Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls are soft, fluffy, and filled with a rich cinnamon-sugar mixture, then topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat, these rolls are a comforting classic that will make your kitchen smell absolutely heavenly.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flourgranulated sugarsaltwhole milkunsalted butteractive dry yeastlarge eggsbrown sugarground cinnamoncream cheesevanilla extractpowdered sugar

directions

Warm the milk until it’s lukewarm (not hot) and dissolve the yeast in it. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.

In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and mix well.

Gradually add the flour and knead until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Cover and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Punch down the dough and roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface.

Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle an even layer of brown sugar and cinnamon.

Starting from one long end, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Slice into even rolls.

Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise again until puffy, about 30-45 minutes.

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

While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting by beating the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Spread the frosting over the warm rolls before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 12 cinnamon rolls.Preparation time: 25 minutesFirst rise time: 1 hourSecond rise time: 30-45 minutesBaking time: 20-25 minutesTotal time: about 2 hours 30 minutes

Variations

Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for extra crunch.

Mix in a little orange zest into the frosting for a citrus twist.

Swap the cream cheese frosting for a simple vanilla glaze if you prefer.

Use a mix of brown and white sugar for a slightly lighter filling.

storage/reheating

Store 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 about 15-20 seconds or warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Let them come to room temperature before baking.

Why didn’t my dough rise?

Make sure your yeast is fresh and the milk isn’t too hot or too cold.

Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?

Yes, you can freeze them baked or unbaked. For baked rolls, freeze after cooling. For unbaked rolls, freeze after shaping and thaw before baking.

How do I make the rolls extra soft?

Don’t over-flour the dough and be careful not to overbake them.

Can I use instant yeast?

Yes, if using instant yeast, you can skip the proofing step and mix it directly with the flour.

Why are my rolls tough?

Overkneading or adding too much flour can make the rolls dense and tough.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just make sure you have a large enough mixing bowl and baking dish.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

You can knead the dough by hand; it will just take a bit more effort.

Can I add raisins or dried fruit?

Yes, adding raisins or dried cranberries to the filling is a delicious option.

Is it necessary to frost the rolls?

Frosting is traditional, but you can enjoy them plain or with a simple dusting of powdered sugar.

Conclusion

Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls are a timeless classic, offering soft, fluffy layers wrapped around a sweet, spiced filling and topped with luscious frosting. Perfect for holidays, special mornings, or anytime you crave a little extra comfort, this recipe promises bakery-style cinnamon rolls made right at home.