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Cinnamon Roll Recipe

These soft, gooey, foolproof cinnamon rolls are bakery-worthy yet easy enough for home bakers. Fluffy dough, buttery cinnamon sugar swirls, and creamy frosting make them perfect for holidays, brunch, or cozy mornings at home.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
resting 1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • For the Dough:
  • 1 cup warm milk 110°F
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast 1 packet
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • For the Filling:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • For the Frosting:
  • 4 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 –2 tablespoons milk as needed for consistency
  • Optional Add-ins:
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans walnuts, or raisins

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in sugar, melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms.
  2. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  3. Roll Out the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a 16x12-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough.
  4. Add the Filling: Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the buttered dough. Add optional nuts or raisins.
  5. Shape the Rolls: Starting from the long side, roll the dough into a log. Slice into 12 equal rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.
  6. Second Rise: Arrange rolls in a greased 9x13-inch pan. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes, until puffy.
  7. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake rolls for 22–25 minutes, until lightly golden on top.
  8. Make the Frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth and spreadable.
  9. Frost and Serve: Spread frosting over warm rolls so it melts slightly into the swirls. Serve immediately and enjoy.