The Best Cinnamon Rolls ✨

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the ultimate comfort food with these soft and gooey cinnamon rolls. Each roll is packed with a rich, buttery filling and topped with a creamy glaze that melts in your mouth. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat, these cinnamon rolls are easy to make and sure to impress family and friends alike. Bake a batch for a cozy morning or special occasion and watch them disappear.

Vanessa Doyle

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2025-12-11T09:14:07.800Z

These cinnamon rolls are more than just a recipe; they're a way to bring warmth and joy to any gathering. With a soft texture and a heavenly taste, they create a perfect atmosphere.

The Perfect Weekend Treat

Cinnamon rolls are the epitome of comfort food, especially perfect for a relaxing weekend morning. They offer a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen, drawing everyone in for a cozy breakfast together. Picture a lazy Sunday, where the only worry is how many cinnamon rolls to indulge in! Making these delightful pastries can become a cherished family tradition, and each roll delivers a delightful bite of happiness.

These rolls are more than just a tasty treat; they embody the spirit of togetherness. Whether it’s a simple weekend breakfast, a festive gathering, or a special occasion, these cinnamon rolls bring joy and warmth to every table. Serve them with fresh coffee or hot cocoa, and you have a breakfast that feels both special and satisfying.

Customizing Your Cinnamon Rolls

One of the many appealing aspects of this cinnamon roll recipe is its versatility. While the classic version is undeniably delightful, you can easily add your own twist to personalize them. Consider incorporating nuts, such as chopped pecans or walnuts, for added crunch. You could also add raisins or dried cranberries to the filling for a fruity surprise that complements the cinnamon beautifully.

For a unique flavor, try experimenting with different types of icing. Instead of the traditional glaze, consider topping your rolls with cream cheese frosting or a maple syrup glaze for a decadent finish. The options are limitless, allowing you to make each batch uniquely yours. Experimenting with flavors enhances the experience and keeps your cinnamon rolls exciting each time you bake them.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Ingredients

Dough

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

Filling

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

Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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

Steps

Prepare the Dough

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

Knead and Rise

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.

Make the Filling

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

Shape the Rolls

Roll the dough tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces. Place them in a greased baking dish and let rise for an additional 30 minutes.

Bake the Rolls

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

Make the Glaze

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the warm rolls once they are out of the oven.

Enjoy your freshly baked cinnamon rolls with a cup of coffee or tea!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your warm, gooey cinnamon rolls with a variety of breakfast items to create a delightful spread. Fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced bananas, adds a refreshing contrast to the rich sweetness of the rolls. A side of scrambled eggs can provide a nice protein balance, making your breakfast both decadent and fulfilling. Consider serving with a hot beverage, like coffee or chai tea, to complement the cinnamon flavors beautifully.

These rolls are also great for brunch gatherings or potluck parties. They can be served with an assortment of toppings, letting guests customize their own sweet treats. Provide options like whipped cream, additional cinnamon sugar, or even flavored syrups to enhance the experience. When shared among friends and family, these cinnamon rolls become a true crowd-pleaser.

Baking Tips for Perfection

To achieve the best results, pay close attention to the dough's texture during mixing and kneading. It should be soft and slightly tacky but not overly sticky. If it feels too wet, sprinkle a bit more flour while kneading until you reach the desired consistency. Don’t rush the rising process; allowing the dough to double in size is crucial for achieving those fluffy, airy rolls you crave.

Additionally, consider using a kitchen thermometer to ensure your milk temperature is just right when activating the yeast. The ideal temperature is around 110°F (43°C), as too hot or too cold can hinder yeast activity and affect the dough's rise. Follow these tips, and you'll be well on your way to impressing anyone with your baking skills.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls up to the baking step, refrigerate them overnight, and bake them in the morning.

→ What if I don't have active dry yeast?

You can substitute with instant yeast, using the same amount.

The Best Cinnamon Rolls ✨

Experience the ultimate comfort food with these soft and gooey cinnamon rolls. Each roll is packed with a rich, buttery filling and topped with a creamy glaze that melts in your mouth. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat, these cinnamon rolls are easy to make and sure to impress family and friends alike. Bake a batch for a cozy morning or special occasion and watch them disappear.

Prep Time30 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time55 minutes

Created by: Vanessa Doyle

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 12 rolls

What You'll Need

Dough

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

Filling

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

Glaze

  1. 1 cup powdered sugar
  2. 2 tablespoons milk
  3. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How-To Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.

Step 03

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

Step 04

Roll the dough tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces. Place them in a greased baking dish and let rise for an additional 30 minutes.

Step 05

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

Step 06

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the warm rolls once they are out of the oven.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Fat: 9g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Protein: 3g