
There’s nothing better than waking up to the aroma of warm, gooey homemade cinnamon rolls fresh from the oven. These soft and fluffy rolls are filled with a buttery cinnamon-sugar swirl and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that melts into every bite. Whether you’re making them for a special breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your home!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F / 45°C)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cups bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
- ¾ teaspoon salt
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Stir in the melted butter and egg, then gradually add the flour and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. (Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 3-5 minutes.)
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Filling
- In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
Step 3: Roll & Fill the Dough
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a 14×9-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, making sure to reach the edges.
- Tightly roll the dough into a log from the longer side and cut it into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.
Step 4: Second Rise & Bake
- Arrange the cinnamon rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving space between each roll. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and fluffy.
Step 5: Make the Frosting & Serve
- While the rolls bake, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
- Spread the frosting over warm cinnamon rolls and serve immediately!
Nutrition Facts (Per Roll, Approximate)
- Calories: 450
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 18g
- Sugar: 30g
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls
✅ Use room temperature ingredients – This ensures smooth dough mixing and even baking.
✅ Let the dough rise properly – A warm environment (like an oven with the light on) helps the yeast activate.
✅ Slice with dental floss – This prevents squishing the dough and makes clean cuts.
✅ Don’t overbake! – Remove them when lightly golden; they’ll continue cooking from residual heat.
✅ Make ahead – Prepare the rolls the night before, refrigerate, then bake fresh in the morning!
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