These homemade cinnamon rolls are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. With a soft, fluffy texture, a rich cinnamon-sugar filling, and a creamy cream cheese icing, they’re a treat worth every step of the process. Follow this easy, detailed recipe to create the best cinnamon rolls you’ve ever tasted!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Soft & Fluffy: Bread flour ensures a perfect chewy texture.
- Rich Flavor: Dark brown sugar and cinnamon create a decadent filling, topped with luxurious cream cheese icing.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dough the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 cup milk (2% or whole milk recommended, but almond milk works too) 🥛
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for activating the yeast) 🫚
- 2 1/4 teaspoons quick-rise yeast (1 packet, or use active dry yeast) 🍞
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for greasing the bowl) 🧈
- 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk (room temperature) 🥚
- 3 1/2 – 4 cups bread flour (plus extra for dusting) 🌾
- 1 teaspoon salt 🧂
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for spreading) 🧈
- 3/4 cup dark brown sugar (or light brown sugar) 🫚
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon 🌿
For the Icing:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened 🧀
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted 🫚
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 🌸
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast 🍞
- Warm the milk to 110°F–115°F (43°C–46°C). Combine with sugar and yeast, let sit until frothy (5–10 minutes).
- Add melted butter, egg, and egg yolk. Whisk until smooth.
Step 2: Make the Dough 🥄
- Stir in 3 1/2 cups bread flour and salt. Knead for 5–7 minutes, adding up to 1/2 cup more flour until smooth and elastic.
- Let dough rise in a greased bowl for 1–1 1/2 hours until doubled in size.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling 🌶️
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls 🥮
- Roll dough into a 16×12-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter, sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture, and roll tightly. Cut into 12 slices.
Step 5: Second Rise ⏳
- Let rolls rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
Step 6: Bake 🔥
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
Step 7: Make the Icing 🧀
- Beat cream cheese and butter. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
Step 8: Ice and Serve 🍴
- Drizzle icing over warm rolls. Serve and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- Milk Temperature: Keep milk between 110°F–115°F to avoid killing yeast.
- Make Ahead: Refrigerate assembled rolls overnight, then bake fresh.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days or refrigerate for 5 days.
These homemade cinnamon rolls are a must-try for any baking enthusiast. Their pillowy texture, rich flavor, and creamy icing make them a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for any occasion, they’ll become a family favorite!
