The Best Cinnamon Rolls

Name: The Best Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 rolls
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk, warmed; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 tablespoons cinnamon; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-10-20T07:59:47.607Z

There's nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. These rolls are not just a treat; they're an experience!

The Perfect Weekend Brunch

Nothing says weekend indulgence quite like a batch of freshly baked cinnamon rolls. These delightful treats are not just for special occasions; they can transform a regular Saturday or Sunday morning into a memorable experience. Imagine the aroma of warm spices filling your home while you enjoy a relaxing cup of coffee or tea. This recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also allows for plenty of customization, making it a perfect activity for family or friends to undertake together.

You can serve these cinnamon rolls as a standalone dish or pair them with your favorite breakfast items. Include some crispy bacon or scrambled eggs to balance the sweetness, or serve a side of fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast. Either way, these rolls are sure to be the star of your brunch table, prompting rave reviews and requests for the recipe.

Make Ahead and Freeze

One of the best features of cinnamon rolls is their versatility in preparation. If you want to enjoy fresh rolls without the wait, consider making the dough ahead of time. After rolling and cutting the dough, place the cinnamon roll slices in a greased baking pan, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. The next morning, simply let them rise for about 30 minutes before baking. This is a fantastic way to save time, especially during busy holiday mornings.

Alternatively, you can bake a batch of these cinnamon rolls and freeze them for later enjoyment. After cooling, wrap each roll tightly and store in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you're ready to indulge, simply reheat them in the microwave or oven until warm. Enjoy the comfort of homemade cinnamon rolls even on the busiest days!

Customization Options

While the classic flavor of cinnamon rolls is beloved, there are countless ways to customize these treats to suit your preferences. For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can also elevate the flavor profile, providing a pleasant chewiness that complements the cinnamon perfectly. Don't hesitate to experiment with different spices as well—try cardamom or nutmeg for an added depth of flavor.

For chocolate lovers, incorporating mini chocolate chips into the filling can create a delightful surprise in every bite. You could also swirl in some Nutella for a rich, indulgent variation. Whatever your tastes, these cinnamon rolls can be easily adapted to become your new favorite treat, making them perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Dough

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

For the Filling

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

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

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

Make sure to gather everything before you start!

Instructions

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-10 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Prepare the Filling

In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon. Spread softened butter over the rolled out dough and sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly on top.

Roll and Cut

Roll up the dough tightly, slice into 12 equal pieces, and place in a greased baking pan. Let rise again for about 30 minutes.

Bake

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

Prepare the Glaze

In a bowl, mix together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over the warm cinnamon rolls before serving.

Enjoy warm from the oven!

Tips for Success

To ensure your cinnamon rolls turn out perfectly fluffy, be mindful of the yeast's activity. Fresh, active yeast is crucial for the dough to rise well, so always check the expiration date before use. If you're unsure, you can proof the yeast by dissolving it in warm milk with a pinch of sugar and allowing it to bubble before adding the remaining ingredients.

When kneading the dough, it's essential to find the right consistency. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. If it feels too sticky, gradually add a little more flour while kneading until it reaches the perfect texture. Proper kneading will develop the gluten, creating a light and airy roll.

Storing and Serving

Once baked, these cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you'd like to keep them longer, freezing is an excellent option. Just remember to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn, and they’ll last for up to three months.

Reheating the rolls is simple and helps to revive their soft, gooey texture. A quick 10-15 seconds in the microwave will do the trick, or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. Serve warm with the cream cheese glaze drizzled on top for a delightful treat that tastes almost as good as the day they were baked.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the rolls and refrigerate them overnight before baking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.