Why You’ll Love Cinnamon Rolls Recipe Recipe
These cinnamon rolls are incredibly soft thanks to a well-hydrated dough and proper rising time. The buttery cinnamon filling melts into every layer, creating a gooey, flavorful center. The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly balances the richness. Whether you’re baking for family, guests, or yourself, this recipe delivers bakery-quality results at home.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
180 ml (3/4 cup) full-fat milk (whole milk)
60 g (4 tbsp) unsalted butter (chopped into small cubes)
55 g (1/4 cup) granulated or caster sugar
2 1/2 tsp easy bake dried yeast (or dried quick rise yeast)
1 large egg (room temperature)
1 egg yolk from a large egg (room temperature)
360 g (3 cups) strong white bread flour
3/4 tsp salt
60 g (4 tbsp) unsalted butter (softened)
90 g (2/3 cup) light brown sugar (muscovado sugar)
2 tbsp ground cinnamon
4 tbsp flour (bread flour or plain (all-purpose) flour for shaping the dough)
180 g (6.3 oz) full fat cream cheese
70 g (4 1/2 tbsp) unsalted butter (softened)
180 g (1 1/2 cups) confectioners’ sugar (icing sugar/powdered sugar, sifted)
1 tsp vanilla bean paste (or 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract)
Directions
Start by heating the milk and butter together until the butter just melts and the mixture is warm but not hot. Pour this into a stand mixer bowl, then add sugar, yeast, egg, and egg yolk. Mix briefly until combined.
Add flour and salt, mixing on low speed until incorporated. Increase speed to medium and knead for about 10 minutes until the dough becomes soft and slightly sticky.
Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 60–90 minutes until doubled in size.
Prepare a lined baking dish. Turn the dough onto a floured surface, shape it into a rectangle about 16×10 inches, and spread softened butter evenly over it. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle over the butter.
Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log. Trim the ends and slice into 12 even rolls. Arrange them in the prepared dish, cover, and let rise again for 30–60 minutes until puffy and touching.
Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F) fan. Bake the rolls for 20–22 minutes until lightly golden.
While baking, prepare the frosting by whisking cream cheese until smooth, then adding butter, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla. Mix until creamy.
Once baked, let the rolls cool for 5 minutes, then spread the frosting over them while still warm. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Servings and timing
Servings: 12 cinnamon rolls
Prep time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes
Cook time: 20–22 minutes
Total time: approximately 3 hours
Variations
You can add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture. Raisins or chocolate chips can be sprinkled over the filling for extra sweetness. For a different flavor twist, try adding a bit of orange zest to the filling or swapping the cream cheese frosting for a simple vanilla glaze.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave for 15–25 seconds or in a low oven until heated through. If refrigerated, allow them to come to room temperature before reheating for best texture.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Bring it back to room temperature before shaping.
Why is my dough too sticky?
A slightly sticky dough is normal and helps create soft rolls. Avoid adding too much extra flour.
Can I use instant yeast instead?
Yes, instant yeast works perfectly and can be mixed directly with the ingredients.
How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?
They should be lightly golden on top and cooked through the center.
Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?
Yes, you can freeze them baked or unbaked. Thaw and reheat before serving.
What’s the best way to cut the rolls neatly?
Using unflavored dental floss or cotton thread helps create clean slices without squishing the dough.
Can I skip the cream cheese frosting?
Yes, you can use a simple glaze or enjoy them plain if preferred.
Why didn’t my dough rise properly?
This could be due to inactive yeast or a room that’s too cold. Ensure your yeast is fresh and the environment is warm.
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, but bread flour gives a slightly chewier and fluffier texture.
How do I keep cinnamon rolls soft?
Do not overbake them and store them properly in an airtight container.
Conclusion
These cinnamon rolls are soft, rich, and packed with comforting flavors. With their gooey centers and creamy topping, they’re a treat worth every minute of preparation. Once you try making them from scratch, they’re sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
