Step 1

Lightly grease a fluted tube pan (such as Bundt®) with vegetable oil.

Step 2

Combine warm water, yeast, and 1 teaspoon sugar in a large bowl. Let stand until bubbly and foamy, about 5 minutes.

Step 3

Stir in 1 cup flour, warm milk, egg, 3 tablespoons sugar, butter, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix well before adding remaining 2 1/2 cups flour. Mix and knead until dough comes together in a ball. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.

Step 4

Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and punch down gently to deflate. Divide dough into small or medium balls.

Step 5

Mix brown sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl. Dip each dough ball in melted butter, remove with a fork, and roll in sugar mixture until well coated. Arrange in the prepared pan. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let rise until almost doubled, about 45 minutes.

Step 6

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Step 7

Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 35 minutes. Invert onto a large plate; cool for 10 minutes before serving.