These homemade cinnamon rolls are everything you want in a perfect sweet roll. They are incredibly soft, fluffy and gooey, with a rich cinnamon sugar filling and a smooth, creamy frosting that melts into every layer.
If you are looking for the best homemade cinnamon rolls, this easy recipe will guide you step by step to achieve bakery style results at home. The dough is light and airy, the filling is warm and aromatic, and every bite is soft, tender and full of flavor.
These homemade cinnamon rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch or weekend baking. Made with simple ingredients, they turn out soft and fluffy every single time, making them a favorite for the whole family.
If you love these homemade cinnamon rolls, you might also enjoy trying other soft and fluffy recipes from my kitchen. My blueberry rolls are filled with a sweet fruity filling and have the same soft texture, while my cinnamon apple rolls bring a warm and cozy flavor that is perfect for fall baking.
You can also explore my soft homemade buns and dinner rolls recipes, which use a similar dough technique and turn out incredibly light, fluffy and perfect for everyday baking. These recipes are easy to follow and made with simple ingredients, making them ideal even if you are new to baking.
Making homemade cinnamon rolls from scratch is easier than you think, and once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite go to treats for breakfast or weekend baking.
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Quick Recipe Info
- Prep time 20 minutes
- Rising time 1 hour 30 minutes
- Bake time 20 minutes
- Total time 2 hours 10 minutes
- Servings 12 cinnamon rolls
- Calories about 320 per roll
- Difficulty Easy
WHAT YOU’LL NEED FOR THIS RECIPE
To make these homemade cinnamon rolls, you will need simple ingredients like flour, milk, yeast, sugar, butter and eggs, along with brown sugar and cinnamon for the filling. Everything comes together easily to create soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls with a rich and delicious flavor.
Flour
All purpose flour is the base of these homemade cinnamon rolls and gives the dough its soft and fluffy structure. It creates a light texture while still holding the shape of the rolls.
Tip: Use regular all purpose flour, not bread flour, for softer cinnamon rolls.
Active dry yeast
Active dry yeast helps the dough rise and makes the cinnamon rolls soft and airy. Proper activation is key for achieving that fluffy texture.
Tip: Always use warm milk, not hot, to activate the yeast. If it is too hot, it can kill the yeast.
Milk
Warm milk makes the dough soft and tender while also helping activate the yeast. It adds richness and improves the overall texture.
Tip: Whole milk works best for richer and softer homemade cinnamon rolls.
Butter
Butter adds flavor and softness to both the dough and the filling. It helps create that rich, melt in your mouth texture.
Tip: Use real unsalted butter for the best flavor and control over salt.
Brown sugar
Brown sugar gives the cinnamon filling its deep, caramel like flavor and keeps it moist and gooey.
Tip: Light or dark brown sugar both work, but dark gives a stronger flavor.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is the key flavor in these homemade cinnamon rolls, giving them that warm and comforting aroma that makes them irresistible.
Tip: Use high quality ground cinnamon for the best flavor. If you want to learn more about different types of cinnamon, you can read more here.
Cream cheese
Cream cheese is used for the frosting, making it smooth, creamy and slightly tangy which balances the sweetness.
Tip: Let it soften at room temperature so the frosting becomes smooth and lump free.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
These homemade cinnamon rolls are incredibly soft, fluffy and gooey, with a rich cinnamon sugar filling and a smooth, creamy frosting that melts into every layer.
This is an easy cinnamon rolls recipe made with simple ingredients you probably already have at home, and the results are bakery style rolls that look and taste amazing.
You will love how soft and fluffy these homemade cinnamon rolls turn out every time, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch or a cozy weekend baking treat.
Ingredients
For the dough
1 cup warm milk (240 ml)
1 tablespoon active dry yeast (9 g)
5 tablespoons granulated sugar (60 g)
4 1/3 cups all purpose flour (540 g)
1/3 cup brown sugar (65 g)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (115 g)
1 large egg
1 tablespoon vanilla extract or 1 packet vanilla sugar (10 g)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the cinnamon filling
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (85 g)
1/2 cup brown sugar (100 g)
1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the cream cheese glaze
4 oz cream cheese, softened (115 g)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (30 g)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
a pinch of salt
2 cups powdered sugar (240 g)
How to Make Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
1. Prepare the dough
In a large bowl, pour in the warm milk, then add the sugar and active dry yeast. Stir gently to combine, then add a few tablespoons of flour and mix everything together until smooth.
Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes, or until the yeast becomes foamy and activated. This step is important because it helps create soft and fluffy homemade cinnamon rolls with a light and airy texture.
Tip: Make sure the milk is warm, not hot, as high heat can prevent the yeast from activating properly.
2. Add the Remaining Dough Ingredients
Once the yeast mixture is activated and foamy, add the egg, sugar, vanilla and melted butter, along with a touch of cinnamon for extra flavor. Mix everything well until smooth and fully combined.
Gradually add the flour and start mixing until a soft dough forms. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for a few minutes until it becomes smooth, soft and slightly elastic.
Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover it and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. This step is key for achieving soft and fluffy homemade cinnamon rolls.
Tip: The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, but not too wet. Avoid adding too much flour to keep the rolls light and fluffy.
3. Rolling the Dough
Once the dough has doubled in size, transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Gently press it down to release the air, then start rolling it out into a large rectangle using a rolling pin.
Roll the dough evenly until it becomes thin and smooth, making sure the thickness is even on all sides. This helps the homemade cinnamon rolls bake evenly and gives them that perfect soft and fluffy texture.
Try to keep a rectangular shape, as this will make it easier to spread the filling and roll the dough later.
Tip: Do not add too much flour while rolling, as it can make the dough dry and less soft.
4. Filling the Dough
Once the dough is rolled out into a large rectangle, spread the softened butter evenly over the entire surface. Make sure the butter is soft at room temperature so it spreads easily without tearing the dough.
If the butter is too firm, you can soften it slightly in the microwave for a few seconds. This will make it much easier to spread and help keep the dough smooth and intact.
Next, sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the buttered dough. Spread it all the way to the edges to ensure every bite of these homemade cinnamon rolls is rich, sweet and full of flavor.
Once the filling is evenly distributed, gently start rolling the dough into a tight log from one side. Roll it carefully but firmly to keep the layers even and create that classic swirl inside the rolls.
Tip: Roll the dough tightly, but not too tight, so the homemade cinnamon rolls stay soft and fluffy while baking.
5. Cutting the Cinnamon Rolls
Once the dough is rolled into a tight log, use a knife to lightly mark the thickness of each roll so they are all even in size. This helps the homemade cinnamon rolls bake evenly and look more uniform.
To cut the rolls cleanly, use a piece of thread or unflavored dental floss. Slide it under the dough, cross the ends over the top and pull gently to slice through. This method keeps the shape intact and prevents the rolls from being squished.
Tip: Using thread instead of a knife gives you clean, beautiful layers and helps keep the homemade cinnamon rolls soft and perfectly shaped.
6. Baking the Cinnamon Rolls
Grease a baking dish with butter, then place the cut rolls inside, leaving a little space between each one so they can expand as they rise.
Once all the rolls are arranged, cover the pan and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This short resting time allows the dough to rise again, making the homemade cinnamon rolls even softer and fluffier.
When the rolls have slightly puffed up, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) and bake for about 20 minutes, or until they turn a light golden brown on top.
The rolls should be soft, fluffy and beautifully risen, with a warm and rich cinnamon aroma that fills the kitchen.
Tip: Do not overbake the rolls. Remove them from the oven once they are lightly golden to keep them soft and tender.
7. Preparing the Cream Cheese Glaze
While the cinnamon rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese glaze.
In a bowl, add the softened butter and vanilla sugar or vanilla extract, then mix until smooth and well combined.
Next, add the cream cheese and continue mixing until the mixture becomes creamy and fully blended.
Add a pinch of salt, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the glaze is smooth, thick and spreadable.
This rich and creamy glaze is the perfect finishing touch for homemade cinnamon rolls, adding sweetness and a slight tang that balances the soft and fluffy dough.
Tip: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth, lump free glaze.
8. Spreading the Glaze
Once the cinnamon rolls are baked and lightly golden, remove them from the oven. They should be soft, fluffy and beautifully risen, with a warm cinnamon aroma.
While the rolls are still warm, spread the cream cheese glaze evenly over the top. The warmth will slightly melt the glaze, allowing it to soak into every layer.
Make sure to spread it generously so each roll is coated with a smooth, creamy layer that enhances the soft and fluffy texture.
Tip: For the best result, spread the glaze while the rolls are still warm, but not too hot, so it stays creamy and smooth.
Enjoy every bite of these soft, gooey and buttery cinnamon rolls, perfectly sweet, rich in cinnamon flavor and topped with a creamy glaze.
Storing and Freezing Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
Storing
Store homemade cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them soft and fresh for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Make sure they are fully cooled before storing to prevent excess moisture.
Freezing
Homemade cinnamon rolls freeze very well. You can freeze them baked or unbaked.
For baked rolls, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months.
For unbaked rolls, arrange them in a pan, cover tightly and freeze before the second rise. When ready to use, let them thaw and rise before baking.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the cinnamon rolls in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds until soft and warm. You can also reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.
For best results, add a little extra glaze after reheating to keep them soft and gooey.
Tip: Cover the rolls while reheating to prevent them from drying out and to keep that soft and fluffy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
Can I make homemade cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and shape the rolls the night before. Cover them tightly and store in the refrigerator overnight. The next day, let them come to room temperature and rise before baking.
Why are my cinnamon rolls not soft and fluffy?
This usually happens if too much flour is added or if the dough did not rise long enough. For soft and fluffy homemade cinnamon rolls, make sure the dough is slightly soft and allow enough time for rising.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, instant yeast can be used instead of active dry yeast. You can mix it directly with the dry ingredients without activating it in warm milk first.
How do I keep cinnamon rolls soft after baking?
Store the cinnamon rolls in an airtight container and avoid overbaking them. Reheating them slightly before serving also helps bring back their soft and fluffy texture.
Can I freeze cinnamon rolls with frosting?
Yes, you can freeze homemade cinnamon rolls with or without frosting. For best results, freeze them without the glaze and add fresh cream cheese glaze after reheating.
What is the best way to get gooey cinnamon rolls?
For gooey cinnamon rolls, make sure to use enough brown sugar and butter in the filling and avoid overbaking. Adding the glaze while the rolls are still warm also helps create that soft and gooey texture.
Watch the Full Homemade Cinamon Rolls Video
Nutrition per roll:
Calories 320 kcal
Carbohydrates 45 g
Protein 5 g
Fat 14 g
Saturated fat 8 g
Sugar 22 g
Fiber 1 g
Sodium 220 mg
Note Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on the ingredients used.
Conclusion
These homemade cinnamon rolls are the perfect combination of soft, fluffy dough, rich cinnamon filling and a smooth, creamy glaze. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate bakery style cinnamon rolls right in your own kitchen.
Whether you are making them for breakfast, brunch or a cozy weekend treat, these homemade cinnamon rolls will always turn out soft, gooey and full of flavor.
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore more soft and fluffy baking recipes on my website and find your next favorite homemade treat.
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