Cinnamon Rolls Recipe: These soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls with gooey cinnamon filling and sweet icing are perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Hey there! Let’s get ready to bake the most amazing cinnamon rolls your tongue will ever taste.
This recipe is simple to follow even if you’re new to baking.
Get ready for warm, pillowy rolls filled with the perfect cinnamon-sugar swirl and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting.
The aroma of this baking is pure magic.
Utensils You Need
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Baking sheet
- Whisk
- Sharp knife or dental floss (for cutting rolls)
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The Recipe
Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 1 cup warm milk 105°F-115°F
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons 1 packet active dry yeast
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted and cooled
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the filling:
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
For the cream cheese frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
Instructions
Make the dough:
- In a large bowl, whisk together warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add melted butter, eggs, 2 cups of flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Beat until dough starts to form.
- Add the rest of the flour and beat until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Make the filling:
- In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon.
Assemble the rolls:
- Punch down the risen dough and roll into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches).
- Spread the softened butter over the dough, leaving a small border.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the butter.
- Starting from the long side, roll the dough into a tight log.
- Cut the log into 12 even rolls. Place them cut-side down in the greased baking pan.
- Cover with a towel and let rise for 30 minutes, or until puffy.
Bake and frost:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let them cool for about 10 minutes in the pan.
- While the rolls cool, make the frosting: beat together cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Add milk 1 tablespoon at a time to reach desired consistency.
- Spread the frosting over the slightly cooled rolls.
Notes
- To make it easier to cut the rolls without squishing them, use a piece of unflavored dental floss. Slide it under the roll and criss-cross over to cleanly slice.
- For extra cinnamon flavor, sprinkle a little over the frosting.
Alternative Ingredients
Here are some swaps if you’re missing a few things:
| Ingredient | Alternative |
| Active dry yeast | Instant yeast (use the same amount) |
| Granulated Sugar | Brown sugar (use slightly less for the dough) |
| All-purpose flour | Bread flour (for an even chewier texture) |
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What to Serve with Cinnamon Rolls
- Enjoy warm with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee.
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream turns these into a delicious dessert.
- Pair with a side of scrambled eggs for a delicious breakfast treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare them through the second rise. Instead of baking, cover the pan tightly and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them rise at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?
Of course you can. Freeze unfrosted rolls individually for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm and frost before serving.
Let me know if you have any other questions. Enjoy your delicious homemade cinnamon rolls!
