Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cinnamon Sweet Potato Rolls are the perfect combination of comforting flavors and textures. The sweet potato in the dough not only makes these rolls incredibly soft and moist but also adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the warm, aromatic cinnamon filling. With a light and fluffy interior and a golden, slightly crispy exterior, these rolls are perfect for any occasion. They’re a fun twist on a classic favorite and are sure to impress family and friends with their unique flavor and irresistible aroma.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

1 cup mashed sweet potato (about 1 medium sweet potato)
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup milk, warmed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg

For the Cinnamon Filling:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt

For the Icing (optional):

1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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

Directions

Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir to dissolve the sugar and let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes, or until the yeast becomes frothy.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Add Wet Ingredients: To the yeast mixture, add the mashed sweet potato, melted butter, and egg. Stir to combine. Gradually add the dry ingredients, one cup at a time, mixing until the dough begins to form. You may need to add more flour if the dough is too sticky.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Prepare the Cinnamon Filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the cinnamon filling by mixing together the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl.
Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches).
Spread the Filling: Spread the cinnamon butter filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Form the Rolls: Starting from one of the long edges, carefully roll the dough up into a tight log. Slice the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a clean towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes, or until they have puffed up.
Bake the Rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake.
Prepare the Icing (optional): While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
Serve: Once the rolls are baked, let them cool slightly before drizzling the icing over the top. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 rolls
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 20-25 minutes
Rising time: 1.5-2 hours
Total time: 2.5-3 hours

Variations

Vegan Version: To make these rolls vegan, use a plant-based butter and replace the milk with almond milk or another non-dairy milk. You can also use a flax egg as a substitute for the egg.
Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the cinnamon filling for a crunchy contrast.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Instead of a simple icing, try using a cream cheese frosting for a richer, tangy flavor.
Add Dried Fruit: For a burst of natural sweetness, add dried cranberries, raisins, or currants to the filling.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you have frosting, store it separately and add it just before serving.
Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked rolls after assembling them. Place the rolls in a baking dish, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and freeze. When ready to bake, let them thaw overnight in the fridge, then allow them to rise and bake as directed.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the rolls in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Allow the dough to come to room temperature and rise before rolling it out and assembling the rolls.

Can I make these rolls without yeast?

Yeast is essential to the texture of these rolls. If you want to make a quicker version, you could use a baking powder biscuit dough, but the result will be different in texture and flavor.

Can I use a bread machine to make the dough?

Yes, you can use a bread machine to make the dough. Just follow the instructions for the dough setting, and then proceed with the rolling, filling, and baking as directed.

Can I make these rolls gluten-free?

You can make these rolls gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to check the flour package for specific instructions on substituting for wheat flour.

How can I make these rolls extra soft?

For an even softer roll, you can increase the fat content slightly by adding more butter or oil to the dough. You can also use a milk with higher fat content (like whole milk) for a richer dough.

Can I add more spices to the filling?

Absolutely! You can experiment with adding more spices like ginger, cloves, or allspice to the cinnamon filling for a more complex flavor.

Can I freeze the rolls after baking?

Yes, you can freeze baked rolls. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly and store in a freezer-safe container or bag. Reheat in the microwave or oven when ready to serve.

Can I make these rolls in a different pan size?

If you use a different pan size, the rolls may bake faster or slower depending on the size of the pan. Adjust the baking time accordingly, and check the rolls as they bake.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and the center is set. You can insert a toothpick into the center of a roll to check for doneness—if it comes out clean, the rolls are ready.

Can I skip the icing?

Yes, you can skip the icing for a less sweet option. The rolls are delicious on their own, and the natural sweetness from the sweet potato and cinnamon filling provides plenty of flavor.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Sweet Potato Rolls are a delightful and flavorful variation of the classic cinnamon roll. With their soft, fluffy texture and unique sweet potato dough, these rolls offer a comforting, slightly sweet treat that’s perfect for any time of the day. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack, these rolls are sure to impress. With a simple cinnamon filling and optional icing, Cinnamon Sweet Potato Rolls are an irresistible choice for anyone craving a delicious and cozy baked good.