The Best Cinnamon Rolls ✨
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Indulge in the warm, gooey goodness of homemade cinnamon rolls that are sure to impress at any breakfast or brunch gathering.
There's nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and filled with a cinnamon-sugar mixture that creates a delightful swirl. Topped with a creamy icing, they are the ultimate treat for any occasion!
Why You'll Love These Cinnamon Rolls
- Soft and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
- Warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar
- Perfect for sharing with family and friends
The Joy of Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
There's something undeniably special about homemade cinnamon rolls. The aroma wafting through your kitchen as they bake is enough to make anyone's mouth water. Unlike store-bought versions, these cinnamon rolls are made from scratch, ensuring the freshest ingredients and the perfect balance of flavors. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack, these rolls are bound to bring joy to your table.
Making cinnamon rolls at home is not just about the end result; it's also about the experience. Kneading the dough and rolling it out can be a therapeutic process, allowing you to unwind and focus on the simple pleasure of baking. Plus, the excitement of watching the dough rise and transform into fluffy rolls is truly rewarding. Every step is filled with anticipation, leading up to that first warm bite.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These cinnamon rolls are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of the year. They make a fantastic centerpiece for holiday breakfasts, family gatherings, or even as a treat for a special occasion. Their delightful sweetness and comforting flavors make them a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. You can even customize them by adding nuts, raisins, or your favorite spices for a unique twist.
Imagine serving these cinnamon rolls at your next brunch gathering, paired with a fresh fruit salad or a rich cup of coffee. They can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy the company of your guests without being stuck in the kitchen. Simply bake them before your guests arrive, and watch as the compliments roll in with each warm, gooey bite.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
For the Filling
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to create the perfect dough and filling for your cinnamon rolls!
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Then, add melted butter, eggs, and salt.
Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top.
Roll and Cut
Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish. Let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake the Rolls
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before icing.
Make the Icing
In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, cream cheese, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over the warm cinnamon rolls before serving.
Enjoy your homemade cinnamon rolls fresh from the oven!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftover cinnamon rolls, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat in the microwave or oven until warm.
To reheat cinnamon rolls in the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the rolls on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes. This method helps restore their gooey texture and warm flavors. If you're in a hurry, the microwave works well too; just heat them in short bursts to avoid overcooking.
Variations to Try
While the classic cinnamon filling is beloved by many, feel free to experiment with different flavors. Try adding chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture, or incorporate chocolate chips for a decadent twist. You can even swap the cinnamon for cardamom or nutmeg for a unique spice profile that will surprise and delight your taste buds.
For a fun seasonal variation, consider adding pumpkin puree and spices in the fall or using fresh lemon zest for a refreshing summer treat. The possibilities are endless, and each variation can create a unique experience that keeps these cinnamon rolls exciting every time you bake them.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling out.
→ How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze the cinnamon rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls before the second rise. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
→ What can I use instead of cream cheese in the icing?
You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone or omit it for a simpler icing with just powdered sugar and milk.
The Best Cinnamon Rolls ✨
Indulge in the warm, gooey goodness of homemade cinnamon rolls that are sure to impress at any breakfast or brunch gathering.
Created by: Naomi Clarke
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 rolls
What You'll Need
For the Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
For the Filling
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Then, add melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually mix in flour until a dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top.
Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish. Let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before icing.
In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, cream cheese, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over the warm cinnamon rolls before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g