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; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast; 1 cup whole milk, warmed; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the warm, gooey goodness of The Best Cinnamon Rolls, perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat any time of the day.

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2025-12-18T15:49:46.989Z

There's nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and topped with a delightful cream cheese frosting that makes them irresistible.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Soft and fluffy texture that pulls apart beautifully
Sweet cinnamon filling that creates a perfect swirl
Cream cheese frosting that adds a luscious finish
Perfect for sharing with family and friends

      

The Perfect Weekend Treat

There's something magical about waking up to the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the house. These rolls are not just a breakfast item; they're an experience. Imagine gathering around the table with your loved ones, enjoying the warm, gooey goodness of these rolls topped with rich cream cheese frosting. They’re the perfect way to elevate your weekend mornings, making them feel special and indulgent.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, these cinnamon rolls will not disappoint. The combination of soft, fluffy dough and sweet cinnamon filling creates a delightful contrast that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, they’re easy to make, so even novice bakers can feel like pros in the kitchen.

Customize Your Rolls

One of the best aspects of these cinnamon rolls is their versatility. While the classic version is undeniably delicious, you can easily customize the filling to suit your tastes. Consider adding chopped nuts for an extra crunch, or incorporate dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a touch of sweetness. You could even experiment with flavored extracts or citrus zest in the frosting for a unique twist.

Don’t be afraid to get creative! You can also make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time. Prepare the dough and filling, then roll and cut the rolls. Place them in the baking dish and cover them in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, simply let them rise while the oven preheats, and bake them fresh for breakfast.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have any leftover cinnamon rolls (which is unlikely!), storing them properly will ensure they remain delicious. Allow the rolls to cool completely, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for a couple of days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

To enjoy your cinnamon rolls again, simply reheat them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will bring back their soft, warm texture and gooey filling, making them taste freshly baked all over again. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack!

Ingredients

Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1 cup whole milk, warmed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt

Filling

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

Frosting

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

Mix well and let it rise for the perfect cinnamon roll dough.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

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

Gradually mix in flour until a dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Make the Filling

In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.

Roll and Cut

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough. Roll tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces.

Bake

Place the rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Make the Frosting

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

Frost and Serve

Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before spreading the frosting on top. Enjoy warm!

Serve these cinnamon rolls warm for the best experience!

Tips for Success

For the best results, make sure your ingredients are at the right temperature. Warm milk should feel warm to the touch but not hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast. Additionally, allow the dough to rise in a warm environment; a draft-free area works best to encourage the yeast to activate and help the dough double in size.

Kneading the dough is a crucial step in developing the gluten structure. Ensure you knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. This will not only give your rolls the perfect texture but also help them rise properly during baking.

Pairing Suggestions

These cinnamon rolls are delightful on their own, but pairing them with the right beverages can enhance your experience. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a spiced chai tea complements the sweet and spicy flavors of the rolls beautifully. For a festive touch, consider serving them with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a warm apple cider during the fall season.

If you're looking to make this a full breakfast spread, add some fresh fruit or a side of crispy bacon. The combination of sweet rolls and savory elements creates a balanced meal that's perfect for any occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before, let it rise, then refrigerate it. In the morning, let it come to room temperature before baking.

→ What can I use instead of cream cheese for the frosting?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a simple vanilla glaze made with powdered sugar and milk.

→ Can I freeze the cinnamon rolls?

Absolutely! After baking, let them cool, then wrap tightly and freeze. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

→ How long do these cinnamon rolls last?

They are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.