The Best Cinnamon Rolls ✨

Name: The Best Cinnamon Rolls ✨
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast; 1 cup milk, warmed; 1/3 cup butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 tbsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tbsp milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the heavenly delight of The Best Cinnamon Rolls, a treat that combines warm, fluffy dough with a sweet cinnamon filling and a luscious glaze.

Created by

Madison Brooks

Last updated on 2025-12-09T22:11:36.726Z

These cinnamon rolls are a family favorite, perfect for any occasion. The dough rises beautifully and the cinnamon filling creates a delightful aroma in your kitchen. Once baked, they are topped with a creamy glaze that makes them irresistible!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Soft and fluffy texture with a gooey cinnamon center
Perfectly sweet glaze that complements the rolls
Great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert

      

The Perfect Weekend Treat

There's something truly special about cinnamon rolls that makes them the perfect weekend treat. Whether you're enjoying a lazy Sunday morning or hosting a brunch with friends, these warm, gooey rolls are sure to impress. The delightful aroma of cinnamon wafting through your home will create an inviting atmosphere, making it impossible to resist. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, so you can enjoy your leisurely morning without the stress of last-minute baking.

Imagine waking up to the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, golden and fluffy, waiting for you on the kitchen counter. With just a little preparation the night before, you can have these delicious rolls ready to bake in the morning. Simply prepare the dough and shape the rolls, then cover them and let them rise overnight in the fridge. In the morning, take them out, let them come to room temperature, and bake. It's a wonderful way to start your day!

Customizing Your Rolls

One of the best things about cinnamon rolls is their versatility. While the classic recipe is undeniably delicious, you can easily customize these rolls to suit your taste. Consider adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for an added crunch. You could also incorporate dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a burst of flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a hint of orange zest to the filling for a refreshing twist.

Don’t forget about the glaze! While the traditional vanilla glaze is delightful, you can experiment with flavors to elevate your cinnamon rolls. Try a maple glaze for a rich, earthy sweetness or a cream cheese frosting for an indulgent finish. Whatever you choose, the glaze adds that final touch that takes your cinnamon rolls from good to extraordinary.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have any cinnamon rolls left over (though that’s unlikely!), storing them properly is key to maintaining their soft, fluffy texture. Allow the rolls to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can be kept for up to two days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your cinnamon rolls again, reheating them is a breeze. If they're at room temperature, simply pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. If frozen, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat as directed. You can also warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes for that freshly-baked taste.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious cinnamon rolls:

Dough Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1 cup milk, warmed
1/3 cup butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 tsp salt

Filling Ingredients

1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp ground cinnamon
1/4 cup butter, softened

Glaze Ingredients

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

Make sure to have all ingredients measured and ready for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect cinnamon rolls:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. Add melted butter, eggs, and salt, mixing well. Gradually add flour, kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Make the Filling

In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle, spread softened butter over it, and sprinkle the cinnamon mixture on top.

Roll and Cut

Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut it into 12 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a greased baking pan and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Bake the Rolls

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Prepare the Glaze

While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the warm rolls once they are out of the oven.

Enjoy your freshly baked cinnamon rolls warm or at room temperature!

Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect cinnamon rolls, it’s essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for the flour to ensure you're getting just the right amount. Too much flour can lead to dense rolls, while too little can make them overly sticky. Additionally, when activating your yeast, make sure the milk is warm but not hot—too much heat can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising.

Kneading the dough is another crucial step. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. This process develops the gluten, giving your rolls their soft, pillowy texture. If you have a stand mixer, use the dough hook attachment to save time and effort!

Serving Suggestions

Cinnamon rolls are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience with a few serving suggestions. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of orange juice for a balanced breakfast. If you want to make it a full brunch spread, consider serving them alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, or even a savory egg dish. These rolls also make a lovely dessert option, especially when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped nuts or shredded coconut on top of the glaze before it sets. This not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful presentation. Your guests will be impressed, and you’ll be the star of the brunch!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling.

→ How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.

→ What can I use instead of milk?

You can use almond milk or any other non-dairy milk as a substitute.