Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls: The Ultimate Recipe Guide

Easy homemade cinnamon rolls, warm from the oven, are a weekend breakfast tradition in my house, and I’m thrilled to share my foolproof recipe with you! Imagine biting into a soft, pillowy roll, the sweet cinnamon swirling with a rich, buttery dough, all topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Is your mouth watering yet?

Cinnamon rolls, in their various forms, have a fascinating history, tracing back to Swedish “kanelbullar” and German “zimtrollen.” These sweet treats have evolved over centuries, becoming a beloved comfort food enjoyed worldwide. In America, they gained immense popularity in the 20th century, often associated with cozy family gatherings and holiday celebrations.

What’s not to love? The combination of warm spices, sweet dough, and creamy frosting is simply irresistible. But beyond the incredible taste, people adore cinnamon rolls for their comforting aroma and the sense of nostalgia they evoke. My recipe for easy homemade cinnamon rolls is designed to be simple and straightforward, so you can enjoy this delightful treat without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a complete beginner, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create these bakery-worthy rolls at home. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this classic, crowd-pleasing dessert!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 cup (240ml) milk, warmed to 110-115°F (43-46°C)
• 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• For the Filling:
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (150g) packed light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups (180g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2-4 tablespoons milk, or more to reach desired consistency

Preparing the Dough:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. This ensures that the salt is evenly distributed, which is crucial for proper yeast activation.
2. Activate the Yeast: In a separate bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy. This step is essential to ensure that your yeast is alive and active. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be old and you’ll need to get a fresh packet.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the melted butter and beaten egg to the yeast mixture. Whisk to combine. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. Knead on medium speed for about 5 minutes. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches the right consistency.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. A warm environment helps the yeast work its magic! I usually put mine in a slightly warmed oven (turned off, of course!).

Preparing the Filling and Assembling the Rolls:

1. Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well until it forms a smooth paste. Make sure your butter is truly softened, or you’ll end up with clumps of butter in your filling.
2. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches. Try to keep the rectangle as even as possible for uniform rolls.
3. Spread the Filling: Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border along one of the long edges. This border will help seal the rolls.
4. Roll Up the Dough: Starting from the long edge opposite the border, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. A tight roll is key to preventing the rolls from unraveling during baking.
5. Cut the Rolls: Using a sharp serrated knife or unflavored dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal slices. Dental floss creates a cleaner cut than a knife, preventing the rolls from getting squished. To use floss, slide it under the log, cross the ends over the top, and pull to cut.
6. Second Rise: Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffy. This second rise is important for creating light and airy rolls.

Baking the Cinnamon Rolls:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking for even cooking.
2. Bake the Rolls: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven. If the tops are browning too quickly, you can loosely tent them with foil.
3. Cool Slightly: Let the rolls cool in the baking dish for about 10-15 minutes before frosting. This allows them to set slightly, making them easier to frost.

Preparing the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. It’s crucial that both the cream cheese and butter are softened to avoid lumps in your frosting.
2. Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Adjust Consistency: Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. You might need more or less milk depending on the humidity and the consistency of your cream cheese.

Frosting and Serving:

1. Frost the Rolls: Generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm cinnamon rolls. The warmth will help the frosting melt slightly and seep into all the nooks and crannies.
2. Serve Immediately: Serve the cinnamon rolls warm and enjoy! They are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If refrigerating, warm them slightly before serving for the best taste.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These easy homemade cinnamon rolls are more than just a recipe; they’re an experience. From the intoxicating aroma that fills your kitchen to the first warm, gooey bite, this is a treat that’s guaranteed to bring smiles. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves baking, or simply enjoys a delicious, comforting dessert.

Why is it a must-try? Because it’s surprisingly simple! Forget the complicated, multi-day processes you might have encountered before. This recipe streamlines the steps without sacrificing any of the flavor or that melt-in-your-mouth texture we all crave. Plus, the satisfaction of knowing you created something so incredible from scratch is simply unmatched. It’s a confidence booster in the kitchen, and a crowd-pleaser at the table.

But the best part? You can totally customize these rolls to your liking! Feeling adventurous? Try adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a delightful nutty crunch. A sprinkle of dried cranberries or raisins would also be a fantastic addition. For a citrusy twist, add a tablespoon of orange zest to the dough.

And let’s talk about serving suggestions! While these cinnamon rolls are absolutely divine on their own, fresh out of the oven, there are plenty of ways to elevate the experience. A scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over a warm roll is pure heaven. Or, for a more sophisticated touch, try pairing them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk. They’re also perfect for brunch, potlucks, or even a special breakfast treat.

For a truly decadent experience, consider making a cream cheese frosting with a hint of maple syrup. The tanginess of the cream cheese perfectly complements the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls, and the maple syrup adds a warm, comforting flavor. Alternatively, a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk is always a classic choice.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and fillings to create your own signature cinnamon roll masterpiece. The possibilities are endless!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe. I know you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m confident it will become one in yours too.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake some magic! I promise, the effort is well worth the reward. These easy homemade cinnamon rolls are a guaranteed hit.

And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you try any variations? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear all about your cinnamon roll adventures. Happy baking!