon to combine the ingredients, and just knead the rest together on a counter. It takes more time, but will work just as well, and is even a little more fun because you get your hands dirty.

  370. I’m a regular reader who lurks and lurks but I’m so excited for you! I’m expecting our second little girl next month and I can tell you it’s just amazing. Oh and to raise your baby in the city – what a joy!

    I don’t know how you managed to squeeze so much overwhelming excitement in one post – baby, cinnamon buns and visiting the Pioneer Woman – but it’s incredible! Congrats on the baby and safe and fun travels!

  371. Diana

    I love your site, i love your food and i am so excited for you two! A new start with a new place to call home and a little one on the way. Is there anything better?? I think not! When we had our daughter almost 2 years ago now it was the biggest change you can’t even imagine and the love you have for that little person is incomparable to anything in the world. You are very blessed and our thoughts and prayers are with you through all of these new beginnings. Congrats!

  372. Maressa

    Wow that is AMAZING news Deb!!! Congrats to you and Alex, so exciting!!!! I am also so jealous that you get to go to the Ranch, I love Ree!!! I am sure it will be a blast!

  373. Erika Q.

    I was going to delurk just to say how jealous I am of your visit to PW, but you gave me something even more wonderful to derlurk for! Congratulations on the new arrival!

  374. Chaya

    Wow, mazal tov in advance! Oh, how exciting. Connecting the food + parenting worlds (I have no idea how to fit the cows in), I will say that it’s a delight watching my toddler wolf down the (generally spicy) foods I make. I’m sure you’ll have a wonderful time introducing Baby Smitten Kitchen (v. 1.0) to the wide world of flavors.

  375. Linda

    I am so happy for you both! Congrats on the move and congrats to your new baby. May you be blessed with a healthy and happy child and a healthy pregnancy.
    I can’t wait to see the recipes that pop up that are influenced by a craving …

  376. Anisah

    Congrats on the baby and the move! How exciting! Wow, it’s like the end of an era! (hehe, reminds me of the friends episode when rachel moves out :) ) I’m sure it will be great! The baby will be lucky to have a mom who is a great cook too! :)

  377. Skreeeeeeeeeeee! Moving! Dishwasher! Pioneer Woman! Cinnamon Rolls!

    BABY!!!!!!!!

    Congratulations, Deb & Alex! I think you guys will be awesome parents, and we all, of course, hope to see many baby pictures when the little one makes their grand entrance.

  378. oh my goodness – see what happens when I skip to the end but not actually read the ending? I totally missed the part about you being pregnant. CONGRATULATIONS!!! I’m so excited for you. And of course that completely explains the move, gotta make room for that little one. Can’t wait!

  379. Erin

    shamed into it by all the other de-lurkers, CONGRATS! on all your wonderful new adventures… ive enjoyed your blog for several years and have shared your wonderful recipes with family and friends with rave reviews!

  380. Ohhhh, CONGRATS! What is your due date? I am due with our first on Sept. 27 – in fact, we just posted the announcement on my blog! Can’t wait to hear more about your little one. A million congratulations to you!

  381. Hilary

    Wonderful news! I just “discovered” Pioneer Woman, and now to find out that you two will be in the same place, at the same time! Almost too much for me to handle. I’m jealous you get to stay at the Lodge!

  382. Wow! That’s a lot of happy stuff all at once. Congratulations! We just had our first little one in January and are loving every minute of it. Parenthood is an awesome adventure.
    Can’t wait to see what you and the Pioneer Woman cook up!

  383. Holy cow (no pun intended), that’s a lot of stuff at once! Enjoy your new home. Have a blast at Pioneer Woman’s place and MAZEL TOV on your baby to be! That is all wonderful news!

  384. moni

    Deb,
    Another former lurker who felt the need to offer my congrats. This is so exciting – my little ones now include a college freshman. You’ll not believe how fast the time goes. But every day is special and beautiful.
    But meanwhile, you have all these other great things going on – the move, the weekend (am I the only one who doesn’t know who Pioneer Woman is?)
    Oh, I also agree that this was a beautifully written post. Something made me keep on reading for the payoff. Well done.
    Best of luck with everything and very best wishes for a healthy happy summer.

  385. Salpy

    1) Congratulations! May s/he be born in good health.

    2) WHYYYYYY did you have to do cinnamon buns? I’m now going to have to make some. Except my fiance and I don’t really need 18 of them. Do you think the dough would freeze well?

  386. Bri

    Congrats on all fronts!! :) New baby, new apartment, new favorite cinnamon buns, how could it get better? Enjoy your time in Oklahoma with PW and MM, I’m sure you’ll have a great time!

  387. Penelope

    Obviously, congrats on the little bun in the oven, but you are also going to have a lot of fun with the dishwasher. I cook enormous amounts of food and getting my dishwasher 15 months ago has made cooking even more fun! On Fridays, I sometimes run mine 4-5 times. You wil also have more time with the baby!!

  388. elizabeth

    One more adoring fan wishing health & happiness to all (born and as-yet-un). Also looking forward to further “craving-motivated” recipes and wee-people-inspired postings. Congrats & many blessings!

  389. Kimberly

    Long time reader. Congrats on the bun in the oven!!! Have you seen the New York Times magazine online show “Tiny Kitchen”? They are only about 5 minutes each. Recipe tester for NYT with an 11 square foot kitchen. Pretty entertaining format.

  390. Lisa

    So Much News, indeed!! Congrats, congrats, congrats. Many wonderful changes for you and yours. And my two favorite bloggers working in cahoots? Can’t wait!

  391. Ok, let me be about the 720th person to say congratulations! That’s so exciting. Your new kitchen looks adorable, if slightly smaller.

    And it’s totally win-win when you give us a cinnamon bun recipe too…

  392. Jessica

    I’m so psyched that you are going to visit The Pioneer Woman! That is one of my favorite blogs along with yours :) I can’t wait to see the collaboration!!!

  393. Pam

    Best Wishes on all the great news! My mom (in fact the whole family for generations) has always had the saying, “New house, new car, new baby!” For some reason all three always seem to run together. So don’t be surprised within the year you’re looking at a new car to go with that new baby. Best of luck with your venture into cow country. As someone who is a “country girl” be prepared, cows are among the dumbest animals ever created. Food is the only incentive in this world that they understand. Rattle their feed bucket and here they come running. However, in your condition please make sure you stay away from cats and chickens. Both are not good for expectant mothers, especially cats as they can carry some nasty diseases for pregnant woman.

  394. Bobo

    This post was just layered with exciting news! Congratulations to you and Alex! I can’t wait to see more of the new apartment, the visit to PW, AND of course the new Smitten Kitchen baby!

  395. misswendy

    i made cinnamon rolls easter morning. i will be making these next, as they appear to have a superior cinnamon filling….but i digress…..CONGRATULATIONS! a smitten mommy! wooohoo!

  396. beth

    Deb,
    Hip hip hurray for impending parenthood! You and Ree are my favorite blogs, and I’ll tell you- reading good recipes is even yummier when you’ve got an infant snoozing on your lap. Congrats!

  397. Holli

    Congrats! Motherhood has been one of the most amazing things I’ve ever experienced!! Another mouth to cook for!!! So happy for you! :)

  398. Vana

    First time ever commenting, even though I read your site faithfully and have made many of your yummy recipes. (I somehow managed to marry someone who doesn’t like chocolate, so your Blondies have become a staple.) Congratulations on your new apartment and new addition to your family. And WOW, two of my favorite bloggers in the same place! Have a great time!

  399. Ida Rahnamai

    Congratulations Deb!! There are definitely good changes going on for you right now, and I wish you nothing but the best!

    On a side note, this blog and the pioneer woman’s blog are two of my absolute favorite blogs, and I am very excited to see what will happen when your two worlds combine. Oh and thanks for the posting a potato ricer free recipe for gnocchi. I made it last weekend and it came out great.

  400. Emmie

    Wow! What a post! Congrats to you both! A baby – now that is some news :) And then to find out my two favorite bloggers are going to be together and cooking no less! What I wouldn’t give to be there with you guys. Can’t wait for the photos!

    I came here today to find a special cake recipe for the hubbie – birthday is this weekend – wish me luck cuz I’m not a baker!

  401. you’re one popular woman! 752 comments all wishing you well. Well here’s 753. Congratulations on the bun and the new apartment and all the good things coming your way! And of course have a rad time in the country. I love reading your blog- so simple and the pictures are great.

  402. Amanda

    Wow! You will really love that dishwasher when you have kid related stuff to wash. News we got recently from the guy who came to fix our dishwasher – you don’t have to put it on the sterilizer setup if it is fairly new one to sterilize kid stuff (in our case breast pump parts and bottle parts). The regular wash gets plenty hot enough to count.

    Congratulations!

  403. Congratulations on your fantastic news–all of it! I am a long-time lurker, and while I’m writing, I want to thank you. Your blog, your pictures, your recipes have changed how I feel about being in the kitchen. Seriously, I cook from your blog at least once a week! Thank you a million times!

  404. Holy guacamole – who would’ve guessed that it would only take a bun-in-the-oven to cause the lurkers to unlurk? :) Was it the cinnamon, or the beebee kind? Both, methinks. Congratulations! “Smitten Bassinet” must surely be close behind….

  405. Amanda

    Totally forgot to post about the cows after I saw the kiddo news. They may be big but the old adage that they are more afraid of you than you are of them is true with cows. Just act confident and they’ll get out of your way.

  406. A) Your kitchen looks adorable, I LOVE checker board floors so much I painted my bedroom floor as such in my parents most recent house, and if I ever buy a home, I will have some form of them.
    B) I am too jealous that you are visiting PW! I grew up in a cow town, and they don’t do much, just kind of stand there.
    C) Congrats on the little one!

  407. Dawn in CA

    I KNEW it! I knew there was a baby! No one just gives up a NY apartment with a sky-lit kitchen without some compelling reason. WOO HOO! Sending all the best wishes to you for what is sure to be an exciting and joyous journey into parenthood.

    Wow, a new apartment… a baby on the way… a trip to the PW Ranch… AND cinnamon buns? It’s almost too much happiness to bear. Congrats!

  408. Jenn

    OH MY! Babies, buns, moving AND PW! What a post!! Congrats to you and Alex on the new addition to the family (and the baby too… haha just kidding). I can’t wait to read more about your journey into motherhood AND your visit to the RANCH! mmm must make those buns this weekend too..

  409. so many fun and exciting things happening in your world! and cinnamon buns, too. i don’t think it gets much better…unless you double the cream cheese frosting recipe. mmmmmmmm!

  410. Kim

    Congratulations! What a sweet way to deliver the news :) I’m so excited for the both of you! AND a trip to PW’s ranch! What fun!

  411. omg omg omg! I can’t believe you’re pregnant! Congratulations, I can’t wait to hear all of the funny stories you will tell. So. Excited. Sniff.

  412. deb

    Eeee! Thank you. And yes, I read every single comment. Sometimes twice! Each one makes me smile.

    Kimberly — I love Tiny Kitchen (link for those of you who have no idea what we’re talking about)! And how cute is Jill Santopietro? I’d love love love to do video like that but a) I’m losing a kitchen island someone could film across and b) it would never but so professionally done. But maybe one day!

  413. julie

    omg! you guys are going to make great parents. congratulations!
    on an unrelated note, i’m moving to nyc in the fall for grad school, and the first thing i did was go through all your old posts and wrote down which restaurants you said you liked. i can’t wait to try them all (and sorry if i sound so totally stalkerish right now!)

  414. Selkie

    Oh My, such alot of news… I wish my boys would produce grandchildren so I don’t have to drool over my favorite food bloggers babies….
    POST AN ULTRASOUND! ( you may have already been asked that and answered, but I can’t read the 700 something comments before me… I do find it SO HELPFUL that you box and color your comments so I can just scroll and keep my reading to you. You do get LOTS of comments: hard for me to read sometimes)

  415. ms ellie

    I’m so excited for you! congratulations on the dishwasher!!!
    oh……..and that other news….I’m so happy for you and Alex. And who better to give you mothering tips than P-Dub!!!
    Have fun on the ranch.
    And try not to stare at the fore-arms.

  416. YAY!! So much exciting news!! A Dishwasher! A Trip! A Baby!! Congratulations!!

    Though I rarely comment, I have loved your website from the beginning and I wish you and Alex nothing but the very best!

  417. Congratulations!!! Motherhood is awesome!!! I am so jealous, I would love to be a fly on the wall or the designated taste tester as you and Ree cook up a storm…what an exciting time that is going to be..can’t wait to read and see all about it. :)

  418. Melissa

    Yay!! What wonderful news! Congratulations to you and Alex! I’m due in November, and I’m very selfishly looking forward to the pickle and ice cream posts and watching you tackle baby food.

    The dishwasher and the trip sound awesome, too. Good luck!

  419. Jenna

    Congratulations! On both the baby and on hanging out with Pioneer Woman… how fantastic! You will have an awesome time with both!!

  420. Congratulations!!!! On all news! I have often wondered what would make me happier: a gift of a dishwasher from the boyfriend or an engagement ring. Seriously, a dishwasher is a beautiful thing. So excited to hear about the new addition and look forward to reading about food cravings!

  421. Heather

    Awww, congratulations!!! Like, I imagine, many of the other 782 people who commented (wow, by the way), I’ve adored your blog for quite some time now. And I’m so excited for you and Alex!! Can’t wait to read more as your adventures continue!

  422. Yay on the fantastic news!

    But, I actually have a real question for your fabulous looking buns. Do you prefer the high walled pans for most baking of pastries? I have cheap pans and am trying to figure out which small 9×9 and 9 x 13 pans are the best or what qualities to look for when buying.

  423. Katie

    Congratulations! I’m due in September, too, so I’m hoping that come next winter, you’ll start posting amazingly painstakingly pureed dishes for the tiny smitten kitten! The new apartment looks nice, too.

  424. Alyxherself

    You know I have been with you since ivilliage. I was there when you quit that heinous job. I was there when you married Alex. I was gripping that you should start a food blog and you did. I was griping that you should get paid to do this an you did. But I take NO repsonsibility for the bebe!!!yayayayayayayayayayay!!

    Okay, maybe a little, I always thought you’d make a great mom. I think I even ribbed ya onced or twice about it :)

    Good on ya girl, Good on ya. You have inspired me lo these many years, in the kitch and out. Little do you even know.

  425. brittany

    Ho-Lee-Cow! That was a post full of fun!! I am also De-Lurking to say Congratulations!! I am so happy for you! I have been following your blog faithfully for about 2 years & have commented to my kitcheny kids several times that I was wishing you would be the next victim of PW & her Lodge. I know that sweet baby of yours will be well trained to eat EVERYTHING! Best of Wishes from T-Town!!

  426. Agatha

    It’s not an accident you have so many good wishes here. Your blog is a treasure. Best wishes with the little one. And in getting everything done between now and the arrival.

  427. cs

    Mazel Tov!! New home, baby on the way, and a DISHWASHER!!! Wow, wee!! What a post, such a treasure. I must try these buns, too.

    Oh, one more thing…the cream cheese pound cake combined with the vanilla pound cake’s bean/sugar processing is so yummy. I almost wish that I did not add the 1/2 tsp of almond. I love that the almond came thru but almost wished it did not mess with the vanilla. From a chocolate lover that says a lot. Served with fresh strawberries and fresh cream it was a delight. The only downfall was that the FL berries moved out of season and I ended up with CA berries. Not bad, but after having local ones for the past couple months it was a bit of a disappointment in the berry dept. I also did not puree them but served sliced with a bit of sugar and lemon juice…for aesthetics.

    This will be one well fed baby!! Can’t wait. Congrats!

  428. Julia

    I’ve been a long time reader and HUGE fan of your delicious blog and have only commented once before but this definitely calls for another one….congratulations!!! I’m so excited for you!

  429. juliet

    i was sooo ooooo excited to see your cinnamon bun post today as i was JUST ABOUT to search your site for one (to one-up my mother-in-law…oh, no, did i just day that/?????) – but then i read on more and i do have to say
    #1 – super congratulations == your son’daughter will be the happiest and most superly satiated little person on this earth
    and
    #2 – that was the best-est, finely-est, loveliest post ever written of yours and now i know why!!!!

    juliet

  430. Helen

    I am trying to settle my 4 week old as I read your latest by bouncing on the gymball as a seat at the computer… Congratulations and very best of luck.

  431. CONGRATULATIONS!

    [my first thought was BABY! … oh. moving? we knew that. *do some stuff, come back a while later to drool over actual recipe* OH! BABY!

    hey, I was amused, but we’re all not my kind of crazy.

  432. Sandra J.

    Ah- I remember we moved up to the big time with a dish washer- so good. Hope it is everything you are dreaming of. Thanks for the great stuff while you are in the midst of a pregnancy and move- eesh, that is impressive enough (I’ve struck that combo twice now and don’t wish to ever go there again.)

  433. Helen

    Omg, in my haste to view your beautiful pictures of the cinnamon buns, I completely missed the part about the your bun in the oven!! SUPER CONGRATULATIONS on all the joys in your life!!!

  434. Kelly

    Congratulations! Healthy pregnancy to you and your husband. Now, regardless of gender, the baby’s nickname will be smitty?

  435. lauren

    Wow, the baby, the move! Congrats to you and your husband!. Smittenkitchen should start getting very interesting once the cravings set in. ;)

  436. daphna

    OMG, congrats!!!!!!!!!!! What good news on all accounts. I love you and the PW, so this is mindblowingly-awesome! I’m pregnant too–due in November.

  437. Kasumi

    Wow. That was one jam packed blog.

    First of all, congrats!! Yay!! Woohoo!! A baby…., think of all that great baby food you can try out.

    Second, congrats!! Yay!! Woohoo!! New digs. And a dishwasher. (I have a feeling you guys will still be doing a lot by hand though.)

    Third, good luck in cow-poke land and thank you for introducing me to another amazing blogger.

  438. Nabeela

    Wow….just WOW! Congratulations, you guys! I am so happy for you.
    P.S: I’m excited to see what the visit to Pioneer Woman brings….you are both among my top favorite food bloggers…so the cooking is going to be super amazing, I know :)

  439. cw

    Love the “bun-in-the-oven” post! Congratulations on all the big news – a dishwasher, the smitten baby, and visiting the Pioneer Woman. You probably can’t stop smiling!

  440. joi

    I think I’ve maybe posted one other time on this blog.. but I check it every single day, and this news just made me audibly squeal!! CONGRATULATIONS! Oh I just got so giddy for you!!
    I can’t wait to see what quirky recipes your cravings bring us and I hope everything with the pregnancy is funny or interesting at the end of the day. :)
    Best of my thoughts are with you and Alex both (and the BABY- so exciting)!!

  441. I was going to congratulate you on the dishwasher but ohhh! Amazing news!
    I also made these cinnamon rolls recently and loved them completely.

  442. Asha

    Wow wow wow.. I am de-lurking here to say congratulations.. I had to read the last para again to check if I was reading right!

  443. Sashikha

    Oh wow!!! Congratulations on baby smitten and the new kitchen. I’m so jealous about your dishwasher. Hope you stay healthy! Oh, and those cinnamon rolls are making my mouth water.

  444. WOW OW WOWOOWOWOW WOW! What a news filled post! I was stunned and excited by the news that you’re going to see Ree, but then even more delighted about your baby news! How fantastic! Congrats to you and Alex. We’ll of course look for daily updates about the baby, and what you’re eating as you prepare! :-) Coolest news of the day!!!!!!!!!

  445. dtmt

    wow. 825 comments! and 825 congratulations on your bundle of joy. here’s number 826 :) delighted to read about your little bundle of joy! take care!

  446. Kate

    Just another reader wishing you great joy and laughter with the new littlest “bun”, the visit with PW and making a new space feel like home. Congrats!

  447. Hi Deb

    I too have been a lurker forever! But I couldn’t resist coming on this time to say congratulations! How exciting about the little bun! Good luck with all!
    And I am very much looking forward to hearing about your visit with the Pioneer Woman and her brood!

  448. Yael

    Made the cinnabuns today (only deviation from the recipe is I used one large baking pan instead of two small ones; oh, also didn’t bother with the glaze), and they are a great success! Thank you! Ah, the joys of yeast, butter and cinnamon…

    Oh, yeah, and great news you got there, also. :) Congratulations!

  449. Radhika

    Congratulations!! The good news has made me delurk (after 3 years!) . How lovely! Congrats again, all the way from Bangalore!

  450. Charlotte

    I know I’m not exactly Johnny-on-the-spot here, but how exciting! I look forward to hearing about your adventures in baby-land, and getting recipes of things you’re craving. :) Send my congratulations to Alex!

  451. Angela

    Congratulations!!!! In a few years a certain kindergartener will be the envy of all the other kids when he/she opens the lunch box, or it’s his/her turn to bring cookies for a party.

  452. brooke

    so let me be the eight-hundred-and-somethingth person to say – Yay! A baby!! I have been wondering for a few months from some comments you made a while back, and I’m so happy I’m right! Can’t wait to see the new Smitten baby in a few months!

  453. Rayne

    Oh wow – Congratulations all the way from Singapore! (If you know where that is!) That is so awesome! (: Your baby is such a fortunate little kid to be born in such a cooking family, aha. This is completely worth delurking for. It’ll be really cool if your child’s birthday is the same as mine!

  454. kat

    I am also delurking to say congratulations! How exiting! I love news like this…also I am jealous of your kid, because it will be the most well-fed EVER.

  455. mmmpage

    Seems I am waaaaay behind the times!!! Congratulations! Wee monchy baby cheeks! NOM!

    Also: dishwashers are heaven. Yay to that too!

  456. Suzie

    Congrats on your trip to the Ranch!! :)
    and congrats on the little one!!
    Ree was talking about you on her website today and i had to come by and take a look myself!!
    Hopefully i’ll get to meet you soon!

  457. Congratulations! So much going on for you and I’m so glad to read about it all. I wish my computer could send smell because those buns look like they smell amazing!

  458. Leslie

    What wonderful news!!! I’m sure you are going to have a blast with Ree! Start praying now for a non-picky eater… it’s the bane of my cooking existence. (Of course, I married one too so it’s my fault). lol

  459. Hey, I’ve never been here before, but heard you were going to the Ranch with Ree and had to check our your blog, and then when I read your baby news, I just had to say Congratulations!! Lots of exciting stuff happening, hope you have a blast with it all.

  460. Jodi

    Congratulations!!! All amazing news — but the baby is the best part. Having a baby is THE best thing in the world. And my two favorite bloggers (well, actually the only ones that I read) are getting together.

  461. Katherine

    Congratulation Deb, I’m so happy for you and your family! Hope the summer breezes by for you – no matter what, it’s all worth it in the end!

  462. Helene

    Congratulations for both your upcoming blessing to your family and for the amazing blog that you offer us all! Great recipes, and even more entertaining.. your descriptions of the recipes. Keep up the awesome work….
    Thanks

  463. WOW…a dishwasher and counter space — and natural light! 3 things I lack in my tiny kitchen here in NYC!
    The treats look tasty! I may need to compare this recipe to the one I usually make. Thanks!

  464. Mandy

    Wow, I just read the whole post and, wow! Congratulations!! There are so many exciting things going on for the two of you! You must be so happy. Good luck to you!

  465. I read the first half of the post when it came out, and then got distracted – so I missed the whole WE’RE PREGGERS thing until your next post linked to it. Wow! Congratulations – that bebe is going to be the best-fed kid in the world. :)

  466. Green Linnet Bird

    Wow. Food Porn. You produce such awesome food porn that i am tempted into making things I really shouldn’t (what would two of us do with so many cinnamon rolls? duh.). Congratulations on your new apartment and especially on your impending bundle o’ joy– mine is due in 2 weeks. I just might have to make this for the in-laws that are coming this weekend.

    Coming from cow country myself (we just moved to central PA and live down the road from dairy farm), the ingredients are heavenly. Make sure you get and use some fresh heavy cream– sometimes its so thick its almost spreadable.

    Thanks.

  467. avasmommy

    Deb, congrats!!!!!!!!

    I had my first baby in June last year. It is the most amazing and life changing experience you will ever have. I can’t wait to see the Kitten’s kitten! (Sorry, couldn’t resist:) )

  468. Jana

    WONDERFUL!! lovely!!! oh Im pumped for you guys!!! I spent my whole life in the kitchen with my mom I cant wait for you to have those experiences together….hugs from another lurker!!

  469. Janet

    OMG, congratulations on the baby!!!! How exciting.

    And your new apartment looks gorgeous, too. Definitely pack up the dirty dishes and bring with!

  470. Oh my gosh so much excitement in just one post! I know I’m late but honestly… i thought it was necessary to tell you congratulations and hooray for the move, for the ranch, for the dishwasher, and for the bun! yay :)
    cheers and best wishes :)

  471. I’ve been reading your wonderful blog for about six months, and I am (like many before me) finally delurking to say congratulations on all of your news! How exciting! And I am totally making these cinnamon buns this weekend. Yum!

  472. Beth Miller

    I missed it! I got through the news about the kitchen and the cows and then I saw the pictures of the cinnamon rolls and stopped reading and started drooling (which might have to do with my pregnancy)…. I am so ashamed! I’m actually just figuring it out from reading your grape post. shame shame. However, I am so glad for you and Alex! You are going to have a blast! Heres to you guys!

  473. ClippyZ

    Another delurker congratulating you! Let me tell you, when you are one week past due and out of your mind just waiting, waiting, waiting (as I currently am!), I hope you have a go-to blog like smittenkitchen that keeps entertaining you! And enjoy feeling well – I have throughout! I think us well-fed girls do the pregnancy thing well!

  474. WOW a whole lotta news for one post! I’ve been lurking for a while as well, but had to say SOMETHING after all that good news! Gratz on the bun in the oven!! And your new digs, and getting to go stay in the lodge! :)

    I love your site, I love reading your posts (even when it is about something I don’t like!), and wish you both the best!

  475. WOW! So much exciting news! Congratulations on your little “bun”! You must be thrilled! I read all about bakerella’s visit to “the lodge” and I’m so excited to read about yours! You’re going to have so much fun! Good luck with the new apartment! Last but not least…I NEED one of those cinnamon buns. I really am an awful baker but they looks soo good I may really make an attempt!

  476. I feel as if there are congratulations due across the board, so many wonderful happenings!! Congratulations! These cinnamon buns look sinful which is what it would be if anyone waits to create such goodness asap!

  477. Oh oh oh! I just finally got back online after having my daughter 11 days ago. What lovely news! Babies are so GOOD! (Dishwashers are too, but not as profoundly so.)
    Congratulations, Smitten couple!

  478. tiptup

    Hi Deb,

    Is that pan one of the Williams Sonoma Nonstick Goldtouch pieces? I’ve been wanting to get some pans and was thinking of getting the goldtouch or Wilton Avanti metal safe ones. Any input much appreciated.

    Thanks!

  479. tj

    …Oh wow! Wow! Wow! And wow! Holy Cow – just WOW! lol ;o) Where do you start with all of the good news? It never ends in this post! Congratulations on SO many levels! I’ve been lurking for a while now and loving every moment of your site and thanks to Ree on leading me here… :o)

    …Again, congratulations and many, many blessings to you…

  480. Jen

    So happy for you, and happy for us that you shared your good news. Thanks for bringing a bit of sunshine to my world every day through your blog and your fabulous recipes, and wishing you a wonderful pregnancy and new life as a mom.

  481. Christy

    OH CONGRATS congrats!!
    we get wonderful baby news AND dishwasher news AND amazing cinnamon bun recipe in one post
    …almost too much to handle..

  482. Joanna

    CONGRATS! I am pregnant due Sept 25th with our first baby and OMG can I just tell you that I am going to make these rolls for breakfast this weekend! YUMMY! Congrats again….you must be having a girl if no morning sickness….I am having a boy and I cant keep anything down! I love the website and your food is delicious!

  483. Liz

    Congrats on the baby!
    I visited Trader Joes for the first time this week, and almost (*almost*) fell prey to the Pound Plus bar of imported belgium chocolate. I did succumb to their chocolate chip ice cream cake, which I encourage you to try out the next time you have an excuse to eat cake and dont feel like baking (if this ever even happens). It puts Carvel to shame (no small feat).

  484. christine

    congratulations
    i am looking forward to your trip to The Ranch, have a great time and look after yourselves around those scary cows!!

    christine

  485. congrats on the little one!
    I hope I can meet you at the Lodge; I’ve entered Ree’s contest, so we’ll see. Anyway…..enjoy the heck out of Oklahoma!

  486. Deb,

    Congratulations!

    Your baby is going to be amazing and really chill just taking a look at the way is sitting in your tummy. Your baby is also really lucky that he or she has got a Mom whose got an arm… for cooking. :)

    I wish you guys all the best. Please, fill Smitten Kitchen during the down time stories and pictures. :)

    Cheers!

  487. Sarah Elizabeth

    AAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!! My computer dies and I come back to find the most amazing smitten kitchen post EVER!!!! I literally jumped up and down and practically screamed and i called my boyfriend to tell him the good news (haha!). His response was a little (okay, a lot) less enthusiastic, more along the lines of “Smitten….. oh, the blog you read? Do you like, know her personally? You’re really excited about this…” haha :) What can I say, Deb – I love this site and clearly, we all love you!! I could not be more happier for you :) A thousand congratulations!

  488. And you saved the best for last!! Congratulations from the bottom of my heart! I am always the one over excited to hear someone is pregnant. That trip to Ree’s ranch is pretty sweet too but sorry lady….nothing like a real toasty bun in one’s oven!!
    Congrats to you both!

  489. I am new to your blog (a big thank you to The Pioneer Woman for pointing me in your direction!) but I see I got here just in time for the most exciting post ever!!
    Congrats on everything, especially the little ‘bun’dle of joy!

  490. Mitch

    Congrats on the imminent arrival! It says something really nice about the impact your blog has on folks to see so many well wishers leaving you notes. Congratulations again!

  491. alemar

    Hi Deb, congratulations on your new place and the baby!!!

    I baked this today but I only got 12 pcs. out of the dough and it doesn’t look as big as yours???? So I baked it on a 9 x 13 pyrex glass dish. It taste delicious! I’ll be making them again. Thanks for the recipe.

  492. Alyssa

    September babies are the best!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Wonderful Cinnamon recipe! I think I’ll try it out this weekend! Congrats!

  493. The bun in the oven definately beats your other news, but a visit to THE RANCH and a stay in THE LODGE is up there, as is a DISHWASHER.

    Babyhood is amazing and all that. I found that suddenly you become part of the Parents Club. You thought you knew all about membership before when you could look on from the outside, but once you become a diaper-bag carrying member, you are in like cinnamon bun filling. I also know the feeling about wanting to bury the lede a little bit, but there comes a time when the belly just doesn’t let you do that.

    PS–When I was pregnant, I wanted to wear a t-shirt that answers the top 3 questions:
    When you’re due
    Whether you know the sex
    What names you have picked out.
    But then no one could make light conversation with you and they would start to ask more probing questions–ack!

  494. Congrats to you! I found your great site through pioneer woman. I have recently added DUCKS to my city backyard. Have you ever tried duck eggs in your baking? I have heard they are better than chicken eggs. I should have eggs in 2 or 3 months and guess I will see the difference soon enough. Have fun at Ree’s ranch!!

  495. Mia

    I just came across your site through pioneerwoman.com. Great site, congrats on a little one and I totally agree with Meanders on parenting,

  496. Lin

    congrats on the bun in the oven, I’ve always wanted to announce a pregnancy that way :)
    Hopefully sometime soon I will be able to, and I’ll be sure to bake some of your yummy cinnamon buns too.
    Have a healthy and happy baking time

  497. Holy Moly – that is a seriously NEWSY post!!! Does it get any newsier than that??

    So wish I lived half a world nearer so I could meet my two favourite bloggers at once (at The Ranch)… but I am not. So I shall continue to visit vicariously… congrats on the Bun in the Over – wonderful news!!!
    :-)
    Hugs from Down Under
    BB

  498. The best thing about reading on Pioneer Woman’s site about your upcoming cooking adventure- is that I got introduced to YOUR wonderful site! I need all the inspiration, advice, and directions on cooking that I can get! ;)
    Congrats on the new “bunnie”, what a blessing for you! Can’t wait to see the concoctions that you and Ree come up with!

  499. manda bella

    I’m so excited for you, and I’ve never even met you! I’ve just been reading this site for so damn long! That kid is going to have the highest standards, considering the baby food will be made from scratch (and I don’t even have any doubts that this will happen).

  500. Kris

    Congratulations!! That is wonderful exciting news!!! Your lucky kid, he or she will have the most amazing food memories, and no doubt all of that inherited talent!

  501. Andrea

    Congratulations and best of luck with everything!!! That is such amazing news, and I wish you all the best!! And I totally understand the small kitchen, but living in New York is worth it, as crazy as that sounds!!

  502. katy

    Congratulations!

    Hi Deb, I’m a long time lurker, first time commenter…

    Had to come out of hiding to wish you well on such big news. On several fronts! Yay you!!! I’m making your zucchini and almond side dish (Best. Courgette. Ever.) as we speak, lots of love xxx

  503. Eric

    Congrats! The best thing you will ever do with your life is bring up a new one. Thank you for all the work you have done sharing your cooking with the world.

  504. trolley

    WOW! CONGRATS ON THE BUN!! I gave birth to my little guy on 9/20/08 and couldn’t be more tired but couldn’t be happier. I have to say baking has taken a bit of a back seat since i gave birth to a live wire. So depending upon what sort of person you bring into this world the life of baking may or may not become a challenge. I also LOVE that you’re going to visit the Pioneer Woman. This is like when the Jetsons appeared in an episode of Family Guy…ok, maybe no one gets my parallel but it’s so cool!

  505. Nan

    That’s great news! You’ll have to let us all know what you’re having – how exciting! Of course, I’d love to make you a baby quilt so just tell me, pink or blue? And PW?!? How fun! You girls are going to shake up the dust! I wanted to let you know that I made the saltine caramel crackers (or whatever they’re called) for the baby shower I gave…TWO recipes…I’m sure I ate one entire pan by myself and the rest of them disappeared as fast as I put them out. Thanks for another great recipe and at least 3 pounds! xo, Nan

  506. Linda M.

    OMG! First, i’m sorry to say (for me!) that it took Ree, to introduce me to you & your gorgous website!! I already have you on my Yahoo Homepage, right next to Ree & I also got a tear in my eye with your great news…..or maybe it was the cin. bun recipe!! BUT, I’m thrilled with you news & you’re due the same time my next Grandchild is due! So I’ll be watching & reading & cooking alone with you…..NOW let me at that recipe…I’m going in……to the kitchen!

  507. Debra

    I am so happy for you!! So much happy, happy news!! I don’t read you for one day and so much happens!! I love PW, and voted for her in all her categories in the “Bloggies”, except for best cooking site, which was YOURS!!! :-)

  508. Delurking to offer up HUGE congratulations! On the new apartment, the impending trip to Cow Country and the new Sous Chef on the way. So many good things coming your way. :)

  509. Elsbeth

    Delurking to wish you, Alex and “The Bun” all the best! Congratulations!!! And thank you for thinking of giving us some buns too ;)

  510. Ross

    I’ll simply add my heartfelt congratulations to the nearly 1,000 names above and say that the buns look fab and that the news of the newest bun is simply wonderful!

  511. Rose

    Oh why not make it one closer to a thousand? This might be my very first “post” anywhere ever. Don’t even know you but love you! Love food and babies too.

  512. Crashhooligan

    Oh my god, that is CUTEST ultrasound I’ve ever seen.
    Congratulations. =]

    And the cinnamon buns look awesome. I’m headed back home from school in a few weeks and I’ll have to make them.

  513. Kate

    So I just tried to make this buns and I have run into some trouble. The dough did not rise to double the size on the first rise. I thought I would try to finish them anyways, I rolled them out and filled them. The second rise was not any better. I am going to try and bake them now, but why would my dough not rise? Not warm enough? My dough was very sticky, almost to hard to handle. I kept adding flour in the first step so that it would form a ball. Could I have added to much flour to prevent the rise…. I will let you know how they are once I get them out of the oven! Cross your fingers….

  514. Whitney

    I don’t we don’t really know each other per se, but I’ve been reading (and cooking with) you since you started this site (and even read a fair bit when you were just “smitten” and I am sooo happy for you. Reading this has made my day! Congrats!!!!

  515. Su-yin

    Congratulations on the baby! :)
    Those cinnamon swirl buns look gorgeous, I LOVE anything cinnamon and am bookmarking this recipe.

    Will be looking forward to seeing what you and PW cook up together!

  516. And I thought the Pioneer Woman collaboration was the most exciting news of the day! Congratulations times a jillion to you, your husband, and your wee cinnamon bun. :)

  517. Jenna

    I just found your site and love it! Congrats on your little one!! Your recipes sound AMAZING, and I can’t wait to see what you and Pioneer Woman cook up!! Looking forward to your posts!!

  518. Vivian

    Congratulations to you on the baby! Pregnant, packing, moving, unpacking, travelling, writing, cooking—that’s very impressive! Exhausts me just thinking about it. I hope you’ll switch to organic grapes if you don’t use them already. Regular ones have lots of pesticides, etc, on them. Little Smitten wants the organic! Thanks for your terrific site and always-fun columns.

  519. Ana

    I swear I used to live in that very apartment when I was in college! Or else, that apartment on a different floor.

    Congratulations!

  520. Ailidh

    Congratulations! I’ve been reading forever, and enjoying it. I just had a baby myself (in August 08), and I can’t tell you how many kinds of fabulous it is. All the best to you and your growing little family!

  521. minni

    i don’t comment much at all, but just had to today.
    congratulations! you’re in for even more fun… i’m so happy for you!

  522. Ana

    Hi Deb,
    have been reading your blog for ages and love it but haven’t ever commented…
    I have tried lots of your recipes and never had problems with them, all easy and delicious! Thanks for that.
    BTW, I am a cumin junkie too. :)
    So surprised with the baby news, as much as I am with my baby news – I am due on 12th Sept.
    Congratulations to you and Alex and all the best with the new apartment!

  523. Congratulations! How exciting!
    I love reading your blog and always look forward to getting the notice of a new post. Those cinammon buns look amazing and I will definitely not wait too long to try them. Can’t wait to read about your adventures with Pioneer Woman- I am so jealous! Have a great time and don’t forget any of the details!

  524. Maja

    Wow, Deb, you made my eyes moisten! Congratulations!!!!! I’m actually speachless, all i can do is smile and think what a wonderful predisposition this new person will have, having been born in the greatest city on earth (and i love my country, but ny is ny) and to such a pair of wonderful people! Enjoy your time with Pioneer Woman, all the best from across the world!

  525. Siobhan

    Ooh, congratulations!! Sept 22 is my birthday – is a very good date if that is when your little one decides to arrive! They say a child needs a village, and you have at least 946 people out there wishing you well – it is a credit to you. Thank you for my favourite, and most mouth watering, blog.

  526. Congratulations on all fronts! Hey, I raised a baby in an East Village apartment with a teeny tiny kitchen, and he turned out to be 6′-2″ (eventually, not all at once). Best of everything, and enjoy the ride!

  527. Marzipan

    Congrats! That is one lucky embryo.
    I made these buns and they are criminal. Thanks for this and all of your great recipes!

  528. Marinette

    Félicitations!!
    First comment on your blog but that post required it!
    I am a french girl, studying in sweden and therefore sharing a kitchen with 9 other people. Sounded great at the begining but ended up being a complete nightmare, there is no way I can cook decently. I can’t wai’t to be back home and try all those recipes I wrote down in by cooking book.
    Your little baby is gonna be one of the happiest in the world, I know how it is to have a great cook as a mum, mine is the best.
    Bisous from Europe, and keep cooking, we love it!

  529. Oh my gosh! Belated, admittedly but CONGRATULATIONS!!

    I’m currently baking #4, due in five weeks and honestly having kids is the most amazing experience I’ve been through. I wish you guys all the love and luck in the world xx

  530. Michelle Overby

    Could not help but post, just like many others, and send you and Alex congratulations and blessings for your pregnancy. I love your site and share it often with my family. I am a midwife-student planning to graduate next spring. Whether you have a doctor or midwife attend your birth– above all–I hope that you have a gentle birth. Some great books– Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth (a lil hippie’sh but very empowering), Spiritual Midwifery, Gentle Birth Choices, Birth Reborn (neat lil book about birthing in France). Looking forward to some yummy cinnamon buns! Thank you Deb!

  531. Hee-Sun

    Hi Deb,

    I’m a longtime viewer/reader/devotee of this website, I just wanted to add to the chorus of congratulations (and help you pass the four-digit threshold on the number of comments for this deserving post)! I’m a college student with an incorrigible interest in food, and your blog was one of the first food blogs that I discovered and became legitimately addicted to. I actually gave up food blogs for Lent in order to give up something really meaningful and difficult to live without. Needless to say, discovering this post after a 40-day hiatus was a great way to start catching up on everything that I missed (it was like discovering this site all over again, swoons and all). Congrats again, and thank you for all the great writing, recipes, photos, and regular inspirations!

  532. leslie

    wow, a new apartment and a baby! congrats!!!! i can’t wait to see you at the ranch! you and Ree will have such fun. i’m jealous- of both of you.

  533. Kate G

    Congratulations — on everything! After a weekend of babysitting our tiny nephew (5.5 months! SO CUTE), I wish you both a happy, healthy, fun-filled series of adventures in the new digs with the new kid. :-D

  534. So much exciting news! As far as the dishwasher: I don’t have one, but I’ve always made myself feel better about it by being all, “Oh, it’s bad for the environment.” THEN, I found heard on the news last week that dishwashers are actually WAY BETTER for the environment: they only use like 5 gallons of water for a load of dishes, whereas handwashing dishes uses like 20 gallons of water per load. So dishwash away!!

  535. Not that you need another congratulations, but I thought this post was very cute. Buns in the oven. Ha!

    I can’t wait to see what you and Ree have in store for us. My head is about to explode as my two favorite food bloggers meet…in person!

  536. First of all, congrats on the new apartment AND the new bubs on the way! :)

    Secondly, I read both Smitten Kitchen AND Pioneer Woman, but didn’t think that maybe the two of you were friends or even in any way new each other! So it’s kind of weird to see two of the blogs you read, connect in some way. Then again, it’s not so weird, because you both run awesome websites, about awesome things!

  537. Klara

    I found your website about a week ago (via a link from ThePioneerWoman) and you have definitely inspired me to be more adventurous in my cooking. Thanks so much for sharing your wonderful blog, congrats on the new apartment, and CONGRATULATIONS on the baby!!

  538. Kelly

    Deb I am so incredibly happy for you! I have been reading your blog and making your recipes for such a long time, I feel like I know you (I am completely obsessed with the chocolate stout cake and blueberry bars). For my senior studio class we were asked to name 5 people dead or alive we would like to have dinner with- and you were number 1 on my list! (Although you would be required to bring cake, lol) You are such a joy to read each day! That’s one lucky kid you’re having : )

  539. hey girl! do you know how hard it’s been keeping your secret!!! WHEW! I can openly congratulate you now!!!

    off to click on pics of the little smitten baby.

    xoxo, j

  540. Sus

    Deb, I’ve been reading your blog since your early days of smit — in fact, just recently went back to your archives, having just remembered some story you told years ago that I wanted to read again — and I feel really silly being so excited for someone I don’t know. But I am! Congratulations!!

  541. Soph

    WOW!! Congratulations on the living bun in your oven! Mine is due in July and I am very much looking forward to your baby food recipes!!! I adore your site and wish you a wonderful pregnancy! PS word to the wise – watch your sugar intake!!! They check your glucose levels at the end of the 2nd trimester!

  542. CodeMama

    Congratulations! Now you will join the ranks of baking-crazed-obsessed mamas like so many of us out there. I just sent my 17 year old off on the bus with the final remnants of my last batch of souped up Caramelized Matzoh Crunch (read: Craisins, mini-marshmallows, chopped toasted almonds, extra chocolate). Her friends expect great things when my daughter arrives as school bearing a plastic container! Of course, there was the phase when all my daughter wanted was the baked goods off the supermarket shelves but that passed soon enough! It’ll be great! Enjoy!

  543. I can notbelieve it:I have the smitten in my blogline to watch every post you write and I just missed this one with the big secret. Congratulations, mazal tov!!

  544. Oh, congratulations! But the real reason I’m commenting is that you typed smittekitchen.net, instead of smitteNkitchen.net (the ‘n’ doesn’t have to be capitalized, but you get the idea). Luckily, your link is right, so I’m sure no one will ever notice except me, but my brain notices these sorts of errors and then forces me to tell the authors about them. People either love me or hate me as an editor.

  545. Michelle

    Very tricky. I read your post right away, and was so excited about the Cinnamon Buns that I missed your baby announcement!!! I just wanted to get to the recipe!!! Well I’ve learned my lesson. I should not let pretty pictures of YUMMY LOOKING FOOD distract me from reading the text of the Smitten Kitchen blog.

    Anyways, Congratulations! Babies are such a blessing!

  546. Kelly

    I forgot to add–not that I imagine you have time to really consider it, with all the awesome you have going on!–I actually forgot to add the egg into the dough. I realized it after I had set it up for the first rise, so I decided to try and knead the egg into it. It was very sticky and messy, but amazingly, it worked. And these have turned out so deliciously! I think you could use the recipe for other types of rolls, putting homemade jam in the middle, or cheesecake-type filling, or chocolate…possibilities are endless.

  547. EatGoodFood

    Congratulations! Very exciting news! Your babe will be the most well-fed babe in the world :-)

    But Pioneer Woman? Really?

    Her…taste…(or lack of) in food seems so different from yours.

    Chef Boy R Dee versus Alice Waters. Sandra Lee versus Ina Garten.

    Processed, packaged foods full of chemicals (Jimmy Dean sausage??? Velveeta???) and full of Product Placement Advertising. She openly uses some of her “recipes” for paid advertisements, like Stacy’s Pita Chips. And the prize “giveaways” to increase perceived internet traffic…

    It just seems so fake. I hope this website doesn’t get too influenced by hers and become another gimmick. “Brought to you by the makers of P&G, Kraft, etc….”

  548. Aw, congrats all around Deb! That’s one lucky baby, what with great parents plus cinnamon buns and pickled grapes! :)

    My husband and I spend an inordinate amount of time in the East Village, and find great new spots everyday. My without-a-doubt new favorite coffee place, Abraco, is not to be missed. They make their own almond milk, and the olive oil cake is divine.

  549. deb

    AWW. I am running out of ways to say thank you! But I’m reading every comment, and you are making us smile. We baked up the second half of the cinnamon buns as the movers arrived yesterday morning, and I swear, the smell (and snacks) made the process *this much* more bearable.

    EatGoodFood — I think you’ve misread something about this site. While my cooking style may not match others out there (and how could it? There are as many approaches to food as there are people cooking it) this is a judgment-free zone. I’d never judge someone wants to do things in a way I wouldn’t, and I’d never presume that my way is more right — it only needs to be right for me. I cook the foods I like, and try to put the tools out there for others who want to approach food as I do. And I’m frankly thrilled to have the opportunity to meet people whose paths would have never crossed mine without this site.

    Kelly — Great to know. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve forgotten an ingredient and things came out just as deliciously without it.

    Margo — Thanks, fixed now.

  550. Jessie

    Congrats on the news of your very own little bun. Our daughter was born on September 22nd, 2005 and we’ve been smitten since. I know you’ll feel the same when your little one arrives.

  551. MK

    Had to add a PS: That is the funniest ultrasound I have ever seen! I mean I’ve seen the “talk to the hand” the crossed legs, the “I think he’s mooning you” smiles and laughs, but never a “chillin’ in a hammock in my Bahama Mamma” – So very cute!
    Made the cinnamon buns tonight since it’s 40 and raining in CT, so unbelievably good! Thanks for sharing.

  552. Brittany

    Congrats on the baby!!!! And I have the tiniest kitchen EVER, you’ll make it work =) esp as creative as you are!

    I’m making these ASAP!

  553. For a super-fast dessert today, we made cinnamon buns using pizza dough I picked up from a local pizzeria, used your proportions for filling (with a little ground ginger and cardamom tossed in because I couldn’t help it), then covered them with homemade cream cheese frosting from a previous baking adventure.

    Anyway, I just wanted to tell you that I googled “smitten buns” and instantly got what I needed. So when that comes up in your sitemeter, you’ll know that the person searching for “smitten buns” was, in fact, looking for your site.

  554. Congratulations! That’s fabulous news. Hope the rest of your pregnancy goes well and you enjoy settling into the new apartment. If it makes you feel better about the tiny kitchen I have just moved to a kitchen that looks even smaller than your new one and doesn’t have a dishwasher (after over 4 years of big kitchens with lazy machines (as named by my Grandad)) but does have a nice big window. Might have to make a batch of the buns to test the oven…

  555. Evie

    I’m a loyal reader who has maybe commented once, though i’ve missed a few due my 2 1/2 mo old twinboys. all that to say congratulations… what great news for you and alex! i’m expecting to see lots of comfort food recipes followed by strange and exotic ones!! and after that lots of posts without caps for quick and easy to make with one hand recipes!!

  556. akaellen

    I turn my back for one non-obsessed foodie minute and you go and announce you’re preggers…..that’ll teach me. CONGRATS!!!! and on your new place also!

  557. Alex

    I just wanted to say thanks to everyone for all the good wishes. And also, that I’m glad Deb’s belly is finally bigger than mine. But mostly, I just wanted to be comment #1,000. :-)

  558. Matthew

    Like Alex, above, my post isn’t entirely unselfish (I want to be #1001). Numerology aside, that’s great news about the baby! Congratulations! That kid is in for some good eats when he/she gets a little bit older.

    And thanks, as always, for the great blog which inspires me and brightens my day.

  559. Marisol

    CONGRATULATIONS! your blog is an inspiration and mood booster to me and I’m so happy for you and your hubby. What a lucky little one to be born into your life and kitchen. Happy for you!

  560. Congratulations on your new little addition! and your new place! I have a tiny kitchen right now in a 600sq ft condo and we get by with some great meals :) We are actually moving too! The kitchen isn’t too much bigger, but we are excited to own our first home. and you will LOVE TJ’s (trader joe’s to the newbies) it has some great stuff and is really reasonable if you get all the non-premade items which I’m sure you do! Good luck with everything :) love your blog

    -kristen

  561. Sigh, please don’t change anything with the way you measure your flour or sugar. All of the recipes I’ve ever tried at Smitten Kitchen has turned out perfectly. I just finished baking the last batch of cinnamon buns courtesy of this recipe and they turned out PERFECT. This seriously was the most full proof recipe – ridiculously easy, uncomplicated. I added raisins as I know most buns include them, and they are delicious. Even without the glaze, they are heavenly. I thought all that sugar would make this recipe too sweet, but it’s just PERFECT.

    Thank you so much for filling my life with a recipe place that I can count on. Move over Food Network. :)

    And if I haven’t said so already, congratulations on your baby!

  562. Oh, and I’m wondering. Once your baby is born, do you think you’ll be changing up your recipes? Are you one of those future mothers who plan to feed only organic to their kid? I’m not sure how that would affect your recipes, but I hope not. Me and my poor college wallet can’t handle organic just yet. :)

  563. elizabeth

    I had a quick yeast question- The recipe states “2 1/4 teaspoons rapid-rise or instant yeast (from 2 envelopes yeast).” I always thought that 2 1/4 tsp was the amount in one packet. I was planning to sub out fresh and now I am confused :(

  564. deb

    Yikes — I was totally perplexed by that too. I buy instant yeast in pound bags, so I had no way of verifying and just assumed that between Molly and the Bon Appetit testing team, they knew what they were talking about. I would defer to the 2 1/4 tsp. measurement; that is what I did.

  565. tif

    Wow. Today I just stumbled upon your blog and I plan to eat mainly everything you post. Congratulations on all of the great news and I’m so happy to visit and rumble through all the postings on your blog! Thanks! It’s a beautiful site!

  566. Christine

    Wow! Dare I say it? This is the highest number of comments I’ve ever seen on your blog … unless I am mistaken. In that case, I do apologize, but 1,013 comments (not including mine at the moment)! Amazing.

    First off, yays for getting a new apartment! As for the note of small kitchen, I’m cringing as I think of it… but I’m sure once you’re settled in, you’ll make another post on how to get through your tiny spaces and reveal even more organization widgets and such. :)

    Secondly, I don’t know the differences between New York Trader Joe’s and California Trader Joe’s, but between the regular grocery stores and Trader Joe’s, TJ is surprisingly cheaper. (I hadn’t followed the TJ trend until a year ago.)

    Third, mm … buns.

    Congratulations!

  567. louise

    congrats on your delivery of you new place and kitchen. And best wishes of a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
    I hope your place came with a large washer/dryer or else you will be after the peanut is born, other then sleep.

  568. Kelly

    I already posted my congrats above but I do want to make these and I have a question…what if I want these for a 9am breakfast? Can I make them ahead and just cook the morning of the bfast? Or, should I cook the night before and then reheat?

    I noticed that you said you made the second half of your rolls recently so this might mean I can make the rolls and the refrigerate/freeze?

    Thanks

    Kelly

  569. I can feel your excitement through your post. Hey, if you have room for a dishwasher, you can always store stuff in it in an emergency. New York,OMG how I miss it if it was only for visits. Now, though, I look across the road and see cows…and, if you ever go out for the paper in the morning to be confronted by Bossy, a wave and a “shooo-way” worked for me.

  570. regan

    first and foremost congrats on your new family member ;-) !!!
    second, these cinnamon buns rock so hard! i made them earlier, and they are amazing! came out just like your pics.

  571. csbrown

    I feel sort of bad now! I skipped this post straight to the recipe because all I could think of was WOW – I wanna eat that! Then I kept seeing stuff about pickles and icecream (good even when not pregnant!), and it lead me back here – Congratulations! (on the little one and the dishwasher ;) )

  572. Chris

    congrats!!! that’s wonderful news! question: where did you get your square pan from? i’ve been looking for one like that for a while, and yours looks pretty good..

  573. YarMatey

    Delurking to offer congratulations: I’ve followed you since before you were a Mrs. Smitten, and you’ve really gone places. *Sniff* Our lovely Deb is all grown up! Excited for you and Alex.
    ~YarMatey

  574. Also delurking – I am so excited for you and Alex for your growing family! That is one great ultrasound picture too! Baby looks wonderfully relaxed – most likely from all the yummy things Mama is making and sharing. Congratulations!!

  575. Congratulations! These have got to be the best looking cinnamon buns I’ve ever seen! I can’t wait to try this recipe!

    I’m excited to find your website. I’ve been seeing the handiwork on Pioneer Woman’s website, you are talented!

    I’m originally from NY, and miss it so. My husband is Army, so we’re out and about around the country – currently stationed in Fort Polk, LA. I’m subscribing to get more fabulous NY-style recipes from you, since the likelihood of me ever getting back to NY is slim to none, unless there’s a blogging event to attend there. Let me tell you, food hasn’t been food since NY, so I do my best to create everything from scratch that we eat.

    Congrats again on your news! I’m the mother of six, so if you need anything, please don’t hesitate to call on me, been there done that ;)

  576. Congratulations! I’ve been reading you since you were a newlywed at The Smitten on iVillage. I’m a college student and don’t have the time to cook often but I still stop by SmittenKitchen occasionally. Could not have been happier than to check your site for the first time in awhile and read about your good news! I wish you, Alex and your bun in the oven all the best!

  577. mia

    so I’m the bazillionth person to say this, but CONGRATS!! I’ve been waay behind on blogs lately, so I’m also late. but yay! And I love your website.

  578. Congrats on the impending wee one! And I agree with you, cows are a bit scary up close. And my, those cinnamon buns are nothing but delish up close! Must find yeast… must make cinnamon buns….

  579. Deb, you’ve done it again! You make me wonder why I ever bother looking anywhere else for recipes. Since I moved overseas, I’ve been searching for the perfect cinnamon roll recipe. Not that I miss Cinnabon or anything (eurgh!), but at least then I’d have an easy fix! None of the recipes I tried were quite right–one had a sugary glaze instead of cream cheese frosted deliciousness, another was too dense–But yours are absolutely perfect! A bit fluffy, but with a slightly crisp edge, and gooey glaze…yum!
    Reading your red velvet cake recipe a year ago inspired me to start baking from scratch (well, the photos helped too), and I’m so grateful you gave me the confidence to do so! Thank you! And congrats!

  580. Just found your site from Pioneer Woman’s Site. Congratulations on the new baby to come in September. There will be lots of life in your new place soon ;) Love your blog! You are so talented.

  581. Add me to the list of 1000+ people wishing you congrats for the bun in the oven. That baby is getting quite a welcome!
    I’ve had a small kitchen forever with hardly any working space and the coolest looking 1949 oven. We finally upgraded and had our kitchen refinished. Now I enjoy more counter space and a better oven. I can’t imagine downgrading size. Keep up the great inspiration!

  582. Jen

    I just made these yesterday. They were INCREDIBLE. Thanks Deb! These are exactly how I wish all cinnamon buns are, everything I have one. Now, I needn’t long for any elusive ideal…I can just got the show on the road myself! I split the dough too, since having 18 of these around would be pretty deadly. Now, more deliciousness later in the week! Hurray!

  583. congratulations!!! very exciting news! i am already jealous of your child to be, growing up with so many delicious smells and tastes. what a wonderful life!
    and your new kitchen looks about the size of mine out here in cowtown, ohio, where everything is big except my kitchen. i have adapted though, thanks in large part to a dishwasher. yours looks very cute though, i love the checkered floor! congrats all around!

  584. I linked to this entry on my blog, Teh Noms Du Jour — my cinnamon rolls did not turn out as gorgeous as yours, sadly. I’m going to keep trying though. Thanks for the inspiration, and good luck, again, with the bun! :)

  585. melissa

    congrats on the baby. made these this morning and they are soooo yummy! is there a way to stop the second rise over night? i would love to have these early in the morning without all of the work.

  586. deb

    Yes, you can refrigerate a yeasted dough at any point in the process, taking it out the next day, getting it back to room temperature and proceeding from where you left off. (I mention this in comment #173, too, but don’t actually have any expectation that someone read 1,000 comments before leaving their own!)

  587. Liz

    *sigh* I grew up with a black/white checkered kitchen floor and I miss it so much. It’s so dreamy and.. I don’t know I just loved it. Enjoy!

  588. d

    You need to get to know Trader Joe’s. They have some of the quirkiest stuff around which might give you new inspirations for new recipes.

  589. Maiz

    Hi! congrats on the baby, the ultrasound pic is awesome..:D

    Now, back to bussiness, Im making the buns right now and wondering if the shape of the pan does matter.. I dont have a square pan, but a round one, actually a springform pan, I happen to have other square glass pans, but they’re not that deep.. so, which one should I use better?

    Thanks!

  590. Congrats on the new place! My last apartment was in the East Village. Miss all those cheap, yummy ethnic restaurants. We’re moving too — and also scored a dishwasher. It was my only request. Could have been a cardboard box with a dishwasher and I would have been happy. I can’t wait to christen that beautiful machine.

  591. Teri P.

    I just have to thank you for posting this recipe. I made the rolls yesterday to the delight of my DH and four sons. They were exactly what I have been looking for in a cinnamon roll recipe. I have tried so many and have always found something not quite to my liking, but not anymore! Thank you, thank you, thank you.

  592. Sher

    Wow! This one goes in my recipe box. A real “keeper.” Rave reviews from everyone who tried them. My daughter in law came and and as she had heated them and was diving in for her first bite said “Saving these for anyone?” I grinned and said “Yes,you. Enjoy!” She and I both agree they taste like Cinnabons.

  593. I am supposed to be on a diet, but I cannot resist the temptation of this recipe and finally made it! I love the cinnamon in it! These are a few alterations that I have made to the recipe: 1) I used skimmed milk instead of whole milk, is ok, but my rolls came out a bit dry. I reckon, I should have used whole instead next time and just forget about the extra calories. It could also be the extra spoonful of flour I added to my dough as I felt was a bit moist. I will try again next time. 2) After I sprinkled the cinnamon and sugar mixture on the dough, for half of side I added cut bananas and 2 teaspoons of instant coffee powder for Cinnamon Coffee Banana rolls – these are real devils! Thanks again for the great recipe! I am in love with it!

  594. Sher

    I had to add to my last posting…I promised my school-age daycare care kids, (they are my guinea pigs when I try new recipes), a bite of these and they never lasted through the weekend. I’m in the dog house. Shucks…I guess I’ll have to make another batch!

  595. Susan

    I congratulated you WAY down the line (hoo-buddy, 1052 well wishes so far!) but I wanted to just ask for one little thing. Will there be a new catagory on this site, something like, um..Smitten Nursery or such?

    I’ve just combed through your archives at “Smitten” and read your post grad life in the city. What a fun read. I’m hoping that you chronicle bringing up baby for us. It’s a whole new phase that will provide LOTS of material..eventually. I know you could give the life of a smitten mother a whole new spin! Just say yes!

  596. Mae

    Hi, I am sure you have had enough with 1055 “Congratulations”….so what’s one more?? CONGRATULATIONS! I just wanted to say I love your blog (or site, not sure which you call it). To be honest, this is the first time in my life I’ve ever baked anything besides chicken wings! Your pictures and the great easy-to-follow instructions were very attractive, and I really wanted to try my first time at baking with something I love to eat.

    As I am writing this, the dough has been mixed and left to rise. I hope it turned out OK because I did everything by hand (don’t have a mixer…but it’s sooooo fun by hand!!!!). So THANK YOU for spending time in writing up great recipes!

  597. Meadowbee

    Thanks so much for sharing this delicious gooey treat.

    Could any part of the recipe be prepared in advance? I’d love to bring them to my friend’s brunch tomorrow, but would rather not wake up TOO early. Would it be possible to let the dough rise overnight?

    Thanks!

  598. I just might be the last food blogger to find out you are pregnant, but a big huge congrats to you anyway! I just might be the biggest fan of pregnancy and all things baby, too! What an exciting time for you!!!

  599. Alice

    I just stumbled across this site trying to find a recipe for homemade Oreos, and half an hour later I am reading about your baby! I’m saving this as one of my favorites and I hope all goes well with you!

  600. mstoddard

    What a cutie! Each day I check to see if baby has arrived. What a joyous day! There is nothing like those babies.
    Love your site and all of your wonderful recipes. I have made many, many of them. They are always great.

  601. gardencrazy

    As soon as I read “Look what we baked!,” I squealed “AAAAAAH! Look!!!” at my husband; we have two little ones already, so we know the joys! I have Smittenkitchen as my home page, so every day, my husband hears about what you’re/I’m making now! I’m so happy for you both, and just as we (still) do, you and your husband will say to each other, “we made him,” even when all he’s doing is breathing. Congratulations!

  602. Yay, Deb! This is my 3rd SK recipe and by far the best. The dough was incredible; the filling unmatchable. Add some teeny pecans and honey for an extra zing, and you’ll see why I ate these until I was sick. :-) Very delicious! And the part about the cows coming home; huh! Who wouldda thunk?

  603. Made it a second time (yes, already- they were that good!) and had problems with my dough, like 1064’s comment says. Wouldn’t rise for it’s life. Same yeast; same kitchen, same ingredients. I think the seceret is adding the right amount of flour and making sure that the milk/butter recipe is warm enough. Rise, my dough-ling, rise!!! Bwahaha!!! :-)

  604. LauraZero

    I made this TWICE last weekend. I halved the bun recipe, but kept the glaze amount the same. Good lord. Insanely good. I am getting ready to whip up another batch tonight!

  605. Stephanie

    And then your little guy was born with a cinnamon roll on his head! My daughter, upon learning I was pregnant, asked if it could be a kitty. “I want it be a kitty please.” My son, along with having a kitty cry as a newborn (they all do), at age 4 still loves crawling around the house meowing! The power we have…

    I made these! They ROCK! But the second rise does take absolutely forever. I hoped they’d rise in the fridge overnight. They didn’t. So for breakfast I made the “leftover” ones that hadn’t fit in my baking pan. Really tasty, but without the rise. About 1.5 hours later, made the rest. WONDERFUL

    And I made your graham crackers last week, so now I get to try them with some cream cheese frosting.

  606. Tiny Kitchen

    I see you’ve answered about 25 questions regarding freezing and refrigerating, but I have to ask another one (two, actually). Can you refrigerate and freeze more than once during the process, or do multiple temperature changes have a negative effect on the dough? For example, combine the dough ingredients tonight, then put them in the fridge until tomorrow evening, let the dough double tomorrow evening, punch down, roll out and assemble buns, and then refrigerate or freeze until a few hours before needed, let come to room temperature, double and bake? Also, is there a harm to letting the dough rise for a while after it has doubled (at either stage)?

  607. Leslie

    I made these but substituted whole wheat flour when I added the 2 1/2 cups in stage two. They came out great — barely look like WW, and definitely don’t taste like WW. Must be all that cinnamon and sugar!
    Yum

  608. Francheska

    The dough has been in the oven rising for an hour and a half…And I just realized I forgot the salt, THE SALT DAMN IT, I googled (yes I googled” forgot salt in dough”) and apparently im doomed to stale flat rolls

  609. Jennifer

    I made these for Xmas morning and they were delicious! My only complaint is that they were no better than the Pillsbury ones in the can. Alas, I will not attempt cinnamon buns from scratch again. Sometimes you can’t improve on perfection!

  610. Sara

    I, too, made these for Christmas breakfast, although I made them a week ahead of time and froze them after the second rising. They were divine. My mom was especially enamored with the icing. I forgot that I only baked half the recipe – still have some in the freezer – and made a whole batch of icing. But she soon discovered that it was very tasty on the world peace/korova cookies. Thanks for all your great work to make these recipes more accessible. We used several of your posts for our holiday cooking/baking and everything came out like we expected.

  611. Beg to differ with Jennifer, 1077: Although the pre-made might “taste” as good, processed buns (although convenient and tasty) are no match, with their aluminum preservative aftertaste, to the fresh ingredients of homemade.

  612. Beginner question here – is there any way to go to just the step before baking and perhaps refrigerate them overnight so that they can just be baked and frosted in the morning? I’m guessing the dough might be ruined this way, but thought I’d ask. These would be great to be able to bake up in the morning, if possible, and have all the rest done beforehand. Thanks for any tips!

    1. deb

      Elisa — I haven’t tried it that way with this recipe but I suspect it will work just fine. You might click over to Molly’s site where the original recipe is and scroll through the comments; surely someone has tried this method.

  613. Francheska

    I tried refrigerating a few I wanted to bake next morning and they got really wrinkly and ugly, tasted great anyway

  614. Natacha

    I put the ingredients in my bread machine on the “dough” setting, and once it finished I rolled them and stuff then automatically put it in the oven for 25min at 350. It took less time, and they still tasted FANTASTIC!

  615. NowImJustAMom

    I made these this morning and they were the BEST cinnamon rolls I’ve ever had – the only downside is I’ve eaten 3 in the span of 10 minutes. My 1 year old and my 3 year old are devouring them. I made a couple of alterations. First, I made the dough the night ahead and put them in the refrigerator – this made it quicker in the morning and less interruptions from little ones. Second, I used buttermilk rather than whole milk – this offered a nice balance to the added syrup (below) and made the flavor more screaming excellent. Third, I drizzled Agave Syrup on the rolls just before popping them into the oven. This made a caramel glaze that was amazing. Of course this made the rolls more “sticky bunnish” and less cinnamon rollish, but I prefer my morning sweets on the moist side, and in this case caramel-like sticky side.

  616. Kristen

    Now this is a little late, but hopefully Elisa will see this– Absolutely make them the night before and fridge them!! I’ve done it several times, and it always works beautifully. Whip them up the night before, roll, cut, place in the dish, cover and let them rise for the 45 min (until doubled) and then fridge them! Bake them off for 20 min in the morning and your guests will think you’ve been up for hours :)

    You can even keep them in the fridge for a day before baking them, so you can avoid the inevitable problem of stale-ness from baking an entire batch at once for only 2 people. I bake 1/2 at a time so my boyfriend can always have them warm and gooey. I suppose I could just cut the recipe in 1/2… but then i wouldn’t get to eat as many!!

  617. Kathy in Madison

    Good morning, Deb! I made these lovely rolls on Sunday night to bring to work. Delicious. My sole change was to use white whole wheat flour in place of AP; as you may imagine, the dough was stickier, so I had to add some extra flour as I kneaded by hand (the KitchenAid is packed away for now). They came out a little drier than I would have liked as a result, but they were still very tasty.

    I used to make cinnamon rolls as a kid; I learned how to make them for a 4-H project a long time ago. It had been a while. Thanks for bringing me back to a fun, easy project.

    By the way, I had extra frosting, so I put a dollop on my apple-berry crisp, which I adapted from your breakfast apricot crisp/cobbler. The last bites tasted just like those toaster pastries (the ones with the tangy frosting packets included in the box) we ate as kids… but MUCH better, and much better for me.

  618. Deb, these are truly outrageously delicious. i am now regretting making them because i can’t seem to stop eating them (thank you for not mentioning how many ‘serves’ are in the recipe….one serve? one serve for a glutton like me).
    Sorry. Must stop typing now. The buns are calling my name. They’re getting lonely in the kitchen and must be eaten. (HELP!)

  619. Megan

    I made these cinnamon buns for MY baby announcement today at work. They are still in the kitchen, waiting for the bleery-eyed CPAs and overworked tax accountants to come in…with a sign introducing them saying, “Guess who ELSE has got a bun in the oven…” (We’ve definitely got the “what’s in the water” syndrome going on around here.) Thanks for the great recipe and way to make my announcement!

  620. Amanda

    Can I use 2% milk rather than whole milk? I don’t use whole milk for anything, so I don’t know if I should buy some unless I’ll be able to use it for something else. Does using 2% make a big difference?

  621. After a 27hr shift in the hospital I was craving sticky buns like crazy. So despite my incredibly sleep deprived state, I made yeast leavened ones that turned out beautifully. I hope you’ll check it out–I think you’ll enjoy the photos.

    All best,
    Aron
    http://www.hitherandthither.net

    PS I never knew one could have so many comments!

  622. shannon

    I feel like I have to comment just so I can say to myself and others, “once, I was the 1094th comment on a blog entry.” We all have our little moments of fame. Congrats on the baby, who has already long since been born. My own little bun, who is 6, and I made these buns today. Waiting for the second rising, which is taking a lot longer than anticipated. Little Bun is pretty antsy. Hope they are totally worth the wait!

    1. deb

      No, you can mix the dough by hand with a wooden spoon. A little more work, but also the way bread had been made since the beginning of time. :)

  623. Erica

    Made these twice within the last two weeks, they’re SUPER good. I make the buns the night before through slicing and putting them in the pan, then put them in the fridge overnight. They do the second rise the next morning before I bake them so I can have buns at a reasonable hour and not have to get up at 5am. Works just fine :-)

    The first time I made them I was surprised by how sticky the dough was and ended up adding quite a bit of extra flour. The dough was still a bit sticky, but I was able to make it work and the buns came out good.

    This last time I didn’t add nearly as much extra flour, and the dough was SUPER sticky (I roll it out on floured wax paper and it was sticking like glue to it… pain in the ass), but the rolls came out a lot softer and much better.

    Any ideas on how to get nice soft rolls without the super glue effect?

    1. deb

      Nope. You’ve pretty much figured it out: softer/stickier doughs are more stressful to work with but they produce the best baked goods. Don’t let the stickiness bother you. Flour your counter well, use the flour as a barrier to sticking, not something to knead too much into the dough, and just enjoy that the messiest doughs make the best food.

  624. Lillie

    As I’m planning on making both these and your sweet corn pancakes this week, I attempted to economize on my dairy products at the grocery store yesterday, buying simply a half gallon of buttermilk and planning on replacing the whole milk in these treats with buttermilk – will that work? Or might the acid in the buttermilk mess with the all-important yeast?!

  625. We eat cinnamon rolls frequently, but we use a store bought can, I will be trying to make my own using the recipe you shared. They look like they taste great.

    Thanks for sharing.

  626. lovessugar

    So did you shove the whole recipe into a single 8×8 pan? or did you split it into two as called for? the way you worded it makes it sound like you only used one???

  627. lovessugar

    also, if you used two, do you think they would bake the same in a 9×13? or does that sound too dangerous to try? (overcooked outsides w undercooked middle buns)

  628. deb

    The recipe went into two pans. In theory, they should bake fine in a 9×13 though you might lose a little more shape without those extra sides to hold the spirals in place. I’m sure nobody will mind!

  629. Jen

    Thinking of making these up until they are sliced, then flash freeze them so I can have 1 (or 2) on any given lazy Sunday morning. But thoughts on whether it would work to make the frosting & freeze that in individual portions, too? I’m afraid it might not come back to the right consistency when defrosted and am wondering if anyone has tried this. Am guessing the frosting would only keep about a week in the fridge. Has anyone tried freezing the frosting?

  630. Thank you for this wonderful recipe! I figured on a snowy day here in NH, I have all day to wait until the dough rises! IT was perfect!! ALthough I didn’t size the buns as large as you suggested, the mini-buns were perfect!! Delish!!

    Your photos were wonderful and it helped me finish the process!!
    Thanks again!!

  631. klaud

    im a kid only 15, and ive done some baking cuz i enjoy it, and found some really delicious recipes, i didnt find the recipe i like here the one that i really love. BUT i really love this recipe, and this is one of my top favorites, THANKS. you also have the BEST recipes here.

  632. jsm

    Hi Deb! I tried your recipe for cinnamon swirls today. I followed the recipe to the tee, but after adding the additional 2 1/2 cups of flour, the dough still did not form. So i added more, and more, and more.. until it became a total of SIX CUPS OF FLOUR!!!!????? even after the 6th cup of flour, the dough was STILL STICKY!!! What do you think went wrong??? :( I decided to set it aside to see what happens, and it didn’t rise at all. It was a total failure.. :'(

  633. Kira

    I also made these tonight and found them to be SUPER sticky. I had to add almost two cups extra flour just to get it to the point where it would come out of the Kitchen Aid without sticking to me and the bowl and everything it touched like a big spiderweb! Could someone who has made them explain to me what their dough looked like when it was at the right consistency? I would be very grateful! Mine did rise, so I rolled them out and put the filling on and they’re in the fridge now. I’m going to take them out tomorrow morning and let them do the second rise and hope it turns out. Luckily, they’re for an evening event instead of a morning brunch. I have time to try again if they don’t work out…

  634. klaud

    jsm i think you really did add to much flour after 3 or 2 cups just put the whole dough onto a board and add some more flour like a cup maybe or less and then make rub flour on top of the dough to make it not so sticky, but i found that it has t be a bit sticky and it worked much better, i tried a lot of flower later which came out as a disaster.

  635. Heidi C

    I made these last night. I used 1% milk, ended up using 4 c of flour (an extra .5 cups) because of the stickiness. It was still a bit sticky, but after reading above comments the stickiness seems to be a good thing. I formed the rolls and refrigerated them (without the second rise) in order to bake them this morning. The didn’t rise in the fridge at all, I thought that putting them in the fridge led to a slower, more flavorful rise but I guess not. I put them in the oven this morning anyways, and they baked up nicely. Next time though, I’ll let them complete their second rise before putting them in the fridge overnight.

  636. Thank you so much for such great recipes! I’m not a baker, I didn’t even know how to knead dough until I googled it yesterday night. I posted a photo of the end result in my FB album today so you can see. I’m delighted how they turned out.

    The only type of yeast I had was active dry yeast. After some research, I found you can just put it in the mixture directly, just make sure the milk/butter is b/w 105 and 110 degree and it was good to go. The rise time took forever, but that is the case with active dry yeast – I think I let it rise 5-6 hours the first time. I did everything the night before (rolling & cutting) and left in the fridge to bake in the morning. I took it out for the 2nd rise for about 2 hours (again, slower rise time), and baked them. Delicious – no need for the cream cheese frosting! I did make half the frosting recipe for the kids though and couldn’t help but sneak a frosted one on my plate.

    Love you site – it’s my go to for the most part. Again, THANK YOU!!

  637. Dani

    Just made these today! Unfortunately, they weren’t ready until 5pm, which is due to a combination of waking up late (extremely late…I never get to sleep in) and me not caring that the dough would take 3-4 hours to rise. I would suggest making the dough the night before, as previously mentioned, to cut some of that time off. Otherwise, Delicious!!!!

  638. Emily

    Just made these! They turned out absooluuutely fannntastic. I added a 1 1/2 TBS orange zest to the cinnamon/sugar mixture and 2 TBS orange juice to the cream cheese icing. I cooked one part in a 9″ anodized aluminum pan ( came out the best and biggest) and the other nine rolls in my 8×8 glass pyrex… also came out sooo yummy.
    I ended up doing everything last night up until rolling them and placing in pans. I refrigerated them covered in saran, then in the morning I pulled them out and let them come to room temp and do their second rise. I gave them three hours total to come to room temp and rise, but ended up being 3 1/2 to 4 hours b/c I waited to preheat the oven. Glad I gave them lots of time, came out fluffy and lovely! MMMM
    Thanks!!

  639. Emily

    Deb,
    Is it possible to use a different type of yeast that will rise in the refrigerator? So that It can rise over night and be baked when I wake up? I read (and experienced) that rapid rise doesn’t, but thought maybe active dry would, and if so would this mess up the recipe somehow?
    Thanks!!!

    1. deb

      Emily — All yeasts rise in the fridge, but very slowly. You could very likely put this dough as it is in the fridge overnight, and finish the proofing at room temperature in the morning.

  640. Diem

    I’ve made this several times now, usually when we have weekend guests. I always make it the night before and take out the next morning for the second rise. I’ll wake up early in the morning and put it by a room heater on low heat to speed up the second rise. Works like a charm. The first time I made it, I sliced them small…but now I like to make thick cuts for puffier buns. A batch going into the oven now.

  641. Lizzyd

    I’ve made these a couple times now, but most recently added a heaping 1/2 c of finely chopped walnuts to the filling. Adds a nice little crunch and a smidge of protein. (also, I’ve done the second rise in the fridge overnight, too, and it works great) Thanks for this and the many recipes of yours I use all the time!

  642. These. were. unBElievABLE. I made them, ate them, ate more, blogged about them, then decided I wasn’t safe until I gave the rest of the leftovers away.

    I love searching your archives. I’m going to make your Cheddar & Apple scones for my Everything But the Turkey Potluck this weekend.

    Many thanks for your brilliant work :)

  643. Also, I made your honeycake for Rosh Hashana this year. From now until forever, I will be gifting my newly engaged Jewish friends with beautiful bundt pans and this recipe.

  644. Kim

    Can these be made to the point of putting them in the pan and then freeze them? I wanted to make them ahead of time to bring them to a siblings house for Christmas. If I could freeze them, do they then need to be brought to room temp before baking or bake straight from the freezer with added time? Thanks for your help.

  645. Heloisa

    Deb, congratulations on your website, I love it!
    I’ve been wanting to cook these cinnamon buns, but I don’t thing we have Rapid rise nor instant yeast in Brazil… is there anything that could replace it?

    1. deb

      Heloisa — Can you get instant yeast or bread machine yeast? They’re all the same, i.e. instant = bread machine = rapid rise, just different names.

  646. BG

    I’m making these right now in my college apartment, me and my room mates can’t wait to eat them at 1 am lol. Food makes the college memories that much better! Thanks for all the recipes :)

  647. Amy in the Alps

    Woke up with this recipe in my head. Had some help cutting wood today, so it worked out as ‘payment’ for the help. I showed these Swiss guys how a *real* cinnamon bun tastes! They almost couldn’t stop! We polished off both 9″ squares, except for 2 buns. As i am due to have a baby somewhere around this coming Saturday, i will be happy for some tastiness tomorrow morning.

  648. jen

    just made these for mother’s day. put orange zest in the dough and juice in the glaze and made a strawberry rhubarb filling. they were insanely good! three of us managed to polish off most of the buns…

  649. Pip

    Hi Deb – my name is Pip and I live in Melbourne, Australia. Just wanted to let you know that I recently discovered your blog and am officially addicted!
    I’m 21 and over the past few months have become an avid foodie. Last night I attempted these cinnamon buns and they were amazing to say the least – beautiful, light and sweet.
    Thank you for all the yummy recipes, I’m sure I’ll be trying more soon!

  650. Pegi

    I love your whole site…the way your write it, the love of foods, the recipes….by far the most interesting and intriguing one I have visited. I will be trying your recipes….your site reminds me of a person from the 50’s figuring out what to make for dessert, supper, lunch or treats….and talking about it with friends.
    Do not change it…

  651. Daisy

    I made these yesterday – I made half the rolls with walnuts and sultanas, and half with pure cinnamon sugar (to keep my 4-year old happy) – they were just delicious! I thought there might be one or two left for breakfast this morning but somehow we polished off all 18 yesterday!

  652. Jess

    Hi,
    I wanted to ask your advice on this recipe. I just made these cinnamon rolls but they didn’t rise at all. I have no clue as to why, do you happen to have any tips or tricks for troubleshooting?

    1. deb

      Jess — Are you certain you used the right kind of yeast? If so, I’d just let them rise longer. Instant yeast (despite its quick-sounding name) can be slow, and the rising times are just estimates.

  653. I enjoy your blog very much, Deb. I only discovered it a couple months ago and I have been having so much fun reading your posts, and in fact it has inspired me to have my own blog. Which I have not updated in several weeks.

    I just made cinnamon rolls for my New Year’s Day brunch, from the America’s Test Kitchen recipe, which was pretty good – a bit dry. I wanted them to be moister – I think I added a bit too much flour, but on the plus side, a couple teaspoons of freshly ground cardamom mixed into the dough added a special something (of happiness).

  654. Danielle

    Long time fan and reader of this site! Just made these today and I was wondering if you can give me some suggestions to making these more gooey, sticky and less doughy? My boyfriend (a true cinnamon bun afficianado says that these are “real good” but I was hoping for something more oozing and sticky).

    I followed the recipe exactly, using timers, fresh ingredients, perfect measurements and an oven thermometer. The only place where it was hard to gauge if I over-did it was the kneading (although I timed it 8 minutes).

    Maybe I should add more butter? Perhaps lower the baking to 350? Should the dough be stickier? Mine rolled out like a charm, but I’ve read that the more moisture and stickiness in the dough before it goes in the oven, the stickier the end product?

    Would love some suggestions. Thank you for the recipe!

  655. Kristi

    Danielle – for oozy gooey cinnamon buns, I’ve always looked to Cinnabon! A stickier/lower flour dough will always be softer but if you want true disgustingly gooey bun, look to the filling! Butter and sugar are your friends, hahaha. (Most Cinnabon stand stores will roll their buns out in front of customers – I’m pretty sure they use lard for their filling, and about two cups of it to boot!)

    On a different note, I, too, found myself having difficulty getting the dough to rise. Most of the other cinnamon bun recipes I’ve tried call for two packets of yeast? I fixed my problem by keeping them in a 170 degree oven – it took about 45 minutes for the second rise.

  656. Virginia

    In case anyone looks this far back and down, I used the suggested “cranberry-orange breakfast buns” dough recipe to make these with the cinnamon swirl filling. They were delicious and so tall! Everyone loved them! I’ll definitely be saving this recipe!

  657. Biljana

    I love your Blog, the pictures are always great and so helpful especially when I’m making something for the first time :). The cinnamon rolls came out great! I will for sure try your cranberry orange version next time since you say they are even better.

    Thanks for writing and sharing your cooking experiences with us!

  658. Lily

    Hi Deb, been lurking for several years actually. Long before the baby news. Just wanted to tell you, I’m helping my sister put her coffee shop “on the map” here in Canada and we’re making these buns ( and your salted brown butter squares) the signature item. If you are ever in Calgary, AB stop in. :-D

  659. I just made these this weekend and have now put this recipe at the top of my list as far as what to make when I’m craving cinnamon rolls. They turned out spectacular. AND – this glaze/frosting is absolute perfection. So simple, and the perfect balance of sweet and creamy without being too runny. Absolutely delicious.

  660. brooklynjen

    Deb, maybe you can help – I have an ideal in my mind of cinnamon rolls where the roll is very yeasty and not very sweet or rich, and all the sweetness and richness comes from the filling and glaze. I used to eat these in college from UFM up near Columbia (and nope, they don’t seem to make them anymore, sadly) – any suggestions? Most of the recipes I see have quite a rich dough as the base, which is just a different kind of cinnamon roll. I tried using a potato dinner roll dough as the base but that wasn’t quite right either. Any suggestions? Thanks!

    1. deb

      brooklynjen — Well, first, this is actually my go-to dough for cinnamon buns and others these days; it just works really well and it hard to mess up. There are instructions there for apple or apple-cinnamon rolls too. Of course, that wasn’t your question. It’s still a very rich dough. You could definitely just leave the sugar out, only having it in the filling — a prospect which appeals to me too, since I really prefer some contrast in sweet things. Or, you might try a challah dough, which is rich but still a little more bready-y than typical cinnamon rolls. Challah isn’t more than faintly sweet, but I suppose you could use less sugar if you wish.

    1. deb

      shelly — I would probably do the first rise the night before, and the second one in the fridge overnight. You can bake them in the morning, maybe just let them warm up for 30 minutes first while you preheat the oven.

  661. Beth

    Clearly I’m the last person to discover these, but not the first to love them. I made them this morning for Father’s Day and it’s possible my husband ate three without pausing for air. This is the quickest, easiest cinnamon roll recipe … big surprise … and my new go-to. I can *almost* make them on a whim instead of having to plan a day ahead. Can’t wait to finish off the leftovers tomorrow!

  662. Elle

    Hey There,
    Can I put these in the refrigerator overnight before the second rise and then take them out in the morning and let them rise for about an hour before I bake them? thanks and congrats!

    1. deb

      Daniela — I’m hoping someone else will chime in. I’ve been wanting to get started with one, but haven’t practiced enough to offer advice. Good luck!

  663. Seth Ellis

    Hi Deb, maybe someone has already suggested this but one way to avoid your rolls from drying out too quickly is to incorporate tangzhong, a simple technique used in Japanese milk bread. You mix a small amount of flour, milk, and water (3-5 tablespoons each?) and heat over low heat until the liquid is absorbed. Then mix that into your recipe as normal.

    I use your recipe frequently with this addition and you’ll get rolls that last 2-3 days longer!

  664. Made these last night, yummy!!! My new favorite. I put the baked, iced rolls in the fridge and warmed each individually the next day. Came out nice and soft like they were just baked.

  665. Brandie

    Made these and they were super scrumptious. I can be somewhat impulsive and I skipped the double rise and thet were a little tough. (I recall while watching the great american baking show that this can happen of you don’t proof enough.) Making again as I type this. In the stage of the first proof.

  666. Amy Louise

    These rolls were AMAZING.
    I’ve tried many recipes and had lots of failed attempts, but these were perect on the first try. The icing is also to die for. Thank you so much!
    Adding a little cinnamon to the dough goes a long way, too.

  667. Rachel

    I make these every year for Christmas…one pan for us, one for my in – laws, one for my mom and one for our neighbors. They are delicious!

  668. MJ Matsushita

    question: I have to travel with these cinnamon rolls. my question is, at what point can I freeze the buns, for defrosting, and baking. I was thinking putting in for freezing after forming them into roll pans. after getting to location let them defrost, rise and then bake. Does this sound like it would work?
    thanks

    1. deb

      When do you want to bake them? A week from now? Longer? If just a couple days, the fridge should hold them. I might freeze them otherwise before or after slicing from the filled log. Then you can let it defrost and finish proofing before baking.

  669. Sofia

    If I freeze them right before going into the oven can I bake them straight from the freezer? Also, if I halve the recipe does the baking time remain the same? Thank you very much!

  670. I’m new to baking cinnamon rolls and this was my first attempt. I found that baking for 20 minutes was too long and dried the rolls out. The filling was more dry than what I was anticipating. Still on the hunt for a recipe where the rolls are super soft and the filing is gooey.

  671. Kat

    Could you pre assemble the buns and then bake the day you want them? Or freeze the dough? Just thinking how to bot have to do it all at once since it requires a lot of time!

  672. Monica Kamen

    Hi Deb! I absolutely love everything you make.

    For the cinnamon rolls, could I put the dough in the fridge overnight for the first rise, and then come back in the morning for the assembly and second rise?

    Thanks for all you do!

  673. Amy Beck

    First time making cinnamon rolls! The process was easy, thanks to your incredible instructions {thanks!!}. I had to improvise {no plastic wrap, didn’t have enough time to rest after a night in the refrigerator}, but still, delicious!!!

  674. Ashley W

    I just made these. They are very good. Took a bit longer than 2 hours for the first rise. I did half in a 9×9 Pyrex dish and the other in a round metal cake pan. The ones in the cake pan raised more but they also cooked faster. Cooked for 20 minutes. Wish I had checked them before. But still good. I will check earlier next time if using a metal pan.

  675. Kim

    Made these yesterday evening and baked them this morning. The recipe, as always, was straightforward and easy to follow. I didn’t get a great second rise but they were delicious nonetheless. I look forward to making them again.

  676. Sarah

    I made this yesterday following the dough recipe here because I find Debs new preferred recipe from the cranberry orange buns to be too eggy.

    I cut my roll into 16 pieces which I think turned out perfect – they fit into 8 inch round pans and were a great height. So if you make this recipe, cut 16 not 18.

    1. deb

      Not a hand mixer for kneading, but you can knead by hand or in a bowl. A dough scraper can help. It will be sticky but try to resist adding more flour. You want to keep the dough sticky.

  677. Dina

    Hi Deb,
    If I want to make this over two days and refrigerate the dough overnight- what should I do? Do I need to let the dough out of the fridge the next day and rest for a few hours?

  678. Jenny

    I know these are old, but I wanted something a little less rich than the other buns posted. I was worried about the “toughness” that others noted, so I added one extra egg yolk. The dough was perfect for my liking, if a little sweet. The buns I cooked in a glass pan turned out nicer than the ones in a parchment lined metal tin. I also kept the glass pan batch in the fridge over night and then baked in the morning, after letting them come to room temp for about 45 minutes. Both batches got browner on the top than I would have liked. I sliced a little thicker — about 15 pieces as opposed to 18. I skipped the icing!

  679. Barbara McCahan

    Christmas morning,,, 2020. A family tradition to bake cinnamon rolls and I usually use a very old recipe from “Bread Making with Della” circa 1980. It was my mother’s cookbook and I was a young mother myself. Today as I got up for an early start on the rolls, I realized that I had no powdered milk (a required ingredient). So I jumped right into my super reliable Smitten Kitchen web site and found this recipe, for which I did have all the ingredients. Thank you again for your wonderful work and recipes. The love shows.
    May you be safe, well and prosperous in 2021.

  680. Sengkelat

    Made these. Doubled the glazing because sugar is good.
    Used unsalted butter and 1tsp kosher salt in the dough which ended up in a roll that needs more salt. Overall pretty good though.
    Tips for next time, roll the rectangle out much bigger than 11×15; wider means taller rolls, longer means more spirals, both of which are fine.
    When rolling them up, roll tightly so the filling doesn’t all spill out.
    Make sure to put something under the rack when flipping them out to avoid having to clean the counter.
    Note the infinite comments and Deb’s infinitely patient answers that the process can be slowed or paused at any time in the fridge or freezer. I mean, probably not the baking process, but the rising process. So these can be prepped to be easily popped in the oven the next morning.

    Or, use https://smittenkitchen.com/2013/11/cranberry-orange-breakfast-buns/ recipe which is from 6 years later and Deb recommends.
    Or search for the sticky buns recipe.

  681. Leh-Sih

    I would love to bake your cinnamon buns fresh for breakfast when we have guests so I was wondering if I should
    -refidgerate them overnight, once thee rolled & cut dough have been arranged in the baking pans & covered.
    -remove from the fridge for at least 2 hrs to allow them to warm up and rise before baking, cooling and glazing