Delicious Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
These easy homemade cinnamon rolls are soft, gooey, and delicious! They’re my family’s favorite holiday breakfast, and this recipe includes make-ahead instructions for your convenience!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cinnamon roll recipe is our family’s holiday staple. It results in tender, fluffy rolls filled with a rich brown sugar and cinnamon swirl. To top it off, a gooey vanilla glaze (or cream cheese frosting) crowns these delightful treats.
First shared in 2019 and now boasting over 350 five-star reviews, this recipe has become a beloved favorite! It features updated photos, make-ahead and freezing strategies, and tips for success.
If you’ve never attempted homemade cinnamon rolls, you’ll be amazed at how simple they are! Perfect for Christmas, Easter, or any weekend brunch, I hope you love them as much as I do!
Ingredients for Cinnamon Rolls
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Active dry yeast or instant yeast | Helps the dough rise. |
| Melted butter and milk | Add moisture and richness to the dough. |
| Sugar | Makes the dough lightly sweet. |
| Sea salt | Essential for flavor. |
| All-purpose flour | Base ingredient for the dough. |
| Dark brown sugar and cinnamon | Create the filling. |
| Powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk | For the glaze. |
Find the complete recipe with measurements below.
Recipe Variation
Make Vegan Cinnamon Rolls: Easily adapt this recipe to be vegan by substituting almond milk for regular milk and melted coconut oil for butter!
How to Make Cinnamon Rolls
This recipe is straightforward and requires no stand mixer. It consists of three main steps:
- Making the dough
- Filling and shaping the rolls
- Baking and icing them
Making the Dough
1. Proof the yeast: Mix it with warm water and sugar, then let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Mix melted butter, milk, sugar, salt, and the yeast mixture in a bowl. Then, incorporate the flour gradually.
3. Knead the dough: Knead the mixture until smooth, and then let it rise in a greased bowl covered with a towel until doubled in size.
Filling and Shaping the Rolls
1. Roll out the dough: Create a large rectangle and brush it with melted butter.
2. Add the filling: Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon evenly over the dough.
3. Shape the rolls: Roll the dough into a log, slice into 12 pieces, and place them cut-side up in a greased baking pan. Let rise again.
Baking and Icing the Rolls
1. Preheat the oven: Set to 350°F.
2. Bake: Cook the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown. Allow them to cool for 10 minutes before icing with the glaze.
Cinnamon Roll Tips
- Use room temperature milk for optimal rising.
- Let the dough rise in a warm area to enhance yeast activation.
- Add glaze while the rolls are warm but not piping hot.
Making Overnight Cinnamon Rolls
Assemble your cinnamon rolls the night before to bake fresh in the morning. After slicing the rolls, store them in the fridge overnight and let them sit at room temperature for an hour before baking.
Storage Tips
Store homemade cinnamon rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly and thaw overnight before reheating in a 350°F oven.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I make cinnamon rolls fluffy?
Ensure your yeast is fresh and always proof it before adding it to the dough. Keep the proofing water between 105°F to 115°F to avoid killing the yeast.
Can I make cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the rolls the night before and refrigerate them. Let them rise at room temperature before baking.