Cinnamon Rolls

Name: Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup warm milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 egg; 1/2 cup packed brown sugar; 2 tbsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling); 4 oz cream cheese; 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for icing); 1 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 pinch salt; 1–2 tbsp milk (for icing)

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There’s something magical about a batch of freshly baked cinnamon rolls—the warm scent of cinnamon and sugar wafting through your kitchen, the soft and gooey center, and that dreamy cream cheese icing melting into every swirl. Whether you’re making them for a cozy weekend breakfast, holiday brunch, or just because your sweet tooth said so, this cinnamon rolls recipe is easy, fail-proof, and addictively delicious. You’ll love how soft, fluffy, and flavorful these rolls are, with simple ingredients and no complicated steps.

Why These Cinnamon Rolls Always Hit the Spot

Homemade cinnamon rolls are the ultimate comfort food—soft, sweet, and slathered with icing. This recipe is a go-to because it’s beginner-friendly and flexible enough for bakers of all levels. Whether you’re baking them overnight for a brunch crowd or whipping up a batch on a chilly afternoon, they always deliver:

Soft & Fluffy: Thanks to a simple yeast dough that’s easy to work with.
Rich Cinnamon Swirl: The perfect blend of brown sugar and cinnamon for deep flavor.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Thick, tangy, and not too sweet—the finishing touch that makes these unforgettable.
Versatile & Customizable: You can tweak it for different diets, add-ins, or even bake ahead and freeze.

These cinnamon rolls bring joy with every bite, and they’re surprisingly easy to pull off even if you’re new to baking.

What You’ll Need for the Best Cinnamon Rolls

The magic of these homemade cinnamon rolls lies in simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

Dough

All-purpose flour: The foundation of soft yet structured rolls.
Instant yeast: Gives rise and airiness; skip proofing for faster prep.
Sugar: Adds sweetness and feeds the yeast for a good rise.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Warm milk: Activates the yeast and adds richness to the dough.
Unsalted butter (melted): Adds moisture and buttery flavor.
Egg: Provides structure and softness.

Filling

Brown sugar (packed): Deep, caramel-like sweetness for that classic gooey center.
Ground cinnamon: The star spice—warm, sweet, and comforting.
Softened butter: Helps the sugar-spice blend stick to the dough.

Cream Cheese Icing

Cream cheese: Adds tangy creaminess and body.
Softened butter: Makes the icing spreadable and rich.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens without grittiness.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the icing’s depth.
Milk: Adjusts consistency for spreading or drizzling.
Salt: Rounds out the sweetness.

Ingredient Swaps and Add-Ins You’ll Love

If you’re missing something or want to try a twist on the classic, here are some easy swaps and ideas to customize:

Dough & Dairy Alternatives

Bread flour: Swap in 1 cup for extra chew and structure.
Gluten-free flour blend: Use a 1:1 GF mix for a gluten-free version.
Almond or oat milk: Works well in place of whole milk.
Vegan butter or plant-based cream cheese: Perfect for dairy-free cinnamon rolls.

Flavor Boosters

Pumpkin pie spice: Adds warm depth if you’re low on cinnamon.
Orange zest: A pinch adds brightness (use sparingly).
Chopped pecans or walnuts: Add crunch to the filling.
Raisins or chocolate chips: Fold in for texture and sweetness.

How to Make Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch

Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Stir in warm milk, melted butter, and egg until a sticky dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 6–8 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Make the Filling
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it into a rectangle (approx. 16″ x 10″). Spread softened butter evenly across the dough, then sprinkle on the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Roll and Slice
Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into 12 even rolls using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss for clean cuts.
Second Rise
Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy.
Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 22–25 minutes, until golden on top but still soft inside. Avoid overbaking to preserve the gooey center.
Make the Icing
Beat together cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt. Add milk a little at a time until the icing is spreadable. Spread over warm rolls so it melts into every swirl.

Expert Tips for Soft and Gooey Cinnamon Rolls

Use warm—not hot—milk to activate the yeast without killing it.
Let the dough rise until doubled, even if it takes longer—this creates fluffier rolls.
Sticky dough is okay: Add flour a tablespoon at a time if it’s too tacky.
Don’t overbake: Remove rolls when they’re just golden for a soft, gooey middle.
Frost while warm: So the icing melts into every layer for max indulgence.

Cinnamon Roll Variations and Serving Ideas

Cinnamon rolls are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides and flavors. Try these:

Apple Cinnamon Rolls: Add chopped apples to the filling.
Pecan Sticky Buns: Swap the icing for a brown sugar glaze and chopped pecans.
Pumpkin Spice Rolls: Mix pumpkin purée into the dough and use pumpkin spice.
Mini Rolls: Make 18 smaller rolls instead of 12 for bite-sized portions.
Serve with: Fruit salad, fresh berries, hot coffee, or cold milk.

Make-Ahead & Freezer Tips

Overnight Cinnamon Rolls: Assemble the rolls after the first rise, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bring to room temp for 45–60 minutes before baking.
Freezing: Freeze baked rolls without icing. Wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months. Reheat and frost before serving.

Cinnamon Rolls That Fit Your Lifestyle

Want a slightly healthier take? These easy changes still give you all the cozy cinnamon roll flavor:

Reduce sugar by 10–15% without sacrificing taste.
Swap part of the flour for whole wheat for added fiber.
Add flax or chia seeds to the dough for a subtle nutrition boost.
Use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter icing option.

Even with healthier tweaks, the flavor and indulgence of these homemade cinnamon rolls remain irresistible.

Conclusion: Why This Cinnamon Rolls Recipe Will Become a Staple in Your Kitchen

There’s something timeless and deeply satisfying about a pan of warm, soft, homemade cinnamon rolls. This recipe isn’t just foolproof—it’s flexible, family-approved, and incredibly delicious. From the tender dough to the rich cinnamon filling and that creamy, melt-in-your-mouth icing, every element hits the right note of comfort and indulgence.

Whether you’re baking for a weekend treat, a holiday brunch, or just because, these cinnamon rolls will quickly become your signature bake. The process is as rewarding as the results, and the aroma alone is worth every minute spent in the kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Rolls

1. Can I Make These Cinnamon Rolls the Night Before?

Yes! After rolling and cutting the cinnamon rolls, place them in a greased pan, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, remove the pan from the fridge and let the rolls rise at room temperature for about 45–60 minutes before baking as usual. This makes them perfect for stress-free holiday mornings or brunches.

2. How Do I Store Leftover Cinnamon Rolls?

Store your baked cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, microwave for 15–20 seconds. For longer storage, freeze unfrosted rolls wrapped tightly in plastic and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat before adding fresh icing.

3. Why Are My Cinnamon Rolls Dry or Dense?

The most common reasons for dry or dense cinnamon rolls are overbaking or adding too much flour. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky, not stiff. Also, ensure your yeast is active and your liquids are warm (not hot) to get the proper rise. Lastly, don’t skip the second proof—this helps make the rolls light and fluffy.

More Relevant Recipes

Vegan Cinnamon Sugar Knots: A delicious plant-based twist on a classic flavor combination, these cinnamon sugar knots are soft, sweet, and perfect for those who love the cozy spices of cinnamon rolls but want a dairy-free, egg-free option.
Apple and Cinnamon Porridge: Start your morning with this warming, spiced porridge that mirrors the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls. It’s hearty, naturally sweetened with apples, and ideal for cold mornings when you crave something cozy.
Soft Baked Cinnamon Roll Cookies: These cookies are inspired by classic cinnamon rolls, featuring swirled cinnamon sugar in a soft cookie form. They’re perfect for snacking or gifting during the holidays, offering the same sweet flavor in a handheld treat.

Cinnamon Rolls – Best Homemade Recipe (Easy & Soft!)

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