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The Best Cinnamon Rolls | Soft, Fluffy & Perfectly Sweet

There’s something magical about freshly baked cinnamon rolls—the way the sweet cinnamon sugar swirls melt into fluffy dough, the buttery aroma that fills the kitchen, and the creamy glaze that drips down each roll. This recipe delivers bakery-quality cinnamon rolls right at home, with soft pillowy centers, golden tops, and a perfectly spiced filling. Whether served for a cozy weekend breakfast, holiday brunch, or as a dessert treat, these cinnamon rolls are guaranteed to bring smiles. The secret lies in letting the dough rise to perfection and rolling in a generous layer of cinnamon-brown sugar filling for that signature spiral.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Rise & Bake Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Fresh Products:
  • 1 egg large
Culinary Aids & Spices:
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast 1 packet
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup brown sugar packed
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 4 tbsp granulated sugar divided: 2 tbsp for dough, 2 tbsp for yeast activation
  • 1 cup powdered sugar for glaze
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract divided: 1 tsp for dough, 1 tsp for glaze
Dairy Products:
  • 12 tbsp unsalted butter softened, divided
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup milk warm, about 110°F / 43°C

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Whisk
  • Rolling Pin
  • Small saucepan (for warming milk)
  • Electric mixer (optional)
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Plastic wrap or clean towel (for covering dough)
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step 1: Activate the Yeast
  1. Warm the milk until just lukewarm (not hot).
  2. Add 2 tbsp granulated sugar and active dry yeast. Stir and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Make the Dough
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and remaining 2 tbsp granulated sugar.
  2. Add the yeast mixture, egg, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 4 tbsp softened butter.
  3. Mix until dough comes together. Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 3: First Rise
  1. Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
  1. In a bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
  2. Melt 4 tbsp butter and set aside for brushing.
Step 5: Roll and Fill
  1. Punch down risen dough and roll into a rectangle about 12×16 inches.
  2. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
  3. Roll tightly from the long edge to form a log.
  4. Step 6: Slice and Second Rise
  5. Cut into 12 equal rolls.
  6. Arrange in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  7. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
Step 7: Bake
  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes, until lightly golden.
Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze
  1. Beat cream cheese and remaining 4 tbsp softened butter until smooth.
  2. Add powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and mix until creamy.
Step 9: Glaze and Serve
  1. Spread the glaze over warm rolls and enjoy immediately.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Room Temperature:
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator:
Keep for up to 5 days.
Freezer:
Freeze baked rolls for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
Warm in microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a 160°C (320°F) oven for 5–7 minutes.
🥄 Variations
Maple Cinnamon Rolls: Add maple syrup to the glaze.
Nutty Cinnamon Rolls: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling.
Extra Gooey Version: Drizzle caramel sauce before glazing.
Fruit-Filled Rolls: Add raisins or dried cranberries to the filling.
Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls: Mix cocoa powder into the filling for a twist.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I prepare cinnamon rolls the night before?
Yes—assemble, cover, refrigerate overnight, then bake in the morning.
2. Can I skip the cream cheese glaze?
Yes—replace with a simple powdered sugar icing.
3. Why is my dough not rising?
Your yeast may be expired, or your milk may have been too hot.
4. Can I make these without eggs?
Yes—replace with ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce.
5. How do I make them softer?
Don’t overbake and cover them after baking to retain moisture.
6. Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose?
Yes—it will give a slightly chewier texture.
7. Can I make them smaller?
Yes—cut into 16 smaller rolls and reduce baking time.
8. How can I make them more cinnamon-y?
Add an extra ½ tbsp cinnamon to the filling.
9. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes—freeze after shaping, thaw overnight, and bake fresh.
10. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry?
Yes—skip the activation step and mix directly into the flour.
🏁 Conclusion
These Best Cinnamon Rolls are fluffy, buttery, and filled with warm cinnamon sweetness—perfect for mornings when you want something special. The cream cheese glaze melts into each swirl, creating that irresistible gooey bite.