Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls: The Ultimate Recipe

Easy homemade cinnamon rolls, warm from the oven and slathered in creamy frosting, are the ultimate comfort food. Is there anything better than that first bite of soft, sweet dough, swirled with cinnamon-sugar goodness? I think not! These aren’t just any cinnamon rolls; they’re a slice of pure happiness, and I’m thrilled to share my foolproof recipe with you.

Cinnamon rolls have a rich history, believed to have originated in Sweden and Denmark, where they are known as “kanelbullar” and “kanelsnegle,” respectively. These sweet treats have since become a beloved staple in bakeries and homes worldwide, evolving into countless variations. But the essence remains the same: a celebration of simple pleasures and shared moments.

What makes easy homemade cinnamon rolls so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures – the soft, pillowy dough, the gooey cinnamon filling, and the smooth, decadent frosting. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water! Plus, while they might seem intimidating to make, my recipe is designed to be surprisingly simple and straightforward, even for beginner bakers. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these delightful treats that are guaranteed to disappear in minutes!

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (about 105-115°F or 40-46°C)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 3 ½ cups (420g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• For the Filling:
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150g) packed light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 4 ounces (115g) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup (55g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups (180g) powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Making the Dough

1. Proof the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and granulated sugar. Gently stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes foamy. This step ensures that your yeast is active and will help your dough rise properly. If the mixture doesn’t foam, your yeast might be old or the milk might be too hot or cold. You’ll need to start over with fresh yeast.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: Once the yeast mixture is foamy, add the melted butter, salt, and egg to the bowl. Whisk everything together until well combined. The melted butter should be cooled slightly before adding it, so it doesn’t cook the egg.
3. Add the Flour: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, to the wet ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. Be careful not to add all the flour at once, as the amount needed can vary depending on the humidity and other factors.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it’s manageable. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky, but not overly sticky.
5. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. The warmer the environment, the faster the dough will rise. You can place the bowl in a slightly warmed oven (turned off!) or near a sunny window.

Preparing the Filling and Shaping the Rolls

1. Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the cinnamon filling. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix with a fork or spatula until well combined and the mixture is smooth and spreadable. Make sure the butter is truly softened, or it will be difficult to mix properly.
2. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches. Try to keep the rectangle as even as possible, so the rolls will be uniform in size.
3. Spread the Filling: Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border along one of the long edges. This border will help seal the rolls when you roll them up. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the filling smoothly and evenly.
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 it closed. Make sure the roll is tight, but not too tight, or the rolls may burst open during baking.
5. Cut the Rolls: Use a sharp serrated knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal slices. For even rolls, you can trim the ends of the log before cutting the slices. To use dental floss, slide a piece of floss under the log, cross the ends over the top, and pull to cut through the dough. This method helps prevent the rolls from getting squished.
6. Second Rise: Place the cut rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the rolls rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up and are touching each other. This second rise is important for creating soft and fluffy cinnamon 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 the rolls, as this will ensure even baking.
2. Bake the Rolls: Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them. If the tops of the rolls are browning too quickly, you can tent them with foil.
3. Cool Slightly: Remove the cinnamon rolls from the oven and let them cool in the baking dish for about 10-15 minutes before frosting. This allows the rolls to set slightly and prevents the frosting from melting too much.

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: While the rolls are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Make sure both the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature, or the frosting may be lumpy.
2. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until combined. Be careful not to add the powdered sugar too quickly, or it will create a cloud of dust.
3. Add Milk and Vanilla: Add the milk and vanilla extract and beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, if needed to reach your desired consistency.

Frosting and Serving

1. Frost the Rolls: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the warm cinnamon rolls. You can use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the frosting smoothly.
2. Serve: Serve the cinnamon rolls warm and enjoy! These are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up.

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Rolls

• Use Fresh Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh and active for the best results.
• Don’t Overheat the Milk: The milk should be warm, but not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
• Knead the Dough Well: Kneading the dough properly is essential for developing gluten and creating a soft and chewy texture.
• Let the Dough Rise Properly: Give the dough enough time to rise in a warm place for the best results.
• Don’t Overbake: Overbaking the rolls will make them dry and tough.
• Use Softened Butter and Cream Cheese: Softened butter and cream cheese will ensure a smooth and creamy frosting.

Variations

• Add Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
• Add Raisins: Add raisins to the filling for a classic cinnamon roll flavor.
• Maple Frosting: Substitute maple syrup for some of the milk in the frosting for a maple-flavored frosting.
• Orange Zest: Add orange zest to the dough or filling for a citrusy twist.

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another cinnamon roll recipe; it’s an invitation to experience pure, unadulterated joy, one warm, gooey bite at a time. I truly believe these easy homemade cinnamon rolls are a must-try for anyone who appreciates the simple pleasures in life. From the satisfying process of kneading the dough to the intoxicating aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake, this recipe is a sensory delight from start to finish. The resulting rolls are incredibly soft, perfectly spiced, and generously slathered in a creamy, dreamy frosting that will have you reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds!).

But what truly sets these cinnamon rolls apart is their versatility. While they are absolutely divine served warm, straight from the oven, there are countless ways to customize them to your liking. For a brunch gathering, try slicing them horizontally and using them as the base for a decadent French toast. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a delightful nutty crunch. A drizzle of salted caramel sauce over the frosting elevates them to a whole new level of indulgence.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Classic with a Twist: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough for a subtle citrusy note.
* Nutty Delight: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon-sugar filling.
* Coffee Infusion: Brush the baked rolls with a strong coffee glaze for a mocha-inspired treat.
* Savory-Sweet: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the frosting to balance the sweetness.
* Holiday Cheer: Add dried cranberries and a hint of nutmeg to the filling for a festive touch.
* Overnight Sensation: Prepare the rolls up to the baking stage, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let them rise for about an hour before baking in the morning for a fresh, warm breakfast.
* Ice Cream Sundae: Warm a cinnamon roll and top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce.

I’ve poured my heart and soul into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that it will become a staple in your home, just as it has in mine. These easy homemade cinnamon rolls are perfect for weekend brunches, holiday gatherings, or simply a cozy night in. They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and they’re sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and fill your home with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls. I promise you won’t regret it!

I’m incredibly excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of homemade cinnamon rolls for yourself. Once you’ve had a chance to bake them, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Share your photos, your variations, and your stories in the comments below. Let me know what you thought of the recipe, what you changed, and how much your family and friends enjoyed them. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating and sharing recipes that you’ll love. Happy baking!