Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Cinnamon rolls, those golden, soft, and gooey pastries, are a classic comfort food perfect for breakfast or an indulgent snack. The sweet, cinnamon-spiced filling wrapped inside a tender dough, topped with a creamy glaze, makes these homemade cinnamon rolls a must-try. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is designed to be easy to follow, with no complex steps, ensuring you can enjoy a warm, fresh batch of cinnamon rolls in no time.

Making cinnamon rolls from scratch might seem like a challenge, but with the right ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll be rewarded with the most delicious rolls you’ve ever tasted. Plus, the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls filling your kitchen is worth the effort!

Ingredients

• 1 cup whole milk, warmed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Filling:

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

For the Icing:

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

How to Make Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe ?

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Stir in the yeast and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This means the yeast is activated.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs. Mix everything until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 6-8 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little flour, but try to keep the dough soft.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling
While the dough is rising, make the cinnamon filling. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick. Spread the softened butter over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls
Carefully roll the dough up into a tight log, starting from one long edge. Once rolled, cut the log into 12 even slices using a sharp knife or dental floss. Arrange the slices in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, leaving a bit of space between each roll.
Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 5: Bake the Rolls
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. The rolls should be slightly puffed up and smell absolutely heavenly as they bake.

Variations

• Caramel Cinnamon Rolls: For a richer flavor, add a layer of caramel sauce in the bottom of the baking pan before arranging the rolls. This will make your rolls extra gooey and indulgent.
• Apple Cinnamon Rolls: Add finely chopped apples to the cinnamon sugar filling for a fruity twist.
• Pecan Cinnamon Rolls: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon sugar filling for added crunch.
• Vegan Cinnamon Rolls: Substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like almond milk, vegan butter, and flax eggs.

Cooking Note

• Resting the Dough: The rising time for dough is crucial for creating soft, fluffy rolls. Be sure to give the dough enough time to double in size during both rises.
• Filling: If you prefer a more intense cinnamon flavor, feel free to increase the amount of cinnamon in the filling to your taste.
• Freezing: You can prepare the rolls up to the point of baking, then cover and freeze them for later use. When you’re ready, bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra few minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your cinnamon rolls warm from the oven, drizzled with the creamy glaze. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or milk for a perfect breakfast or brunch treat. You can also serve them with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent experience.

Helpful Tips

• Dough Consistency: If the dough feels too stiff, add a little more milk, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a smooth, elastic consistency.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your rolls as they bake. They should be golden and soft, not overly brown or dry.
• Use Dental Floss to Cut the Rolls: For a clean cut without squishing the rolls, use unflavored dental floss to slice through the dough.

Related Recipes :

• Baked Apple Fritters Recipe 
• Delicious Fall Cookie Recipe
• Best Blueberry Muffins Recipe
• No-Bake Biscoff Cheesecake Recipe

FAQs

Can I make the dough the night before?

Yes, you can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Can I use a different type of flour?

You can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option, though the texture of the rolls may be slightly denser.

How can I store leftover cinnamon rolls?

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.

Conclusion

Making homemade cinnamon rolls from scratch is a rewarding and satisfying experience that results in soft, delicious rolls perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients, a bit of patience, and some love, you can create a batch of cinnamon rolls that are far better than anything you’ll find in a store. Plus, with the added bonus of a gooey cinnamon filling and sweet glaze, they’re a treat everyone will enjoy. Try this recipe today and experience the joy of baking homemade cinnamon rolls!

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