Name: Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting; 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast; ½ cup (120ml) whole milk, warmed to 110°F; ⅓ cup (75g) granulated sugar; ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs, room temperature; ½ teaspoon salt; ⅔ cup (135g) light brown sugar, packed; 2 tablespoon ground cinnamon; ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted; 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, room temperature; ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened; ¾ cup (90g) powdered sugar; ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Nothing says cozy breakfast bliss like a batch of warm, gooey cinnamon rolls fresh from the oven! These cinnamon rolls are absolutely dreamy-soft, pillowy dough spiraled with buttery brown sugar cinnamon and slathered in rich cream cheese icing.

Every bite melts in your mouth, with just the right amount of sweetness, spice, and irresistible stickiness. This is the cinnamon rolls recipe you'll crave anytime you want pure comfort (and bakery-worthy results) at home.

They're surprisingly simple to make and a true showstopper for brunch, holidays, or whenever you want to treat yourself. Whether you're a beginner baker or a weekend pro, this cinnamon roll recipe is a must-try-my family asks for it every single Christmas morning!

A pan of golden cinnamon rolls drizzled with cream cheese frosting.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Buttery, fluffy, bakery-style cinnamon rolls at home-no fancy equipment needed!
Foolproof step-by-step instructions make these totally doable, even if you're new to baking.
Perfect for gatherings; everyone will rave and reach for seconds.
Freezes beautifully-make ahead and bake fresh anytime.

Key Ingredients for Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

All-Purpose Flour

The sturdy backbone of your cinnamon rolls! Use unbleached all-purpose flour for the perfect balance of structure and tenderness. Bread flour can also be used if you want an extra-chewy roll, but all-purpose keeps the texture wonderfully soft and pillowy.

Instant Yeast

Yeast is the magical ingredient that gives these rolls their signature fluff and rise. I recommend instant (rapid-rise) yeast for speed and reliability-you can mix it right into your dry ingredients with no need to proof. Active dry yeast also works; just let it bloom in warm milk before proceeding.

Whole Milk

Rich, warm milk creates an ultra-soft, enriched dough. For best results, use whole milk, but 2% will also do. Warm your milk to about 110°F (just warm to the touch), which helps activate the yeast and encourages beautiful rising.

Brown Sugar

The secret to gooey, caramel-like swirls! Brown sugar (light or dark) adds moistness and rich molasses notes to the cinnamon filling. You can use all granulated sugar if needed, but brown sugar gives that classic sticky sweetness.

Cream Cheese

For the ultimate finishing touch, cream cheese makes the frosting tangy, luscious, and irresistible. Use full-fat block-style cream cheese for smoothest results. For a lighter twist, you could swap in neufchâtel cheese, though the frosting may be slightly softer.

Instructions for Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer), whisk together the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Add softened butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead by hand or mixer for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle in a little extra flour as needed.

First Rise

Shape dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for 60-90 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, stir together brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Melt the butter-this will be brushed over the dough to help the cinnamon sugar stick and create those gooey centers.

Roll Out and Fill

Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 16x12-inch rectangle. Brush evenly with melted butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture all over, pressing lightly to adhere.

Shape and Second Rise

Starting from one long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Slice into 8 even rolls with a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss. Arrange in a greased 9x13-inch baking pan, cover, and let rise again for 30-45 minutes, until puffy.

Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 22-25 minutes, or until lightly golden and centers register about 190°F. Don't overbake-soft and tender is what you want!

Make the Cream Cheese Icing

While the rolls bake, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.

Frost and Serve

Spread the icing generously over the warm rolls as soon as they come out of the oven. Enjoy immediately, relishing the gooey, sticky, melt-in-your-mouth goodness!

Recipe Variations

Make Ahead Overnight Rolls

Want fresh cinnamon rolls for breakfast without waking up early? After shaping and placing in the pan, cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise for about 45 minutes before baking as directed.

Add a Nutty Crunch

Stir ½ cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts into the filling before rolling up for irresistible crunch and flavor.

Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls

Swap in your favorite 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose. You may need to add a touch more milk for moisture, as gluten-free flours can absorb more liquid.

Vegan Option

Replace dairy milk with a non-dairy alternative (like almond or oat milk), use vegan butter, and opt for a vegan cream cheese or simple vanilla glaze instead of classic icing.

Go Fruity

Sprinkle a handful of raisins or chopped dried fruit into the filling for a classic bakery touch!

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cinnamon rolls warm for maximum gooeyness, paired with a piping hot cup of coffee or creamy chai latte. For a brunch spread, add a fresh fruit salad, crispy bacon, or scrambled eggs on the side. Top each roll with a few extra swirls of cream cheese icing and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a bakery-worthy finish.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover cinnamon rolls tightly covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat individual rolls in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a 300°F oven (covered with foil) for 10 minutes. For longer storage, freeze unfrosted rolls for up to 2 months; thaw overnight and warm before icing and serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Rolls Recipe (FAQ)

Q: Can I make the cinnamon roll dough ahead of time?

A: Yes! After shaping the rolls and placing them in the pan, cover and refrigerate overnight. Let them rise at room temperature before baking in the morning.

Q: How do I know when my dough has risen enough?

A: The dough should be doubled in size and a gentle press with your finger should leave an indentation that doesn't spring back quickly.

Q: Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

A: Absolutely! Just proof the active dry yeast in warm milk with sugar for 5-10 minutes before mixing it into the dough.

There you have it-the ultimate cinnamon rolls recipe, guaranteed to satisfy every sweet tooth! I hope you love these soft, gooey, and impossibly delicious rolls as much as we do. If you try this recipe, be sure to leave a comment and a rating below-your feedback makes my day!