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The Best Cinnamon Roll Recipe

The Best Cinnamon Roll Recipe

There’s something magical about a batch of warm, gooey cinnamon rolls wafting through the house. These rolls are pillow-soft, perfectly spiced, and topped with a creamy glaze everyone will love.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 28 minutes
Rise Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 28 minutes
Course Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 rolls
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large mixing bowl
  • 1 Whisk
  • 1 Rolling Pin
  • 1 Baking Dish

Ingredients
  

Dough

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk or milk alternative, warmed
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 2.25 tsp active dry yeast
  • 2 eggs large
  • 0.25 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 tsp salt

Filling

  • 0.5 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 0.25 cup unsalted butter softened

Glaze

  • 0.25 cup cream cheese softened, or dairy-free alternative
  • 0.25 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp alcohol-free vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp milk to desired consistency

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough

  • Warm the milk until just lukewarm. Dissolve the yeast and a tablespoon of sugar in the milk. Let it sit until foamy, about 5 minutes. Then, whisk in the eggs and melted butter.
  • Add flour, remaining sugar, and salt to a large bowl. Pour in the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth.
  • Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 1 hour.

Filling & Shape

  • Mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top.
  • Tightly roll the dough into a log and slice into rolls. Arrange in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30 to 45 minutes.

Bake & Glaze

  • Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–28 minutes until golden and fluffy.
  • Beat cream cheese, softened butter, and powdered sugar until smooth. Add alcohol-free vanilla and a splash of milk for a creamy texture. Spread over warm rolls.

Notes

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a low oven until just soft and gooey again. For dairy-free rolls, substitute plant-based butter, milk, and cream cheese alternatives. Add nuts or orange zest for tasty variations.