The Best Cinnamon Rolls

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the ultimate comfort food with these fluffy, gooey cinnamon rolls that are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat anytime. With a rich cinnamon filling and a cream cheese glaze, every bite is pure indulgence. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this easy-to-follow recipe will have your kitchen smelling amazing and your taste buds dancing.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-10-20T07:57:13.944Z

Every home needs a go-to cinnamon roll recipe, and this one is it! Each roll is soft, fluffy, and loaded with cinnamon flavor. The cream cheese glaze takes it over the top!

The Perfect Breakfast Treat

Cinnamon rolls are the quintessential breakfast treat, combining the warmth of freshly baked dough with the comforting spice of cinnamon. These rolls are not just for special occasions; they can elevate your everyday breakfast routine into something extraordinary. Whether served alongside a fresh cup of coffee or enjoyed on their own, they provide a satisfying start to the day. The alluring aroma that wafts through your kitchen as they bake is sure to bring everyone running to the table.

When made at home, each cinnamon roll is lovingly crafted, allowing you to control the ingredients and customize the sweetness to your liking. This recipe provides a balance of flavors that enhances the experience, making these rolls perfect for both a cozy morning or an extravagant brunch gathering. The fluffy texture, combined with the rich filling and tangy glaze, will entice your loved ones and leave them wanting more.

A Simple Yet Satisfying Dessert

Although often associated with breakfast, cinnamon rolls transition seamlessly into dessert territory. Their sweet profile and soft texture make them a delightful ending to any meal. Serve them warm from the oven with a drizzle of cream cheese glaze, and you’ll have a dessert that pleases adults and children alike. Pair with a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent treat that takes dessert to the next level.

Not only are these cinnamon rolls perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, but they also serve as a wonderful canvas for creativity. Feel free to experiment with various fillings, such as nuts, chocolate, or dried fruits. This versatility allows you to tailor each batch to match your taste preferences or seasonal inspirations.

Making Memories in the Kitchen

Baking these cinnamon rolls is more than just following a recipe; it's an opportunity to create lasting memories. Involve family and friends in the process, whether it's mixing the dough or rolling it out. Sharing the joy of baking transforms into a bonding experience. The smiles shared over warm, gooey rolls can foster connections, making your kitchen a gathering place for love and laughter.

Part of the magic of cinnamon rolls lies in their tradition. Many people have cherished family recipes handed down through generations, each suggesting slightly different methods and variations. By creating your own version, you may find inspiration to pass along your own traditions, allowing these delightful treats to live on in new forms. Baking together can spark conversations about heritage and familial love, adding deeper meaning to this beloved recipe.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start baking!

Dough

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

Filling

  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup butter, softened

Glaze

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

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect cinnamon rolls!

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. Stir in melted butter, eggs, and salt.

Gradually add flour until a dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.

Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll out dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter, and sprinkle the cinnamon filling evenly over the surface.

Roll and Slice

Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut into 12 equal slices and place in a greased baking dish. Let the rolls rise for 30 minutes.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Make the Glaze

While the rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.

Enjoy the delightful aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls!

Tips for Success

For the best results, ensure your yeast is fresh and active. If you're unsure, proof it by mixing it with warm milk and a pinch of sugar before incorporating it into the dough. The dough's consistency is also vital; it should be soft but not sticky. Adjust flour as needed until the desired elasticity is achieved for perfect rolls.

When rolling your dough, be gentle but firm. Tightly roll the dough ensures that each slice will have multiple layers of filling. The slicing technique is equally important—using a sharp knife will help maintain the integrity of the rolls and produce clean edges. For softer rolls, let them rise again after slicing to encourage fluffiness.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover cinnamon rolls, storage is straightforward! Allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer-term storage, consider refrigerating them for a week or freezing them for up to three months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

To reheat, simply pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. You can also warm them in the microwave for a quicker option, but be cautious not to overheat them, as this can lead to a chewy texture. A light drizzle of glaze after reheating can refresh their sweetness, making them almost as good as fresh.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary.

→ How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

The Best Cinnamon Rolls

Experience the ultimate comfort food with these fluffy, gooey cinnamon rolls that are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat anytime. With a rich cinnamon filling and a cream cheese glaze, every bite is pure indulgence. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this easy-to-follow recipe will have your kitchen smelling amazing and your taste buds dancing.

Prep Time30 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time55 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 12 rolls

What You'll Need

Dough

  1. 4 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  3. 1 cup milk, warmed
  4. 1/2 cup sugar
  5. 1/4 cup butter, melted
  6. 2 large eggs
  7. 1 teaspoon salt

Filling

  1. 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  2. 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  3. 1/4 cup butter, softened

Glaze

  1. 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  2. 1 cup powdered sugar
  3. 2 tablespoons milk
  4. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. Stir in melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add flour until a dough forms.

Step 02

Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.

Step 03

In a medium bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll out dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter, and sprinkle the cinnamon filling evenly over the surface.

Step 04

Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut into 12 equal slices and place in a greased baking dish. Let the rolls rise for 30 minutes.

Step 05

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 06

While the rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 44g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 5g