Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Nothing beats the taste of homemade cinnamon rolls—soft, fluffy, and packed with a rich cinnamon sugar filling. Topped with creamy cream cheese frosting, these best homemade cinnamon rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat.

This easy homemade cinnamon roll recipe uses yeast to create light, pillowy dough, ensuring a soft texture in every bite. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, follow this guide to make the best cinnamon rolls from scratch!

Why You’ll Love These Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Making homemade cinnamon rolls from scratch is worth the effort. Unlike store-bought versions, these best homemade cinnamon rolls have a rich, gooey texture, a soft dough, and a flavor-packed cinnamon sugar filling that melts in your mouth.

1. Soft and Fluffy Dough

A perfectly risen dough is the key to fluffy cinnamon rolls. Using yeast and allowing proper proofing time ensures the rolls stay light and airy. When you make the cinnamon roll dough from scratch, you get control over the texture, creating soft and fluffy rolls every time.

2. Gooey Cinnamon Filling

The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon mixed with butter creates the classic cinnamon sugar filling that caramelizes while baking. This balance of sweetness and spice is what makes these homemade cinnamon rolls taste so indulgent.

3. Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients

Unlike pre-packaged options, this homemade cinnamon roll recipe uses real ingredients. You won’t find artificial flavors or preservatives—just a rich, buttery dough and a perfectly spiced filling.

4. Customizable Flavors

Homemade cinnamon rolls from scratch allow for endless variations. You can:

• Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
• Use maple syrup or honey for a deeper sweetness.
• Swap the classic cream cheese frosting for a vanilla glaze.
• Make gluten-free cinnamon rolls with simple substitutions.

5. Ideal for Any Occasion

Whether you’re making cinnamon rolls in the morning for a weekend treat or prepping overnight cinnamon rolls for a special breakfast, this recipe is perfect. Freshly baked warm rolls with cream cheese icing make any day feel like a celebration.

By following this cinnamon roll recipe, you’ll get the best cinnamon rolls every time—soft, gooey, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients for the Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

To make soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls, you need a well-balanced mix of ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture, from a tender cinnamon roll dough to a rich, gooey cinnamon sugar filling and a smooth cream cheese frosting.

Dough Ingredients

The dough is the foundation of these best homemade cinnamon rolls, ensuring they turn out pillowy and tender.

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour – Provides structure while keeping the rolls soft.
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast – Helps the dough rise, creating a light and airy texture.
• ¾ cup (180ml) warm milk (110°F/45°C) – Activates the yeast and adds moisture.
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar – Feeds the yeast and gives the dough slight sweetness.
• 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk – Adds richness and helps create a soft and fluffy dough.
• ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted – Enhances flavor and tenderness.
• ½ tsp salt – Balances the sweetness and improves gluten development.

Cinnamon Sugar Filling

A classic cinnamon sugar filling is what gives these homemade cinnamon rolls their signature gooey center.

• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened – Helps the filling spread evenly.
• ¾ cup (150g) brown sugar – Creates a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
• 1 ½ tbsp cinnamon – The essential spice that gives cinnamon rolls from scratch their signature flavor.

Cream Cheese Frosting

A batch of warm rolls isn’t complete without a generous layer of cream cheese icing.

• 4 oz (113g) softened cream cheese – Contributes a smooth, tangy richness.
• ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened – Ensures a smooth consistency.
• ¾ cup (90g) powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting without making it too thick.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
• 2 tbsp milk – Adjusts the consistency for easy spreading.

With these ingredients, you’re ready to make the cinnamon roll dough, prepare the filling, and bake the best cinnamon rolls from scratch.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cinnamon Rolls

Follow this cinnamon roll recipe carefully to create soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls with a rich, gooey filling and a smooth cream cheese frosting. Each step ensures that your best homemade cinnamon rolls turn out perfect every time.

Step 1: Make the Cinnamon Roll Dough

1. Activate the Yeast – In a spacious mixing bowl, combine warm milk (110°F/45°C) with granulated sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures the yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise.
2. Mix the Dough – Stir in melted butter, egg, egg yolk, and salt into the yeast mixture. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, stirring until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough – Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, gradually add one tablespoon of flour at a time.
4. Let the Dough Rise – Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and allow it to rise for about 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size. This step is crucial for making soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

1. Mix the Filling – In a small bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon to create a smooth paste. This cinnamon sugar filling will melt into the dough, creating a gooey, caramel-like texture.
2. 2. Roll the Dough – After the dough has risen and doubled in size, punch it down and carefully roll it out into a 14×18-inch rectangle on a surface lightly dusted with flour.

Step 3: Fill, Roll, and Cut the Cinnamon Rolls

1. Spread the Filling – Evenly spread the cinnamon sugar filling over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
2. Roll the Dough – Tightly roll the dough from the long side into a log. Pinch the edges to seal.
3. Cut the Rolls – Using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss, cut the log into 12 even rolls.

Step 4: Let the Rolls Rise Again

1. Place the Rolls – Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving space between each roll.
2. Cover and Let Rise – Cover with plastic wrap or a towel and let the rolls rise for another 30–45 minutes, until puffy.

(For overnight cinnamon rolls, cover and place the rolls in the fridge overnight. The next morning, let them sit at room temperature for 45 minutes before baking.)

Step 5: Bake the Cinnamon Rolls

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the rolls are rising.
2. Bake the Rolls – Place the dish in the oven and bake the cinnamon rolls for 22–25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Mix the Frosting – Beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy.
2. Spread the Icing – Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for 5 minutes, then spread the icing over the warm rolls.

Your best homemade cinnamon rolls are now ready to enjoy! The soft, gooey texture combined with the rich cream cheese icing makes these perfect cinnamon rolls every time.

Pro Tips and Variations for the Best Cinnamon Rolls

Making homemade cinnamon rolls from scratch is easy when you follow the right techniques. Here are some expert tips to help you achieve soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls every time, along with delicious variations to customize the recipe.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls

1. Use the Right Type of Yeast

For the best results, use active dry yeast or instant yeast. If using active dry yeast, ensure it fully activates in warm milk before adding other ingredients. If using instant yeast, you can mix it directly into the dry ingredients.

2. Let the Dough Rise Properly

• Ensure your dough rises at room temperature in a warm, draft-free area.
• The first rise should take about 1 to 1 ½ hours, and the second rise (after shaping the rolls) should take 30–45 minutes.
• If your kitchen is cold, place the dough in a slightly warmed oven (turned off) with a bowl of hot water to create a warm environment.

3. Roll the Dough Evenly

When rolling out the dough, aim for a 14×18-inch rectangle. If the dough is too thick, the rolls may take longer to bake and won’t be as soft.

4. Prevent Dry Cinnamon Rolls

• Avoid using too much flour—this can make the rolls dense and dry. The dough should feel slightly sticky yet easy to handle.
• Don’t overbake! Bake the rolls until golden brown, about 22–25 minutes. If overbaked, they can lose their soft and gooey texture.

5. Make the Rolls Extra Gooey

For gooey cinnamon rolls, increase the amount of brown sugar and cinnamon filling slightly. You can also pour warm heavy cream over the rolls before baking for a richer texture.

6. Use Dental Floss to Cut the Rolls

Instead of a knife, use unflavored dental floss to cut the rolls cleanly without squishing the dough. Gently slide the floss under the rolled dough, cross the ends over the top, and pull firmly to cut.

Variations to Try

1. Overnight Cinnamon Rolls

• To make overnight cinnamon rolls, prepare the dough and shape the rolls the night before. Cover and refrigerate them overnight.
• The next morning, let them sit at room temperature for 45 minutes before baking.

2. Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls

• Swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
• Add 1 teaspoon of xanthan gum if your flour blend doesn’t contain it.

3. Nutty Cinnamon Rolls

• Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon sugar filling for added crunch.

4. Maple Cinnamon Rolls

• Replace some of the brown sugar with maple syrup in the filling.
• Add ½ teaspoon of maple extract to the cream cheese frosting for extra flavor.

5. Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls

• Mix mini chocolate chips into the filling for a gooey, chocolatey twist.
• Drizzle melted chocolate over the cream cheese icing for extra indulgence.

By following these pro tips and experimenting with these variations, you can make the best cinnamon rolls tailored to your taste.

How to Serve Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Freshly baked homemade cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed warm, with their gooey cinnamon sugar filling and creamy frosting melting into every bite. Here are some delicious ways to serve them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

1. Classic Warm Cinnamon Rolls

• Serve the warm rolls fresh out of the oven with a generous layer of cream cheese icing.
• For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon sugar or a drizzle of honey on top.
• Pair them with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a cozy morning treat.

2. Special Occasion Cinnamon Roll Platter

• Arrange 12 rolls on a large serving dish for a beautiful presentation at holiday breakfasts or family gatherings.
• Add fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or sliced bananas to balance the richness.
• Serve with scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage for a complete brunch spread.

3. Cinnamon Roll Dessert Delight

• Transform cinnamon rolls from scratch into a decadent dessert by topping them with:
  • A scoop of vanilla ice cream
  • A drizzle of salted caramel sauce
  • A dusting of powdered sugar

4. Mini Cinnamon Rolls for Snacking

• Make smaller rolls by slicing the dough into 18 smaller portions instead of 12 even rolls.
• These bite-sized rolls are great for parties or as an afternoon snack with milk or coffee.

5. Make-Ahead and Reheated Rolls

• If serving later, reheat cinnamon rolls in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes to keep them soft and warm.
• Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can make them chewy instead of fluffy.

These serving ideas make your best homemade cinnamon rolls even more enjoyable, whether you’re having them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

How to Store Leftovers

Proper storage ensures your homemade cinnamon rolls stay soft and delicious for days. Whether you want to keep them fresh for the next morning or freeze them for later, follow these storage methods to maintain their fluffy texture and gooey cinnamon filling.

1. Storing at Room Temperature (Best for 1–2 Days)

• Keep the cinnamon rolls in a baking dish and cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
• If already frosted, place a sheet of parchment paper over the rolls before covering them to prevent sticking.
• For the best homemade cinnamon rolls, warm them for 10–15 seconds in the microwave before serving.

2. Refrigerating Cinnamon Rolls (Best for 3–5 Days)

• If you need to store them longer, place the rolls in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap.
• Store cream cheese frosting separately in the fridge and spread it on the rolls after reheating.
• To reheat, bake at 300°F (150°C) for 7–10 minutes or microwave for 20 seconds.

3. Freezing Cinnamon Rolls (Best for Up to 3 Months)

Freezing Baked Cinnamon Rolls

• Let the baked rolls cool completely before wrapping each one in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
• When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat at 325°F (163°C) for 10 minutes.

Freezing Unbaked Cinnamon Rolls

• After shaping the rolls, place them in a greased baking pan, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• When ready to bake, thaw the unbaked rolls overnight in the fridge. Let them rise at room temperature for 1 hour before baking.

4. Keeping Cinnamon Rolls Soft

• Avoid overbaking to keep the rolls soft even after storage.
• If reheating in the oven, place a small dish of water inside to add moisture.
• Brush the warm rolls with melted butter before serving to refresh their texture.

With these storage tips, you can keep the rolls fresh and enjoy their soft and fluffy texture anytime. Now, let’s wrap up with a final thought!

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing like the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls filling your kitchen. This homemade cinnamon roll recipe delivers the best homemade cinnamon rolls, with soft and fluffy dough and a rich cinnamon sugar filling. It’s a simple, rewarding recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.

With the expert tips, variations, and storage methods provided, you can enjoy these gooey cinnamon rolls any time. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned baker, these perfect cinnamon rolls will be a hit every time.

Get ready to roll up your sleeves and bake these best cinnamon rolls today!

FAQs About Cinnamon Rolls

More Delicious Recipes to Try:

• Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Pumpkin Bread Recipe
• Banana Bread Recipe

Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Adam

These soft and fluffy homemade cinnamon rolls are filled with a rich cinnamon sugar filling and topped with creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, they are irresistibly gooey and delicious!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Rising Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Dough:

• 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour plus extra for dusting
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast 1 packet
• ¾ cup warm milk about 110°F
• ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling:

• ⅔ cup brown sugar packed
• 2 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup unsalted butter softened

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 ounces cream cheese softened
• ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon milk optional, for thinner consistency

Instructions

 

Activate the Yeast:

• In a small bowl, mix warm milk (110°F) with sugar and yeast.
• Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Make the Dough:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, egg, melted butter, and yeast mixture.
• Knead for about 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

First Rise:

• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling:

• In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.

Roll the Dough:

• Once risen, roll the dough into a 15×12-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
• Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar filling on top.

Shape the Rolls:

• Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log.
• Cut into 12 even rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.

Second Rise:

• Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Cover and let them rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Bake the Rolls:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake for 18–22 minutes until golden brown.

Make the Frosting:

• Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth.

Frost & Serve:

• Spread the cream cheese frosting over warm rolls.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Sugar: 26g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 220mg

Note: Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on portion size and ingredient brands.

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