Cinnamon Rolls

I still remember the first time I tried baking cinnamon rolls. It was a cold Saturday morning, and the smell of rising dough and cinnamon sugar made my kitchen feel like a cozy little bakery. The rolls didn’t look perfect, but they tasted heavenly—soft, warm, and dripping with gooey frosting. That moment sparked my love for baking from scratch, and over time, I’ve learned how to make this recipe as beginner-friendly as possible.

These homemade cinnamon rolls are designed for first-time bakers. With simple ingredients, one easy rise, and no fancy equipment needed, they offer that classic bakery-style taste without the stress. Whether you’re baking for a weekend brunch, holiday treat, or just a cozy morning at home, this quick and healthy(ish) meal is a sweet way to start.

Why This Recipe is Special

What sets these cinnamon rolls apart is their beautiful balance of flavor and ease. Instead of requiring hours of resting and rising, this version uses a single rise and instant yeast to speed up the process without sacrificing fluffiness. A blend of milk and water gives the dough richness and tenderness, and the cream cheese frosting melts perfectly over the warm rolls, creating a gooey finish that rivals any café pastry. Even if you’ve never touched yeast before, this is the recipe to start with.

Ingredients and Preparation

Here’s what you’ll need to bring these dreamy rolls to life—and why each ingredient matters.

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the dough. It gives structure while keeping things light and airy. Bread flour can also be used if you want chewier rolls.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough and helps activate the yeast.
• Instant yeast: The beginner’s best friend. No need to proof it—just mix and go.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Water and whole milk: The perfect combo for moisture and softness. Milk adds richness, while water keeps the dough from getting too heavy.
• Unsalted butter: Used in the dough, filling, and frosting. It adds tenderness and a rich, buttery flavor.
• Egg: Adds structure and extra richness to the dough.
• Brown sugar: Essential for that caramel-like cinnamon swirl. Light or dark both work well.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice. Make sure it’s fresh for maximum aroma.
• Cream cheese: Forms the base of the tangy-sweet frosting. Adds a luscious texture.
• Powdered sugar: Melts into the frosting without grittiness.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the icing.
• Salt (just a pinch in the icing): Balances sweetness.

Ingredient Swaps for Flexibility

• No whole milk? Use any milk or non-dairy milk (like oat or almond).
• No cream cheese? Make a simple glaze with powdered sugar and milk instead.
• Want to go dairy-free? Use vegan butter and plant-based milk.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour (start with about three cups), sugar, instant yeast, and salt until evenly combined.

Step 2
In a separate bowl or saucepan, gently heat the water, milk, and butter until the butter is just melted and the mixture is warm—not hot—to the touch. If you stick your finger in, it should feel comfortably warm (about body temperature).

Step 3
Whisk the egg into the warm milk mixture, then pour it over the dry ingredients. Stir until a sticky dough forms.

Step 4
Gradually add more flour, about half a cup at a time, until the dough pulls away from the bowl and forms a soft ball. It should still feel slightly tacky, but not stick to your fingers.

Step 5
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You’ll know it’s ready when it springs back slightly when poked.

Step 6
Cover the dough and let it rest for 20 minutes. This isn’t a full rise—just enough time to relax the gluten and make rolling easier.

Step 7
Roll the dough into a 14×10-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter all over, then sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon.

Step 8
Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log. Cut into 12 even pieces using unflavored dental floss (it’s cleaner than using a knife).

Step 9
Place the rolls cut-side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 45 minutes, or until puffed and touching.

Step 10
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown on top. Meanwhile, prepare the icing by beating cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

Step 11
Let the rolls cool for 5 to 10 minutes, then spread the frosting generously while they’re still warm for maximum gooeyness.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Dough too dry? You may have added too much flour. Always start low and add gradually. Use the “spoon and level” method to avoid overpacking flour.
• No rise? Check your yeast’s expiration date and ensure your liquids weren’t too hot (which can kill yeast).
• Too sticky to knead? Dust your hands and surface lightly with flour, but avoid adding too much.
• Floss for the win: Dental floss is the easiest way to slice rolls without squishing them.

Efficient Prep Tip: Measure and set all your ingredients out before you begin (mise en place style). This reduces stress and mess.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these cinnamon rolls with:

• A hot mug of coffee or chai latte
• Fresh berries or a citrus fruit salad to balance the sweetness
• Scrambled eggs for a hearty brunch spread

Leftover Storage: Keep covered at room temperature for one day, or refrigerate for up to three. To reheat, warm in a 350°F oven with a splash of milk over each roll and foil on top.

Share the Joy: Let’s Bake Together

If you’ve been nervous about baking with yeast or think homemade cinnamon rolls are too complicated—this is your sign to go for it. This recipe has helped countless beginners gain confidence in the kitchen, and it’s my hope it’ll do the same for you.

Try it out and let me know how your cinnamon rolls turn out in the comments below. Share your baking moments, tweaks, or questions—I’m always here to help. You’ve got this!

FAQ About Soft and Gooey Cinnamon Rolls for Beginners

More Relevant Recipes

• The Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
• Lemon Rolls
• Easy Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Print