Introduction

Cinnamon rolls are a timeless treat that combines soft, fluffy dough with a sweet, spiced filling and rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy dessert, these homemade cinnamon rolls bring comforting flavors and irresistible gooeyness to your table.

Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
¾ cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
1 large egg
½ tsp salt
⅓ cup brown sugar (packed)
2 tbsp ground cinnamon
¼ cup unsalted butter (softened, for filling)
4 oz cream cheese (softened)
¼ cup unsalted butter (softened, for frosting)
1 cup powdered sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract
1–2 tbsp milk (to adjust frosting texture)

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, stir warm milk, granulated sugar, and yeast together. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes until the mixture is foamy.
Step 2: Add melted butter, egg, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: While the dough rises, mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Set softened butter aside for spreading.
Step 5: Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface into a 14×9-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top.
Step 6: Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 10–12 equal slices and place them spaced slightly apart in a greased baking dish.
Step 7: Cover the rolls and let them rise for a second time, about 30–40 minutes, until puffy.
Step 8: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown.
Step 9: While baking, beat the cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk gradually, mixing until creamy and spreadable.
Step 10: Spread the frosting over the warm rolls right after they come out of the oven. Serve soft and gooey for the best experience.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar filling.
Use bread flour instead of all-purpose for chewier rolls.
Replace cream cheese frosting with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a lighter topping.
Ensure milk is warm, not hot, to activate yeast properly without killing it.

Storage

Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving. The frosting may soften when chilled; allow rolls to come to room temperature for best texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Bring it to room temperature before rolling and filling.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls should be golden brown on top and cooked through. You can check by inserting a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean or with moist crumbs, not raw dough.