Name: The best cinnamon rolls ever Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/3 cup whole milk (320g); 4 teaspoons active dry yeast (or instant yeast); 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g); 5 cups all purpose flour (650g); 2 large eggs, room temperature; 2 teaspoons salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (113g); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (113g); 1 cup light brown sugar, packed (200g); 2 tablespoons cinnamon powder; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup heavy cream (120g), room temperature; 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature (113g); 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (56g); 1/4 cup heavy cream (60g); 1 cup icing sugar (100g)

Jump to Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and a love for all things cozy, get ready because these are truly The best cinnamon rolls ever. Soft, fluffy dough layered with a sinfully rich cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a dreamy cream cheese icing create the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the tender crumb to the gooey center and that irresistible frosting, these rolls redefine comfort food, making every bite an absolute delight you’ll want to share with everyone you love.

The best cinnamon rolls ever Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the tender texture, sweet flavor, and beautiful golden color that make these cinnamon rolls unbeatable. From the rich butter to the touch of salt enhancing every note, you’ll appreciate how every component comes together perfectly.

Whole milk (1 1/3 cup / 320g): Warmed to awaken the yeast and add moisture for soft dough.
Active dry yeast (4 teaspoons): The magical agent that helps the dough rise and become airy.
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup / 100g): Adds sweetness and helps with dough browning.
All-purpose flour (5 cups / 650g): Provides the structure for tender, yet fluffy rolls.
Large eggs (2, room temperature): Give richness and lift to the dough.
Salt (2 teaspoons): Balances the sweetness and strengthens the dough.
Unsalted butter (1/2 cup + 1/2 cup / room temperature & softened, 113g each): Richness that melts into the dough and filling for that luscious texture.
Light brown sugar (1 cup / 200g): Gives a deep molasses flavor to the cinnamon filling.
Cinnamon powder (2 tablespoons): The star spice that weaves warmth and aroma throughout the rolls.
Salt (3/4 teaspoon): Enhances the cinnamon filling’s complexity.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup + 1/4 cup / 120g + 60g): Adds richness both in the baking process and in the cream cheese icing.
Cream cheese (4 oz / 113g, room temperature): Provides tangy balance and creamy texture for the icing.
Icing sugar (1 cup / 100g): Sweetens and smooths out the frosting for that perfect glaze.

How to Make The best cinnamon rolls ever

Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Prepare the Dough

Start by warming the milk just until it’s comfortably warm to the touch—around 100 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Add the yeast and whisk gently, then let it rest until it becomes foamy. This foamy stage means your yeast is alive and ready to do its magic. Next, add the rest of the dough ingredients (sugar, flour, eggs, salt, and room temperature butter) right into the same bowl. Stir everything to form a shaggy dough, then knead either by hand or with a mixer until you have a soft, smooth, and stretchy dough that passes the window-pane test.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Place your dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it snugly, and let it rest in a warm spot for about 60 to 90 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it has doubled in size and springs back gently when poked. This rise is crucial for those breathy, tender layers that make these rolls the best cinnamon rolls ever.

Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Filling

While your dough is rising, whisk together softened butter with cinnamon, light brown sugar, and a pinch of salt to create the rich and aromatic filling. If your butter feels too firm, a few seconds in the microwave will soften it into a perfectly spreadable consistency. This filling is where all the cinnamon goodness and sweetness come alive, promising the ultimate flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Once risen, punch down the dough gently, then roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 12 by 18-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly using a spatula, then slice the dough into 12 strips about one inch wide. Roll each strip tightly into a perfect cinnamon roll and place them snugly in a parchment-lined 9×13 inch baking pan. Allow them to rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffed and springy, which helps lock in that tender softness.

Step 5: Bake with Cream for Extra Moisture

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Just before baking, pour half a cup of heavy cream over the rolls for that extra bit of indulgence that seeps into every crevice as they bake. Bake for about 22 to 25 minutes until the rolls take on a lovely golden hue but remain soft and slightly gooey inside — a key feature that qualifies them as the best cinnamon rolls ever.

Step 6: Prepare and Add the Cream Cheese Icing

While the rolls cool for about 10 minutes, whip together cream cheese, butter, heavy cream, and icing sugar until smooth and creamy. Spread this luscious frosting generously over the warm rolls. The icing melts just slightly, creating luscious pockets of tangy sweetness that complement the cinnamon flawlessly.

How to Serve The best cinnamon rolls ever

Garnishes

For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the cream cheese icing for that satisfying crunch and nutty depth. A light dusting of ground cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce also adds a beautiful finishing touch while elevating the flavor profile.

Side Dishes

Pair these heavenly cinnamon rolls with a hot cup of spiced chai or a freshly brewed coffee to balance the sweetness. Fresh fruit like berries or orange slices can add a refreshing contrast, making your breakfast or brunch spread perfectly balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or special occasions, serve these rolls on a tiered stand or arrange them on a rustic wooden board with some fresh flowers or herbs. You can even freeze individual rolls after shaping and bake them freshly for guests—everyone will be wowed by the warm aroma that fills the room.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the rolls soft and the icing moist and delicious without drying out.

Freezing

These cinnamon rolls freeze really well either before the final rise or after baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently before serving.

Reheating

To revive your cinnamon rolls, warm them in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or microwave individually for 20 to 30 seconds. This brings back the tender, gooey goodness that made them the best cinnamon rolls ever in the first place.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Absolutely! Instant yeast can be used in the same quantity. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients without proofing it in milk first, though the foamy step really helps guarantee a great rise.

Why is my dough sticky and hard to handle?

Sticky dough is essential for soft rolls, but if it’s too sticky, sprinkle only a tablespoon or two more flour and keep kneading. Over-flouring can make the rolls tough instead of light and fluffy.

How do I know when the rolls have risen enough?

You’ll want them doubled in size and when poked gently, the dough should spring back slowly, leaving a slight indentation. This means the dough is aerated, tender, and ready to bake.

Can I make the rolls vegan or dairy-free?

Yes, with some substitutions like plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cream cheese alternatives, you can enjoy a similar texture and taste, although the rich flavor and tenderness might vary slightly.

Is it possible to make the dough ahead of time?

Definitely! Prepare the dough and let it rise once, then refrigerate overnight. The next day, roll, fill, and let them rise before baking. It’s a great way to enjoy the best cinnamon rolls ever with less rush in the morning.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly nothing like the joy of biting into The best cinnamon rolls ever — warm, soft, and overflowing with cinnamon goodness and creamy frosting. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this recipe will become your go-to for comfort and happiness. Go ahead and make a batch today; your kitchen and loved ones will thank you!

The best cinnamon rolls ever Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 30 reviews

Author: Elara
Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the softest, fluffiest, and most flavorful cinnamon rolls with this ultimate recipe. Made from scratch with a rich yeast dough and a spiced cinnamon-sugar filling, these rolls are topped with a luscious cream cheese icing that adds the perfect creamy sweetness. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or any cozy occasion, these cinnamon rolls promise an irresistible treat that melts in your mouth.

Instructions

Activate the yeast: Microwave the whole milk for 20-30 seconds until warm to the touch (about 100-110°F). Add the yeast to the milk, whisk gently, and let it rest for 10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
Mix dough ingredients: In the same bowl, add granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, eggs, salt, and room temperature unsalted butter. Stir them together to form a shaggy dough.
Knead by hand: Transfer the dough onto a clean work surface. Knead using a push-pull motion for 15 minutes. Initially sticky, do not add much flour; after five minutes, clean your hands. If still sticky, add 1-2 tablespoons of flour. Continue until the dough is smooth, stretchy, and passes the windowpane test.
Alternatively, knead with a stand mixer: Place dough in a stand mixer bowl and knead on medium-high speed with the dough hook for 7-10 minutes until elastic and smooth, pulling away from the bowl edges and passing the windowpane test.
First rise: Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with cling wrap, and rest in a warm place for 60-90 minutes until it doubles in size and springs back partly when gently poked.
Prepare filling: While the dough rises, combine softened butter, cinnamon, light brown sugar, and salt. If hard to mix, microwave briefly and stir until spreadable.
Prepare baking pan: Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Shape the rolls: Punch down the risen dough and transfer to a lightly floured surface. Roll out into a 12×18 inch rectangle carefully, using gentle pressure.
Apply filling: Spread the cinnamon-sugar butter mixture evenly over the dough rectangle using a spatula.
Cut and roll: Using a ruler and pizza cutter, cut dough into twelve 1-inch wide strips along the 12-inch side. Roll each strip tightly into a cinnamon roll.
Arrange rolls: Place the rolled strips in the prepared pan in a 4×3 formation, leaving a little space between them.
Second rise: Let the rolls rest in a warm spot for 30-45 minutes till puffed and springy to the touch.
Preheat oven: During the last 20 minutes of rising, set your oven to 350°F (conventional/no fan).
Prepare for baking: Just before baking, carefully pour 1/2 cup of heavy cream over the rolls; this will soak in as they bake, adding moistness.
Bake rolls: Bake for 22-25 minutes until the rolls turn light golden and feel firm but tender. Avoid overbaking to keep them gooey inside.
Cool slightly: Remove the rolls from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before icing.
Make cream cheese icing: Whisk the cream cheese, 1/4 cup unsalted butter, 1/4 cup heavy cream, and icing sugar together until smooth and creamy.
Frost rolls: Generously spread the cream cheese icing over the warm cinnamon rolls, allowing it to melt slightly.
Serve: Enjoy the rolls warm for the best flavor and texture!

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients to ensure better yeast activation and dough consistency.
Do not add excessive flour while kneading to keep the rolls soft and tender.
If the dough feels too sticky, add flour sparingly, 1 tablespoon at a time.
The heavy cream poured over the rolls before baking keeps them moist and rich.
Rolling the strips tightly ensures the classic swirl look and texture.
Allowing the rolls to rise twice contributes to their fluffy texture.
For a sweeter icing, adjust icing sugar quantity to taste.
Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American