The Best Cinnamon Rolls ✨

Name: The Best Cinnamon Rolls ✨
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 packet instant yeast; 1 cup milk, warmed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons milk (as needed)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the ultimate comfort food with these heavenly cinnamon rolls that are soft, fluffy, and drizzled with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, this easy-to-follow recipe combines warm spices and sweet dough for a delicious treat that everyone will adore. Make mornings special with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen!

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2025-12-10T12:18:10.476Z

A Warm Embrace of Flavor

These cinnamon rolls are a true embodiment of comfort food. Each bite offers a delightful combination of sweet and spicy, as the rich brown sugar and aromatic cinnamon blend together to create a filling that is simply irresistible. The softened butter enhances the dough's texture, which becomes essential for that soft, fluffy mouthfeel we all crave. Whether you enjoy cinnamon rolls with a warm cup of coffee or tea, the experience is bound to elevate your morning ritual and bring comfort to your day.

Cinnamon has been cherished for centuries, not just for its delightful taste but also for its numerous health benefits. Known to have anti-inflammatory properties and the potential to aid digestion, incorporating cinnamon into your diet can contribute to overall wellness. So, while you indulge in these sweetest of treats, you can feel a bit good about it too! Enjoying these cinnamon rolls is not just about satisfying a craving, but also treating yourself to something that offers comfort on multiple levels.

Perfect for Any Occasion

While these cinnamon rolls are perfect for lazy weekend breakfasts, they’re also an excellent choice for special occasions and gatherings. Birthdays, brunch parties, or holiday brunches become extra special when a tray of freshly baked cinnamon rolls is involved. They can be made ahead of time and reheated, making them a convenient option for busy hosts. Slathering the cream cheese frosting on warm rolls right before guests arrive can create an inviting aroma that fills the room, setting a warm and festive atmosphere.

Moreover, these cinnamon rolls can be adapted for various tastes. You can add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips to the filling to create exciting variations. This adaptability invites creativity, allowing you to personalize the recipe to your family’s preferences. Taking ownership of a classic recipe can lead to cherished family traditions as you pass it down, creating lasting memories with each delicious batch you prepare.

Tips for the Perfect Rolls

Ingredients

Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 packet instant yeast
1 cup milk, warmed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon salt

Filling

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

Frosting

4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons milk (as needed)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add melted butter, eggs, and salt.

Gradually mix in flour until a dough forms.

Knead and Rise

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until doubled in size.

Make the Filling

In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon together. Set aside.

Roll the Dough

After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top.

Shape the Rolls

Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise for an additional 30 minutes.

Bake

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

Prepare the Frosting

While the rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Add milk as needed to reach desired consistency.

Frost and Serve

Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before drizzling the cream cheese frosting on top. Serve warm.

Storing Your Cinnamon Rolls

If you have leftover cinnamon rolls (though unlikely!), they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freeze them for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then warm them in the oven to revive their soft texture before serving. It's like having a bakery treat available any day of the week!

For the best experience, consider rewarming your rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This simple step will refresh the rolls, making them taste freshly baked again. Drizzle the cream cheese frosting over them right before serving for that indulgent touch, emphasizing the sweet and creamy contrast against the soft, warm rolls.

Customization Ideas

Don't hesitate to get creative with your cinnamon rolls! You can easily swap out cinnamon for other spices like nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor profile. Adding chopped fruits, such as apples or pears, can also elevate the filling and introduce a delightful juiciness. Consider experimenting with different icing options, too. A simple powdered sugar glaze or even a caramel sauce can provide a lovely twist to the classic cream cheese frosting.

If you want to take your cinnamon rolls over the top, consider turning them into sticky buns. Simply prepare the filling, but pour a layer of brown sugar and butter mixture into the bottom of your baking dish before adding the rolls. As they bake, the rolls will absorb the sticky goodness, creating a sweet caramel-like base that will wow your family and friends. This idea can transform your cinnamon rolls into a decadent dessert that is perfect for sharing!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Just let it come to room temperature and rise before baking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.