There’s nothing quite like the comforting scent of warm cinnamon rolls baking in the oven. This classic cinnamon roll recipe creates soft, fluffy rolls with a rich cinnamon-sugar swirl and optional cream cheese glaze. Whether for a weekend breakfast, holiday brunch, or indulgent treat, this recipe delivers bakery-style results right from your home kitchen.
🧾 Ingredients:
For the Dough:
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1 cup warm milk (110°F / 45°C)
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2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
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½ cup granulated sugar
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2 eggs, room temperature
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1/3 cup butter, melted
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4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)
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1 tsp salt
For the Cinnamon Filling:
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¾ cup brown sugar, packed
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2 tbsp ground cinnamon
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1/3 cup softened butter
(Optional) For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
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2 tbsp butter, softened
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1 cup powdered sugar
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½ tsp vanilla extract
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1–2 tbsp milk, to desired consistency
👨🍳 Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let sit for about 5–10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to help the dough rise.
2. Make the Dough
Add the rest of the sugar, melted butter, eggs, salt, and about half of the flour to the bowl. Mix until combined. Gradually add the remaining flour and knead until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms (about 8–10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes using a stand mixer with a dough hook).
3. First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
5. Roll Out the Dough
Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 16×12 inches). Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously on top.
6. Roll and Cut
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.
7. Second Rise
Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Cover and let rise for another 30–45 minutes, or until puffy.
8. Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 22–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Be careful not to overbake—soft is the goal!
9. Prepare the Glaze
While the rolls cool slightly, whisk together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth and pourable.
10. Glaze and Serve
Spread or drizzle the glaze over warm rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy!
🥄 Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls:
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Warm ingredients help activate the yeast and give the dough a great rise.
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Use floss to slice the dough to keep the spiral neat and even.
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For overnight rolls: After the second rise, cover and refrigerate overnight. Let come to room temperature before baking.
🧡 Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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Incredibly soft and fluffy dough
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Rich cinnamon sugar swirl
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Easy to make ahead
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Customizable with nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips
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Optional cream cheese glaze for bakery-style indulgence
Final Thoughts
These homemade cinnamon rolls are pure comfort food. Whether you’re baking for a special morning or treating yourself on a cozy afternoon, they never disappoint. With this simple recipe, your kitchen will smell like a bakery and your heart will be full.
