There’s something magical about pulling a tray of warm cinnamon rolls from the oven. The scent of buttery dough and sweet cinnamon fills the kitchen, and once topped with silky cream cheese frosting, they become completely irresistible.
These Heavenly Cinnamon Rolls are ultra-soft, perfectly spiced, and generously frosted — the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary morning into something special.
🌟 Why This Recipe Works
✨ Pillowy Soft Dough
A properly kneaded and well-proofed dough creates light, fluffy rolls every time.
✨ Perfect Cinnamon-Sugar Balance
Not too sweet, not too spicy — just the right harmony of warmth and sweetness.
✨ Rich Cream Cheese Frosting
Tangy, smooth, and slightly sweet — it melts beautifully over warm rolls.
✨ Double Rise for Maximum Fluff
Letting the dough rise twice ensures a tender, airy texture.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Dough
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2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
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1 cup warm milk
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½ cup granulated sugar
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⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 tsp salt
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2 eggs
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4 cups all-purpose flour
For the Cinnamon Filling
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¾ cup brown sugar
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2 tbsp ground cinnamon
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⅓ cup softened butter
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
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½ cup cream cheese, softened
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¼ cup butter, softened
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1 cup powdered sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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2 tbsp milk
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Guide
1️⃣ Proof the Yeast
Mix warm milk, yeast, and a spoon of sugar. Let sit until foamy (about 5–10 minutes).
2️⃣ Make the Dough
Add melted butter, eggs, sugar, and salt. Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms.
Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled (about 1 hour).
3️⃣ Roll & Fill
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Roll dough into a large rectangle.
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Spread softened butter evenly.
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Mix cinnamon and brown sugar, then sprinkle generously.
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Roll tightly into a log.
4️⃣ Cut & Second Rise
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Slice into even rolls.
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Place in greased baking dish.
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Cover and let rise again until puffy (30–45 minutes).
5️⃣ Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
🍥 Adding the Cream Cheese Frosting
Whip cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth and fluffy.
Spread generously over warm rolls so it melts slightly into every swirl.
Optional: drizzle with salted caramel for extra indulgence.
🔑 Key Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls
✔ Use warm (not hot) milk to activate yeast properly.
✔ Don’t over-flour the dough — it should be soft and slightly tacky.
✔ Roll tightly to create beautiful spirals.
✔ Let them rise fully for maximum fluffiness.
✔ Frost while warm for that bakery-style melt.
🧊 Storage & Serving
Room Temperature: Up to 2 days (airtight container)
Refrigerator: Up to 5 days
Freezer: Up to 2 months (well wrapped)
To serve: Warm slightly in the oven or microwave before adding fresh frosting.
🌿 Variations to Try
🍏 Add diced apples for apple cinnamon rolls
🍫 Sprinkle chocolate chips for a sweet twist
🌰 Add chopped pecans for crunch
🍮 Drizzle with caramel sauce
🥥 Add coconut flakes for tropical flavor
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make them overnight?
Yes! Prepare and shape the rolls, refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh in the morning.
Why cream cheese frosting?
Its slight tang balances the sweet cinnamon filling perfectly.
Can I make them vegan?
Yes — substitute plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cream cheese.
Can I freeze baked rolls?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.
✨ Final Thoughts
Heavenly Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are soft, rich, and deeply comforting. Every bite offers warm cinnamon swirls wrapped in tender dough, finished with creamy frosting that melts into every layer.
They’re perfect for holidays, weekend breakfasts, or whenever you want something truly special.
