Welcome to the only cinnamon roll recipe you'll ever need! These rolls are incredibly soft, fluffy, and packed with a sweet cinnamon-sugar filling, all topped with a dreamy cream cheese icing. Perfect for a special breakfast or a cozy afternoon treat!
- Prep time: 2 hours (includes rising time)
- Cook time: 20-25 minutes
- Servings: 12 rolls
Shop Key Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour
- Active Dry Yeast
- Light Brown Sugar
- Ground Cinnamon
- Confectioners' (Powdered) Sugar
Full Recipe Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed to about 110°F (43°C)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Icing:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup confectioners' sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk, as needed
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes foamy. This shows the yeast is active.
- Mix the Dough: Add the melted butter and egg to the yeast mixture and whisk to combine. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook until a soft dough forms.
- Knead and First Rise: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling: While the dough rises, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined and spreadable.
- Assemble the Rolls: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a 12x18-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border on one of the long edges.
- Roll and Slice: Tightly roll the dough into a log, starting from the long edge. Pinch the seam to seal. Using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal-sized rolls.
- Second Rise and Bake: Place the sliced rolls cut-side up in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, until puffy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Prepare the Icing: While the rolls are baking, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add the confectioners' sugar and vanilla, and beat until creamy. Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Spread the icing over the warm rolls.
