The Best Cinnamon Rolls ✨
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
These fluffy, gooey cinnamon rolls are a breakfast favorite that will have everyone coming back for more! Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, each roll is perfectly spiced with cinnamon and sugar, making every bite a delightful treat. Bake these easy-to-follow cinnamon rolls for a cozy morning or a sweet brunch that’s sure to impress family and friends.
These cinnamon rolls are not just a treat; they're a tradition! Most weekends in our home feature the sweet aroma of freshly baked rolls filling the air.
The Perfect Breakfast Treat
Cinnamon rolls are more than just a breakfast item; they are a treasured tradition in many households. Their delightful aroma fills the kitchen, making everyone eager to indulge in a warm, gooey treat. Whether served for a weekend brunch or a special occasion, these rolls promise to be a highlight of your meal.
With a soft, fluffy texture and a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, these cinnamon rolls enjoy acclaim from both young and old. Each roll is generously swirled with a rich cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with velvety cream cheese frosting, creating a combination that’s simply irresistible.
Baking Tips for Success
To achieve the best results, ensure your yeast is fresh and the milk is warm—not too hot, as it could kill the yeast. Patience is key when allowing the dough to rise; give it enough time to double in size for the fluffiest rolls. If you're unsure, a slight poke with your finger should leave an indent.
Also, feel free to experiment with variations. Adding nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips to the filling can elevate your cinnamon rolls to new heights. Just remember not to overload the filling, as this might make rolling difficult and result in uneven baking.
Serving Suggestions
These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed warm and fresh out of the oven. Serve them with a side of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk for a delightful morning routine. They are perfect for gatherings, providing a comforting, homemade touch that guests will rave about.
For an added touch of elegance during special occasions, consider drizzling some caramel sauce or sprinkling chopped nuts over the frosting. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a bit of flair to your presentation, making these rolls a centerpiece worthy of any table.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 3 ½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour
Filling
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened
Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Make sure to gather all your ingredients before you start baking!
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a bowl, mix the yeast with warm milk and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit until frothy, about 5 minutes.
Make the Filling
Combine brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl, and set aside.
Form the Rolls
Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter on top, and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly.
Bake
Roll the dough tightly and slice into rolls. Place them in a greased baking dish, let them rise for 30 minutes, and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
Frost
Mix cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to create the frosting, and spread it over warm rolls.
Let the cinnamon rolls cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Storing and Reheating
If you have any leftover cinnamon rolls (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This will restore their fluffy texture and warm them gently. A quick pop in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds can also do the trick for immediate satisfaction!
FAQ - Common Questions
One common question about making cinnamon rolls is whether they can be prepared in advance. Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling the night before, roll them up, place them in a baking dish, and cover them tightly. In the morning, allow them to rise for about an hour before baking for the best results.
Another frequently asked question is how to know when the rolls are baked perfectly. Check for a golden-brown top and a delightful aroma filling your kitchen. To ensure they are cooked through, you can insert a toothpick into the center of one roll; if it comes out clean, they are ready to be frosted and served.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them the night before, refrigerate, and bake them in the morning.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
The Best Cinnamon Rolls ✨
These fluffy, gooey cinnamon rolls are a breakfast favorite that will have everyone coming back for more! Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, each roll is perfectly spiced with cinnamon and sugar, making every bite a delightful treat. Bake these easy-to-follow cinnamon rolls for a cozy morning or a sweet brunch that’s sure to impress family and friends.
Created by: Evelyn Parker
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 rolls
What You'll Need
Dough
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 3 ½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour
Filling
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened
Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix the yeast with warm milk and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit until frothy, about 5 minutes.
Combine brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl, and set aside.
Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter on top, and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly.
Roll the dough tightly and slice into rolls. Place them in a greased baking dish, let them rise for 30 minutes, and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
Mix cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to create the frosting, and spread it over warm rolls.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 3g