Homemade Cinamon Rolls Recipe
Few things can compare to the warm aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls filling the kitchen. Soft, fluffy, and swirled with buttery cinnamon sugar, these rolls are the kind of treat that brings comfort and joy in every bite. Making cinnamon rolls at home may seem like a labor of love, but the reward of pulling a golden tray out of the oven and topping it with sweet glaze is worth every step.
Homemade cinnamon rolls are not only about taste but also about the experience. The process of kneading the dough, letting it rise, and rolling it with spiced filling is almost therapeutic. Served warm with gooey icing, they are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Whether you’re baking for a holiday morning, a family gathering, or simply to indulge in something special, this recipe will guide you to achieve bakery quality cinnamon rolls right at home.
Why You Need This Recipe
This recipe allows you to enjoy soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls with a gooey cinnamon sugar center and a luscious glaze on top without relying on store bought versions. It is perfect for beginners since the steps are simple and easy to follow, yet the results feel indulgent and bakery style. With a little patience and the right ingredients, you will create cinnamon rolls that melt in your mouth and taste even better than what you’d find at a cafe.
Ingredients
To help you stay organized, here’s a clear breakdown of ingredients with approximate calorie counts per batch:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 4 cups | 1440 |
| Warm milk | 1 cup | 150 |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup | 400 |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (melted) | 800 |
| Large eggs | 2 | 140 |
| Active dry yeast | 2 1/4 tsp | 20 |
| Salt | 1 tsp | 0 |
| Brown sugar | 3/4 cup | 600 |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 tbsp | 36 |
| Cream cheese | 4 oz | 400 |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup | 480 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | 12 |
How to Prepare
Start by activating the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar and let it sit until foamy. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, melted butter, and eggs, then add the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about an hour or until doubled in size. Once risen, roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter over it, and sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into even rolls. Place them in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise again for 30 minutes. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown. For the glaze, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla until smooth, then spread over warm rolls before serving.
Pro Tips
For the fluffiest cinnamon rolls, make sure your yeast is fresh and your milk is warm, not hot, to activate it properly without killing it. Allowing the dough to rise fully is key to soft rolls, so be patient during the proofing stages. When rolling the dough, keep the layer of cinnamon sugar even to ensure every bite has the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. For an extra indulgent touch, spread the glaze while the rolls are still warm so it melts slightly into the swirls. If you want to prepare ahead, you can refrigerate the rolls overnight after shaping and bake them fresh the next morning.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Cinnamon rolls taste incredible on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, spiced tea, or a glass of warm milk. You can also add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of chopped pecans for extra texture. For a festive twist, top them with a light dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle with white chocolate for an elegant finish.
Conclusion
Homemade cinnamon rolls are a timeless treat that combine soft dough, rich cinnamon filling, and sweet glaze into one irresistible bite. They are perfect for making any morning feel special, whether for a cozy breakfast at home or a festive holiday gathering. Once you try this recipe, you may never go back to store bought cinnamon rolls again.
