The Best Cinnamon Rolls ✨

Name: The Best Cinnamon Rolls ✨
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk, warmed; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons milk

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the soft, fluffy goodness of homemade cinnamon rolls that are perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Created by

Chloe Sullivan

Last updated on 2025-12-09T22:11:33.806Z

These cinnamon rolls are a family favorite, bringing warmth and comfort to any gathering. The rich filling and creamy frosting make them irresistible!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm, gooey centers that are bursting with cinnamon flavor
Soft, fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Easy to follow instructions for perfect results every time

      

A Classic Treat for Any Occasion

Cinnamon rolls are a beloved treat that can elevate any breakfast or dessert table. Their delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen is sure to evoke warm memories and create new ones. Whether you're hosting a brunch, celebrating a holiday, or simply indulging on a cozy weekend, these homemade cinnamon rolls are the perfect way to bring joy to your table.

What makes these cinnamon rolls so special is their versatility. You can enjoy them plain, topped with the classic cream cheese frosting, or even experiment with different fillings such as nuts or chocolate. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, each bite is a comforting reminder of the homemade goodness that brings people together.

Tips for Perfecting Your Rolls

To achieve the perfect cinnamon roll, pay close attention to the dough. Ensure that your milk is warm but not hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast. Allowing the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area will help it double in size and become light and airy. Don't rush this process; a good rise is key to achieving that fluffy texture.

When rolling out the dough, aim for an even thickness. This will ensure that your rolls bake evenly and have a consistent texture throughout. Also, when spreading the filling, be generous but mindful not to overdo it, as too much filling can make the rolls difficult to cut and shape.

Serving and Storing Your Cinnamon Rolls

These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, still warm and gooey. Serve them warm, drizzled with frosting, or with a side of your favorite coffee or tea for a delightful experience. They also make a wonderful gift for friends or family during special occasions or just because!

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider freezing them before frosting. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven to bring back that freshly baked goodness.

Ingredients

For the Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk, warmed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs

For the Filling

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Frosting

4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons milk

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until bubbly. Add melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add flour until a dough forms.

Knead and Rise

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Make the Filling

In a separate bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until combined.

Roll and Cut

Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread the filling, and roll tightly. Cut into 12 equal pieces and place in a greased baking dish.

Second Rise

Cover the rolls and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Frost

While the rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk. Frost the rolls while they are still warm.

Enjoy your delicious cinnamon rolls fresh out of the oven!

Understanding the Ingredients

Every ingredient in this cinnamon roll recipe plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect texture and flavor. All-purpose flour provides the necessary structure, while the active dry yeast is essential for leavening. The combination of sugar and butter not only sweetens the rolls but also contributes to their richness and moisture.

The filling, made from brown sugar and cinnamon, is what gives these rolls their signature flavor. Brown sugar adds a deeper, caramel-like sweetness compared to granulated sugar, enhancing the overall taste experience. The warm spices of cinnamon infuse the rolls with warmth and comfort, making them irresistible.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with your cinnamon rolls! You can add nuts, such as chopped pecans or walnuts, to the filling for added crunch and flavor. For a chocolate twist, consider adding chocolate chips to the filling or drizzling melted chocolate over the frosted rolls.

If you're looking to switch up the flavors, consider experimenting with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom. You can also replace the cream cheese frosting with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a lighter option. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling out.

→ What can I use instead of cream cheese for frosting?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a simple vanilla glaze instead.

→ How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cinnamon rolls?

Yes, you can freeze baked cinnamon rolls. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.