Cinnamon Rolls

There’s something undeniably magical about homemade Cinnamon Rolls—the rich aroma of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen, the pillowy soft dough, and the indulgent cream cheese glaze melting into every swirl. Whether it’s a holiday morning tradition or a weekend baking project, cinnamon rolls bring warmth, comfort, and nostalgia to any table.

This beloved pastry features a sweet, yeast-leavened dough that’s rolled up with a buttery cinnamon-sugar filling and baked to golden perfection. The final touch—a creamy glaze or frosting—adds just the right amount of sweetness and makes every bite utterly irresistible. While they may seem complicated, cinnamon rolls are surprisingly approachable, especially with a clear step-by-step guide.

From brunch spreads and birthday mornings to cozy afternoons with coffee, cinnamon rolls are a treat that suits any occasion. Their soft, gooey texture and rich flavor make them a favorite for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re new to baking or an experienced home cook, this recipe is designed to help you make bakery-quality rolls right in your own kitchen. Prepare to fall in love with this timeless classic all over again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Soft, Fluffy Texture: Tender dough that’s light and airy yet rich with buttery flavor.
2. Irresistible Cinnamon Swirl: A sweet-spicy filling that melts into every bite.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion: From breakfast to dessert, these rolls never go out of style.
4. Customizable Toppings: Choose between cream cheese frosting, vanilla glaze, or even maple icing.
5. Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the night before and bake fresh in the morning.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Salt
• Active dry yeast
• Whole milk
• Unsalted butter
• Eggs
• Ground cinnamon
• Cream cheese
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract

Variations

• Maple Pecan Rolls: Add chopped pecans and a maple glaze for a fall-inspired twist.
• Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the filling for extra decadence.
• Vegan Cinnamon Rolls: Use plant-based milk, butter, and cream cheese for a dairy-free version.
• Orange Cinnamon Rolls: Add orange zest to the dough and icing for a citrusy spin.
• Mini Rolls: Make bite-sized versions perfect for brunch boards or snacks.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Make the Dough

Warm the milk and mix with yeast and a bit of sugar. Let sit until foamy. Add eggs, melted butter, and remaining sugar. Gradually mix in the flour and salt to form a soft dough.

Step 2: Knead and Let Rise

Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, then place in a greased bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 3: Make the Filling

Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon into a thick paste.

Step 4: Roll and Fill

Roll the dough into a large rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly, then roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into equal pieces.

Step 5: Second Rise

Place rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.

Step 6: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.

Step 8: Frost and Serve

Spread the frosting over warm rolls and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use room-temperature ingredients for easier mixing and better dough texture.
• Don’t over-flour the dough—it should be soft and slightly sticky.
• Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot for best results.
• Use dental floss to cut the rolls cleanly without squishing them.
• Frost while the rolls are warm so the glaze melts into every swirl.

How to Serve

• Warm with Coffee or Tea: Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.
• With Fresh Fruit: Balance the sweetness with berries or sliced oranges.
• On a Brunch Buffet: A standout addition to any brunch spread.
• With Ice Cream: Turn it into dessert with a scoop of vanilla on top.
• Individually Wrapped: Great for gifting or on-the-go breakfasts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Freeze unbaked rolls after shaping or fully baked (without frosting). Wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking or reheating.

Reheating

Microwave individual rolls for 20–30 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 8–10 minutes. Add extra icing after reheating, if desired.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough the night before?

Yes! After shaping the rolls, refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.

2. What type of yeast should I use?

Active dry or instant yeast both work. Instant yeast may rise slightly faster.

3. Can I use a stand mixer?

Absolutely. Use the dough hook to knead for about 5–7 minutes.

4. What if my dough doesn’t rise?

Check that your yeast is fresh and the milk wasn’t too hot (which can kill yeast).

5. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Roll the dough tightly and pinch the seam closed to hold the filling in.

6. Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, but results may vary. Use a 1:1 gluten-free blend designed for yeast baking.

7. How thick should I cut the rolls?

Cut into 1½ to 2-inch slices for perfectly sized portions.

8. Why are my rolls dry?

Overbaking or adding too much flour can make them dry. Bake until just golden.

9. Can I use a different frosting?

Yes! Try maple glaze, vanilla icing, or even caramel drizzle.

10. Can I make mini cinnamon rolls?

Yes—roll the dough thinner and slice into smaller pieces. Reduce baking time slightly.

Conclusion

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls are more than just a sweet treat—they’re a cozy ritual, a reason to slow down and savor. With their soft, buttery layers and rich cinnamon filling, topped with luscious cream cheese frosting, they’re guaranteed to impress every time. Whether you’re baking them for a crowd or just to treat yourself, this recipe delivers classic flavor with bakery-quality results right from your own oven. Once you try these cinnamon rolls, you may never want store-bought again.

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