Cinnamon Rolls

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When the craving for something sweet, soft, and utterly comforting strikes, nothing hits the spot quite like a batch of homemade cinnamon rolls. These aren’t just any cinnamon rolls—they’re pillow-soft, packed with a brown sugar-cinnamon swirl, and crowned with a silky glaze that melts into every warm crevice. I’ve made these on slow Sunday mornings, holiday brunches, and even as an after-dinner treat. Every time, the reaction is the same: pure bliss.

Making cinnamon rolls from scratch is a labor of love, but it’s worth every second. From kneading the dough to the scent of cinnamon baking into golden spirals, there’s something magical about the process. I love how the dough becomes airy yet rich, how the filling caramelizes slightly as it bakes, and how the icing soaks into the warm rolls just perfectly.

If you’re someone who swoons over warm, gooey centers and soft, tear-apart layers, this is your new go-to recipe. It’s been perfected through trial, error, and a lot of happy taste tests. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a cozy chai latte. If you’re also into breakfast desserts, you’ll want to try the Nutella French Toast Casserole or these fun Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars.

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

These cinnamon rolls are incredibly fluffy and stay soft even after cooling. The brown sugar and cinnamon filling hits the perfect sweet-spicy balance without overpowering the dough. The glaze is smooth, not too sweet, and melts into the rolls without being runny. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or treating yourself, this recipe brings that warm bakery-style goodness right into your kitchen.

Ingredients

All-purpose flour gives the structure and body needed for a pillowy dough that rises beautifully.

Whole milk adds richness and softness, helping to activate the yeast and tenderize the dough.

Active dry yeast is essential for that fluffy rise, creating air pockets and lightness in the rolls.

Granulated sugar feeds the yeast and slightly sweetens the dough for balance.

Salt enhances the flavor and strengthens the dough’s gluten structure.

Unsalted butter is used generously in the dough, filling, and glaze to add richness and decadence.

Eggs bring structure, color, and a bit of moisture that keeps the dough soft.

Brown sugar for the filling gives a molasses depth and gooey texture.

Ground cinnamon is the star spice, delivering warmth and sweetness.

Powdered sugar is the base for the glaze, dissolving easily into a silky topping.

Vanilla extract infuses the glaze with a warm, aromatic flavor that completes each bite.

Cream cheese optional in the glaze if you like a tangy finish with a creamy texture.

How to Make Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Make the Dough

Warm the milk until it’s just lukewarm, then mix it with the yeast and a spoonful of sugar. Let it bloom until foamy. In a large bowl, combine the flour, the rest of the sugar, and salt. Add eggs and melted butter, then pour in the yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms, then knead until smooth. Let it rise covered until doubled.

Step 2: Roll and Fill

Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle it evenly across the buttered dough.

Step 3: Roll Up and Slice

Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut into even slices using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss for cleaner cuts. Place the rolls in a buttered baking dish.

Step 4: Second Rise

Cover and let the rolls rise again until puffed and touching. This ensures they stay light and airy.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F until golden brown, about 20–25 minutes. The tops should be lightly golden and the centers fully set.

Step 6: Glaze and Serve

Whisk together powdered sugar, a bit of milk, vanilla extract, and optional cream cheese until smooth. Drizzle or spread the glaze over warm rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy every gooey bite.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

For a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon filling before rolling the dough. You can also add a layer of finely chopped apples or raisins for a fruity variation. If you’re dairy-free, swap the milk with almond or oat milk and use plant-based butter. Not a fan of cream cheese in the glaze? Stick with a classic vanilla icing or use maple syrup for a warm flavor boost.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve cinnamon rolls warm for the best experience. They’re perfect with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or a creamy latte. For a brunch spread, pair them with fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, or even a savory quiche. They’re also great as a dessert following a light meal, especially when topped with an extra spoonful of glaze.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, microwave individual rolls for 15–20 seconds, or warm a tray in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes. For extra softness, cover them with foil during reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely. After slicing and arranging in the pan, cover and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise slightly before baking in the morning.

What kind of yeast should I use for Cinnamon Rolls?

Active dry yeast is perfect for this recipe. If you use instant yeast, you can skip the blooming step and mix it directly into the flour.

How do I keep Cinnamon Rolls from being dry?

Use whole milk and don’t overbake. Covering the rolls while they rise and storing them properly also helps lock in moisture.

Can I freeze Cinnamon Rolls?

Yes! You can freeze them baked or unbaked. For baked rolls, let them cool, then wrap individually and freeze. Thaw and reheat as needed. For unbaked, freeze after slicing, then thaw and bake as directed.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If these cinnamon rolls made your kitchen smell like heaven, you’ll want to check out the Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe for another warm, cinnamon-packed treat. For bite-sized dessert lovers, the Irresistible Funnel Cake Bites are a crispy and sweet option that’s just as satisfying.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t let this cinnamon rolls recipe get lost! Pin it to your favorite breakfast or dessert board on Pinterest so you can find it when the craving strikes again. Share it with friends and family on Facebook or send it through a quick text—because everyone deserves a taste of soft, cinnamon-swirled happiness.

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