When you think of cinnamon rolls, what comes to mind? The sweet, intoxicating aroma wafting through the kitchen as they bake, filling the air with warmth and nostalgia. Each fluffy roll swirls with buttery goodness and a generous sprinkle of cinnamon that dances on your taste buds. These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion, be it a Sunday brunch or a cozy winter afternoon.
Now, imagine pulling apart a warm cinnamon roll, the gooey frosting melting into every crevice. With each bite, you’re transported back to family gatherings where laughter mingled with the scent of freshly baked pastries. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply indulging in a weekend treat, these cinnamon rolls promise a delightful experience that’s hard to resist.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Prepare these delicious cinnamon rolls easily at home without needing professional baking skills
- The flavor is heavenly, thanks to layers of buttery sweetness and aromatic spices
- They look stunning when presented fresh out of the oven, making them an eye-catching centerpiece for any table
- Perfect for breakfast but versatile enough to enjoy as an afternoon snack or dessert!
I still remember the first time I baked cinnamon rolls; my friends couldn’t get enough of them! Their smiles were priceless as they devoured every last bite.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the best texture; it helps create those soft, fluffy layers.
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Granulated Sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance the spice and enhance the dough’s flavor.
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Active Dry Yeast: Fresh yeast is crucial; make sure it’s not expired for optimal rising.
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Whole Milk: Warm milk adds moisture and richness to the dough; don’t skimp on this ingredient!
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Unsalted Butter: Softened butter ensures a rich flavor throughout; trust me, don’t use margarine here.
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Cinnamon: This is where the magic happens; opt for fresh ground for that warm aroma.
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Brown Sugar: Dark brown sugar gives depth and moisture to the filling—sweet goodness all around!
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Eggs: Eggs add structure and richness; using room temperature eggs will yield better results.
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Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla elevates everything; it makes the aroma even more delightful!
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Powdered Sugar (for frosting): This sweet finish is essential; whisk it with milk and vanilla until smooth.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit until foamy for about 5-10 minutes—this step ensures your rolls rise perfectly.
Create the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add melted butter and eggs along with your activated yeast mixture. Mix until well combined into a sticky dough.
Knead It Out: Turn your dough onto a floured surface. Knead it gently for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic—this builds that irresistible texture we love!
Let It Rise: Place your kneaded dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (about 1 hour). Patience is key here!
Add Cinnamon Goodness: Once risen, punch down your dough and roll it out into a rectangle. Spread softened butter over it generously before sprinkling brown sugar and cinnamon evenly across the surface.
Roll & Slice: Starting from one edge, tightly roll up your dough into a log shape. Slice into rolls about 1 inch thick—try not to eat them all during this process!
Bake Until Golden: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange rolls in a greased baking dish and let rise again for about 30 minutes before baking them until golden brown (around 25-30 minutes).
Add Frosting: While they cool slightly, whisk powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle generously over warm rolls—because who doesn’t want extra sweetness?
And there you have it! Fluffy homemade cinnamon rolls that are sure to impress friends and family alike! Enjoy every gooey bite!
You Must Know
- Cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that can brighten any morning
- Their irresistibly sweet aroma fills your kitchen, tempting everyone nearby
- Always let the dough rise properly for fluffy rolls
- A little patience transforms basic ingredients into a warm hug on a plate
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the dough and letting it rise for an hour. While waiting, mix your cinnamon filling. Roll out the dough, spread the filling, then cut and arrange in a baking dish. Bake until golden brown, about 25-30 minutes.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the classic cinnamon for nutmeg or cardamom for unique flavors. Add chocolate chips or nuts into the filling for an extra crunch. Experiment with different frostings like cream cheese or vanilla glaze to suit your taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly and freeze. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their fluffy goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh yeast for better rise and fluffy texture; check expiration dates often
- Avoid over-kneading dough; it can lead to tough rolls instead of soft ones
- Keep a close eye on baking time; underbaking can lead to gooey centers while overbaking makes them dry
Baking cinnamon rolls takes me back to childhood mornings filled with laughter and flour fights in the kitchen with my siblings, where divine smells meant something delicious was about to happen.

FAQ
Can I use whole wheat flour for cinnamon rolls?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used but may require additional liquid for proper texture.
How do I know when my cinnamon rolls are done?
Cinnamon rolls are done when they turn golden brown on top and feel firm to touch.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare them the night before and refrigerate overnight before baking in the morning.
Cinnamon Rolls
Cinnamon rolls are a beloved treat that combine the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and sugar with soft, fluffy dough. Perfect for any gathering or a cozy breakfast at home, these rolls are generously topped with creamy frosting, making them an indulgent delight. Whether you’re reminiscing about family gatherings or creating new memories, this homemade cinnamon roll recipe is sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 rolls 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup whole milk (warm)
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
Instructions
- 1. Activate the yeast: Combine warm milk and yeast in a bowl; let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- 2. Make the dough: In a large bowl, mix flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add melted butter, eggs, and activated yeast; stir until combined into a sticky dough.
- 3. Knead: Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- 4. First rise: Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- 5. Prepare filling: Roll out risen dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter on top, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- 6. Roll & slice: Roll tightly from one edge into a log shape and cut into 12 rolls.
- 7. Second rise: Place rolls in greased baking dish; let rise for another 30 minutes.
- 8. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- 9. Frosting: Mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla; drizzle over warm rolls.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (approx. 100g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg


