The Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Few things are as comforting as the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen. This homemade cinnamon roll recipe is soft, fluffy, and filled with a deliciously gooey cinnamon-sugar filling. Whether for a special weekend breakfast or a holiday brunch, these rolls will be a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and Fluffy Dough: Made with yeast, this dough rises beautifully, creating a pillowy texture.
• Perfectly Balanced Sweetness: The filling and glaze strike the right balance between sweet and rich.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the dough the night before for an easy morning bake.
• Customizable: Add nuts, raisins, or a cream cheese glaze for extra flair.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling:

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

For the Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix warm milk and yeast. Let sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add sugar, melted butter, eggs, and salt. Mix well.
3. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling

1. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
2. Spread softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough.
3. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the butter.

3. Assemble the Rolls

1. Roll the dough into a 16×12-inch rectangle.
2. Tightly roll the dough from the long side into a log.
3. Cut into 12 even slices and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.

4. Bake the Rolls

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

5. Prepare and Apply the Glaze

1. Mix powdered sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
2. Drizzle over warm cinnamon rolls before serving.

Variations

• Cream Cheese Frosting: Substitute the glaze with a mixture of cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk.
• Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling.
• Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the filling before rolling.
• Raisin Cinnamon Rolls: Add a handful of raisins for a chewy texture.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 12 cinnamon rolls.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Bake Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: About 2 hours 15 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep for up to 5 days in a sealed container.
• Freezer: Freeze baked rolls (without glaze) for up to 3 months. Reheat before glazing.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I ensure my cinnamon rolls are soft and fluffy?

Use warm milk to activate the yeast properly and avoid over-kneading the dough, which can make them dense.

Can I make cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the rolls, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

What’s the best way to cut cinnamon rolls?

Use dental floss or a sharp knife to cut even slices without squishing the dough.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, substitute in equal amounts, but reduce the first rise time by about 15 minutes.

How can I make gluten-free cinnamon rolls?

Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend and add 1 teaspoon of xanthan gum if not included in the mix.

What can I do if my rolls didn’t rise properly?

Check that your yeast is fresh and that your milk was warm but not too hot (110°F is ideal).

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but it will make the rolls denser. Try using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.

How do I make my rolls extra gooey?

Increase the butter and sugar filling slightly and pour some heavy cream over the rolls before baking.

Can I add fruit to my cinnamon rolls?

Absolutely! Try adding finely chopped apples, berries, or dried fruit for a fruity twist.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover cinnamon rolls?

Warm them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes for the best texture.

Conclusion

These homemade cinnamon rolls are a timeless treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With a soft, fluffy dough and a rich cinnamon-sugar filling, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save some for later, they deliver pure indulgence in every bite!

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