Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft and pillowy dough with a gooey cinnamon filling
Perfect balance of sweetness and spice
Easy to make ahead and store
Customizable with different toppings and fillings
A delightful treat for special occasions or weekend mornings

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough:

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Active dry yeast
Warm milk
Unsalted butter
Eggs
Salt

For the Filling:

Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Unsalted butter (softened)

For the Glaze:

Cream cheese
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Milk

Directions

Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit until foamy. Add sugar, eggs, melted butter, salt, and flour. Knead until a soft dough forms. Cover and let it rise until doubled in size.
Make the Filling: Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Set aside.
Roll and Fill: Roll out the dough into a rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly.
Roll and Cut: Tightly roll the dough from one end to the other. Cut into equal-sized rolls and place them in a greased baking dish. Cover and let them rise again.
Bake: Preheat the oven and bake the rolls until golden brown and fluffy.
Prepare the Glaze: Mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
Glaze and Serve: Spread the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls and serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 cinnamon rolls
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Bake Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts in the filling for extra crunch.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the rolls instead of cream cheese glaze.
Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips to the filling for a sweet surprise.
Maple Glaze: Replace vanilla extract with maple syrup in the glaze for a deeper flavor.
Fruit Filling: Spread a layer of apple or raisin compote before rolling the dough.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating: Warm them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 300°F until heated through.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked rolls after shaping or fully baked rolls. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and proceed with baking.

FAQs

How do I know when my dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size and feel puffy when touched. A good test is to press it gently with a finger—if the indentation remains, it’s ready.

Can I make cinnamon rolls overnight?

Yes! Prepare the rolls up to the second rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature before baking.

What’s the best way to get soft cinnamon rolls?

Don’t overbake them, and use a slightly higher-fat dough with butter and eggs for a softer texture.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, but you can skip the proofing step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

What if my cinnamon rolls are too dry?

Dry cinnamon rolls often come from overbaking or using too much flour. Be sure to measure carefully and bake just until golden brown.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but whole wheat flour makes denser rolls. You can do half whole wheat and half all-purpose for better texture.

What other toppings can I use?

You can try vanilla icing, honey glaze, or even a dusting of powdered sugar.

How can I make these cinnamon rolls dairy-free?

Use almond milk instead of regular milk and replace butter with a dairy-free alternative.

Can I add a different spice to the filling?

Absolutely! Nutmeg, cardamom, or allspice can add unique flavors.

Why did my rolls spread too much?

If the dough was too warm or the butter in the filling melted too much, it can cause spreading. Try chilling the dough slightly before rolling.

Conclusion

Homemade cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. With their fluffy texture, rich cinnamon-sugar filling, and creamy glaze, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or make them ahead for a special morning, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy your homemade cinnamon rolls!