Classic Cinnamon Rolls

Soft, fluffy, and swirled with buttery cinnamon sugar, Classic Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate comfort bake. Finished with a rich cream cheese frosting that melts into every swirl, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, holidays, or whenever you crave something warm and sweet.

This homemade version gives you bakery-style results with a tender, pillowy texture and that irresistible gooey center.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultra-soft, fluffy dough
Thick cinnamon-sugar filling
Gooey centers with golden edges
Rich cream cheese frosting
Perfect for make-ahead baking

Ingredients (Makes 12 Rolls)

For the Dough

1 cup (240 ml) warm milk (about 43°C / 110°F)
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
1 large egg + 1 egg yolk (room temperature)
¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon Filling

½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup (150 g) brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup (90 g) powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1–2 tablespoons milk (for desired consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl, combine warm milk and sugar.
Sprinkle yeast on top.
Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be inactive.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Add egg, egg yolk, and melted butter to the yeast mixture.
Mix in flour and salt gradually.
Knead for 8–10 minutes (by hand or mixer) until smooth and elastic.
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1½ hours until doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
Set aside softened butter separately.

Step 4: Roll & Fill

Roll dough into a rectangle (about 14×9 inches).
Spread softened butter evenly over surface.
Sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly.
Roll tightly from the long side into a log.
Slice into 12 equal rolls.

Step 5: Second Rise

Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cover and let rise 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).
Bake 20–25 minutes until lightly golden.
Do not overbake — centers should stay soft.

Step 7: Frost & Serve

Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk.
Spread frosting over warm rolls.

Serve warm for the ultimate gooey texture.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls

Use room-temperature ingredients for best rise.
Don’t overheat the milk — it can kill the yeast.
Roll tightly to get beautiful swirls.
Slightly underbake for extra softness.
Frost while warm so icing melts into the rolls.

Make-Ahead Option

After shaping rolls, cover tightly and refrigerate overnight.
In the morning, let them sit at room temperature 30–45 minutes before baking.

Delicious Variations

Extra Gooey Rolls

Pour ½ cup warm heavy cream over rolls before baking.

Maple Frosting

Replace vanilla with maple extract.

Nutty Cinnamon Rolls

Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling.

Orange Cinnamon Rolls

Add orange zest to the filling and frosting.

Storage

Room Temperature: 2 days (covered)
Refrigerator: Up to 5 days
Freezer: Up to 2 months

Reheat in microwave for 15–20 seconds before serving.

Approximate Nutrition (Per Roll)

Calories: 350–400
Protein: 6–8 g
Carbohydrates: 50–55 g
Fat: 15–18 g

Final Thoughts

Classic Cinnamon Rolls are timeless for a reason. Soft dough, rich cinnamon filling, and creamy frosting create a comforting treat that feels like home in every bite.