The Best Cinnamon Rolls

Name: The Best Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup milk, warmed; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 packet active dry yeast; 1 egg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Transform your breakfast table with these irresistibly soft and gooey cinnamon rolls. Perfectly spiced and drizzled with a creamy icing, they are a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored for later, these cinnamon rolls will become a family favorite, bringing warmth and sweetness to your mornings.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-10-20T06:48:47.516Z

These cinnamon rolls have been a part of family gatherings for generations. The secret to their success lies in the perfect balance of spices and a generous helping of icing.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Cinnamon rolls are not just a breakfast treat; they can elevate any gathering or celebration. Whether it's a holiday brunch, a birthday party, or a cozy Sunday morning, these soft and gooey wonders fit seamlessly into any occasion. Their delicious aroma wafting through the house invites everyone to partake in the joy of sharing food with loved ones.

Moreover, these cinnamon rolls are versatile. You can serve them plain or dress them up with various toppings to suit your event theme. Pair them with fresh fruit, a warm cup of coffee, or even a rich chocolate drink, and watch as they become the star of the table.

Baking Tips for Success

Baking cinnamon rolls requires attention to detail, but it doesn’t have to be intimidating. First, ensure your yeast is active by testing it in warm milk before adding it to your mixture. This crucial step helps ensure that your rolls are fluffy and rise perfectly.

Secondly, allow the dough to rise in a warm environment, as it encourages yeast activity. If your kitchen is cool, consider preheating your oven for a minute and then turning it off before placing the dough inside to rise. This will create a cozy atmosphere for the dough, helping it to double in size effectively.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for later enjoyment. Once cooled, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider freezing them without icing. Just reheat in the oven and add the icing right before serving, and they'll taste almost like they came straight out of the oven.

For a delightful twist, think about adding unique ingredients to your rolls. Nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips can be mixed into the filling for a personalized touch. Experimenting with flavors can take these classic rolls to new heights, making them even more enjoyable!

Ingredients

Dough

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup milk, warmed
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 packet active dry yeast
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon salt

Filling

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

Icing

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix and match ingredients as desired for your perfect cinnamon rolls!

Instructions

Make the Dough

In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and melted butter. Add the yeast mixture and egg. Mix until a dough forms.

Knead and Rise

Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling

Mix together brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Roll the dough out into a rectangle and spread softened butter over the top. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar mixture.

Roll and Cut

Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces. Place in a greased baking dish and cover. Let rise for another 30 minutes.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Make the Icing

While the rolls bake, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the icing.

Ice and Serve

Once baked, drizzle the icing over the warm rolls and serve immediately.

Enjoy your homemade cinnamon rolls with your favorite coffee or tea!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, your cinnamon rolls may not rise as expected. This can be due to expired yeast or cold temperatures during the rising phase. To avoid this issue, regularly check the expiry date on your yeast packets, and ensure that your dough rises in a warm spot where it can thrive.

If your rolls turn out too dense, it may be because they were over-kneaded or not given enough rising time. Be gentle while kneading, and always allow adequate time for the dough to rise. It’s worth being patient; fluffy rolls come from adequate fermentation!

Creative Icing Variations

Traditionally, cinnamon rolls are topped with a creamy vanilla icing, but feel free to get creative! A cream cheese icing adds a tangy twist that complements the sweetness beautifully. To make this simple change, combine softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and a splash of milk to achieve your desired consistency.

Alternatively, consider a maple-flavored icing for an extra depth of flavor that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon. Just mix powdered sugar with pure maple syrup and a few teaspoons of milk. This unique topping will impress your guests and have them asking for the secret to your delicious cinnamon rolls.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before rolling.

→ How should I store leftover rolls?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.