Description
These Homemade Cinnamon Rolls are soft, fluffy, and filled with a buttery cinnamon-sugar swirl, then topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, holidays, or any special occasion, this classic American treat combines a tender yeast dough with a sweet, fragrant filling and a creamy topping for irresistible flavor.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
Filling
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk, if needed
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: Combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar in a large bowl. Let stand for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready.
- Make Dough: Mix in the melted butter, egg, salt, and flour. Knead the mixture for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic, ensuring proper gluten development for a soft texture.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size, allowing the dough to become airy and light.
- Roll Dough: Roll the dough into a 16×12-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface, preparing it for filling application.
- Add Filling: Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture atop, distributing it uniformly for consistent flavor.
- Form Rolls: Roll the dough tightly into a log shape and cut into 12 equal pieces, shaping the classic cinnamon rolls.
- Second Rise: Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise for 30–45 minutes, allowing them to puff up before baking.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
- Bake: Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes until golden brown, achieving a perfectly baked flaky crust and tender center.
- Prepare Frosting: Beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth, creating a rich and creamy topping.
- Frost and Serve: Spread the frosting over the warm cinnamon rolls and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use room-temperature ingredients for the best dough texture and easier mixing.
- Do not overheat the milk, as temperatures above 110°F can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising properly.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Freeze unfrosted rolls for up to 2 months; thaw and then frost before serving.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
