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Cinnamon Rolls

Soft, gooey cinnamon rolls with a rich filling and creamy glaze. Perfect for cozy mornings, holiday brunches, or any time you need a little slice of happiness. This recipe guides you step-by-step to bake these comforting treats.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Rise Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours
Course Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 rolls
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
  • Rolling Pin
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Sharp knife or dough cutter
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

Dough:

  • 1 cup 240 ml whole milk, warmed to 110°F (43°C) – Activates yeast and enriches dough.
  • 2¼ teaspoons 7 g active dry yeast – Helps the dough rise.
  • ¼ cup 50 g granulated sugar – Adds sweetness.
  • 4 tablespoons 57 g unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness.
  • 1 large egg room temperature – Provides structure and softness.
  • 3½ cups 440 g all-purpose flour – Forms the dough base.
  • 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor.

Filling:

  • ¾ cup 150 g brown sugar – Sweetens the filling.
  • 4 tablespoons 57 g unsalted butter, softened – Makes the filling spreadable.
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon – Adds warm spice.
  • 1 pinch of salt – Balances sweetness.

Creamy Glaze:

  • 4 ounces 113 g cream cheese, softened – Creates creaminess.
  • 1 cup 120 g powdered sugar, sifted – Sweetens the glaze.
  • 2 tablespoons 30 ml milk (adjust as needed) – Adjusts consistency.
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds flavor.
  • 1 pinch of salt – Enhances flavor balance.

Instructions
 

Dough Preparation:

  • Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly.
  • Mix Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center. Add yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  • Knead: Transfer dough to a floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes (or 5-7 minutes in a stand mixer) until smooth and elastic.
  • First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.

Filling Preparation:

  • Combine brown sugar, softened butter, cinnamon, and salt in a small bowl until smooth.

Assembling the Rolls:

  • Roll Dough: Roll dough into a 16×12-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Spread filling evenly across the dough, edge to edge.
  • Roll and Cut: Roll dough tightly from the long edge. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
  • Arrange and Second Rise: Place rolls in a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.

Baking:

  • Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Bake: Bake rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and fluffy.

Creamy Glaze:

  • Make Glaze: Beat cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Adjust milk for desired consistency.
  • Glaze Rolls: Drizzle glaze over warm rolls, letting it seep into the layers.

Notes

For dairy-free rolls, substitute milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.
Add nuts or dried fruits to the filling for variety.
Rolls freeze well. Reheat at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds.
Keyword baking, breakfast, cinnamon rolls, cozy, Holiday Side Dish, homemade biscuits