The Best Cinnamon Rolls ✨

Name: The Best Cinnamon Rolls ✨
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup whole milk, warmed; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2-3 tablespoons milk

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the soft, fluffy goodness of homemade cinnamon rolls that are perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:55:59.102Z

These cinnamon rolls are a family favorite, cherished for their warm, gooey centers and rich frosting. Made with love, they are perfect for lazy Sunday mornings or special occasions.

        Why You'll Love These Cinnamon Rolls
        Warm and comforting, perfect for chilly mornings
Decadent cream cheese frosting that complements the spices
Easy to make with simple ingredients

      

The Perfect Morning Treat

There's nothing quite like starting your day with a warm, gooey cinnamon roll fresh out of the oven. The aroma fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that beckons everyone to the breakfast table. These rolls are not only delicious but also a wonderful way to bring family and friends together. Imagine sharing these fluffy delights while sipping on a cup of coffee or tea; it's the perfect way to make any morning special.

Making cinnamon rolls from scratch may sound daunting, but this recipe simplifies the process, ensuring that you can achieve bakery-quality rolls at home. The combination of active dry yeast and warm milk helps create a light and airy dough that rises beautifully. With just a few simple ingredients, you'll have a treat that rivals any café offering.

Versatile for Any Occasion

While these cinnamon rolls are ideal for breakfast, they can easily be transformed into a delightful dessert. Serve them warm with a drizzle of cream cheese frosting for an indulgent treat after dinner. They also make a great addition to brunch gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even cozy family weekends. Everyone will appreciate the homemade touch, and you can feel great about creating something special from scratch.

Additionally, these rolls are incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding raisins, nuts, or even chocolate chips to the filling, catering to different tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer classic flavors or want to experiment with new combinations, this recipe provides a solid foundation for delicious variations.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftover cinnamon rolls (which is rare!), storing them properly is key to maintaining their freshness. Allow the rolls to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating is simple! For the best results, place the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help restore their softness and warmth. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 15-20 seconds, but be cautious not to overheat, as this can dry them out. Enjoying a warm cinnamon roll, even days later, is still a delightful experience.

Ingredients

For the Dough

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

For the Filling

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

For the Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-3 tablespoons milk

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

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms.

Knead and Rise

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

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until well blended.

Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the dough.

Shape the Rolls

Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.

Second Rise

Cover the rolls and let them rise again for about 30 minutes until puffy.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Frost and Serve

While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting by beating together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Spread over warm rolls and enjoy!

Serve warm for the best experience.

Nutritional Information

One of the great things about homemade cinnamon rolls is that you can control the ingredients you use. While these rolls are a treat, they can still fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. They are rich in carbohydrates due to the flour and sugar, providing a quick source of energy. The addition of eggs and butter adds protein and healthy fats, enhancing the overall nutritional profile.

If you're looking to make these rolls a bit healthier, consider substituting some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or reducing the sugar content slightly. You can also experiment with using alternative sweeteners in the frosting, like honey or maple syrup, for a different flavor while cutting back on refined sugar.

Tips for Success

To ensure your cinnamon rolls turn out perfectly every time, pay attention to the temperature of your ingredients. The milk should be warm but not hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast. Additionally, be sure to knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic, which helps develop the gluten needed for a fluffy texture.

Another tip is to let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area. If your kitchen is cool, you can create a warm environment by turning on your oven for a minute, then turning it off and placing the dough inside. This will help the dough rise beautifully, resulting in light and airy rolls.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your cinnamon roll experience, consider pairing them with a variety of toppings or sides. A side of fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced bananas, adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet rolls. You could also serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert twist.

For an extra touch, try infusing your frosting with a hint of citrus, such as lemon or orange zest, to brighten the flavors. This small addition can make a significant difference, balancing the sweetness of the rolls and providing a delightful flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls up to the second rise, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.

→ How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?

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

→ Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?

Absolutely! Freeze unbaked rolls in a single layer, then wrap them tightly. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.