Few baked goods capture the heart and senses quite like cinnamon rolls. With their soft, pillowy dough, rich swirls of warm cinnamon sugar, and luscious cream cheese frosting, these classic treats are more than just a breakfast indulgence—they’re a nostalgic experience. Whether you’re baking for a holiday brunch, a cozy weekend morning, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these homemade cinnamon rolls deliver unbeatable flavor, aroma, and texture.
Unlike store-bought versions, these rolls are made from scratch with simple pantry staples, ensuring a fresher, more flavorful result. The combination of sweet cinnamon, buttery dough, and velvety glaze makes this recipe a must-have in your baking repertoire.
Table of Contents
Ingredients and Their Roles
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the structure and body of the rolls. Use unbleached for best texture.
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast – Helps the dough rise and gives the rolls their light, fluffy texture.
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F) – Activates the yeast and adds richness.
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar – Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness to the dough.
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds moisture and flavor to the dough.
- 1 tsp salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- 2 large eggs – Add richness, structure, and a tender crumb.
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed – Offers a deep, molasses-rich sweetness.
- 2½ tbsp ground cinnamon – The star of the show, it adds warmth and spice.
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened – Helps the cinnamon-sugar mixture melt into the dough as it bakes.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened – Adds tangy richness and a creamy texture.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened – Makes the frosting smooth and spreadable.
- 1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- ½ tsp vanilla extract – Adds depth and aroma.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and salt.
- Add the foamy yeast mixture to the bowl.
- Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Make the Cinnamon Filling
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Set aside the softened butter for spreading later.
3. Assemble the Rolls
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 16×12-inch rectangle.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously across the buttered surface.
- Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Slice into 12 equal rolls and place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cover and let rise for another 30–45 minutes, or until puffy.
4. Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 22–25 minutes, or until golden brown and baked through.
- Remove and let cool slightly while preparing the frosting.
5. Make the Frosting
- Beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Spread over warm rolls for a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth finish.
Why Everyone Loves These Cinnamon Rolls
These cinnamon rolls are loved for their perfect balance of soft dough, spiced filling, and creamy frosting. The aroma of cinnamon and sugar baking is irresistibly inviting, and the taste delivers every time. Whether served warm with coffee or enjoyed as a dessert, these rolls have a homemade charm that bakery versions just can’t match.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Rolls
- Use room temperature ingredients for even mixing and better rise.
- Don’t over-flour the dough; a slightly sticky dough yields softer rolls.
- Slice the rolls with unflavored dental floss for clean cuts without squishing.
- For overnight rolls, refrigerate the assembled rolls after step 3, then bring them to room temperature and let them rise before baking the next day.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your warm cinnamon rolls with:
- Freshly brewed coffee or chai tea for a cozy breakfast pairing.
- Fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing contrast.
- Maple-glazed bacon for a savory-sweet brunch spread.
Final Thoughts: Why This Cinnamon Roll Recipe Wins Every Time
This easy cinnamon roll recipe combines timeless flavor with homemade warmth. With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and indulgent results, it’s ideal for both beginners and seasoned bakers. These rolls are everything a cinnamon roll should be—soft, gooey, sweet, and unforgettable. If you’re looking to bake the best cinnamon rolls that taste like they’re straight from a bakery (or better), this is the recipe that will earn you rave reviews every time.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
1. Can I make cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls the night before. After assembling and placing them in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature and rise for about 45–60 minutes before baking as directed. This makes for a stress-free breakfast or brunch.
2. Why didn’t my cinnamon rolls rise properly?
If your rolls didn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast, liquid that was too hot, or a cool room temperature. Make sure your milk is around 105°F to 110°F, and always check the expiration date on your yeast. Also, allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place for the best results.
3. Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely. You can freeze baked or unbaked cinnamon rolls:
For unbaked rolls, assemble them, then freeze the whole pan before the second rise. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge, then allow to rise at room temperature before baking.
For baked rolls, freeze them individually (without frosting) and reheat in the oven or microwave. Add fresh frosting after reheating.
4. What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?
If you don’t have cream cheese or prefer a different flavor, try using:
Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese for a tangy alternative.
Vanilla buttercream frosting for a sweeter, lighter topping.
Maple glaze (made with powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk) for a warm, spiced finish.
Each variation offers a unique twist while still complementing the cinnamon filling beautifully.
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