Name: The Best Small Batch Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra for kneading; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 ½ teaspoons instant yeast; ⅓ cup whole milk, lukewarm; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg yolk; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, very soft; ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 ounces cream cheese, softened; ¼ cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon milk (add more as needed)

There's nothing quite like biting into a soft, gooey cinnamon roll, fresh out of the oven-and when you don't need a whole panful, The Best Small Batch Cinnamon Rolls will totally make your day! These rolls are insanely fluffy, tender, and swirled with the perfect blend of sweet cinnamon and buttery goodness.

You'll love that they're just the right size for a cozy weekend breakfast, a sweet treat with coffee, or any time you're craving something special without the fuss (or leftovers) of a big batch. This simple recipe comes together quickly, uses basic pantry ingredients, and fills your kitchen with the most irresistible bakery aromas!

Small enough for two to four people, they're ideal for satisfying your cinnamon roll cravings, any time. Inspired by lazy Sunday mornings and family traditions, this recipe is proof that the best things do come in small (batch) packages.

Warm and gooey cinnamon rolls, freshly glazed and ready to serve.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Bakes up soft and fluffy every single time, with minimal effort
Perfectly portioned for 2-4 people, so no waste or tempting leftovers
Uses simple pantry staples-no fancy ingredients required
Ready in less than two hours, with minimal hands-on time

Key Ingredients for The Best Small Batch Cinnamon Rolls

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

All-Purpose Flour

This classic flour forms the foundation of your cinnamon roll dough, ensuring a wonderfully soft, tender crumb. For best results, measure your flour correctly using the spoon-and-level method. You can use bread flour for a slightly chewier texture, but stick with all-purpose for the fluffiest results.

Instant Yeast

Instant yeast makes these rolls quick and reliable. It helps the dough rise beautifully without a long wait time. If you have only active dry yeast, you can substitute it-just dissolve it in the warm milk for five minutes before adding it to the dough.

Whole Milk

Whole milk adds richness and helps create a super soft, pillowy dough. Make sure it's lukewarm to activate the yeast. If you prefer, 2 percent milk or even unsweetened plant-based milk (like oat or almond) will work, though the rolls may be just a touch less rich.

Unsalted Butter

Butter is the star of the show here, bringing luscious flavor both to the dough and the cinnamon-sugar filling. Use room temperature butter so it blends smoothly. You can sub with margarine or vegan butter if needed for a dairy-free version.

Brown Sugar

Brown sugar gives that caramelized, gooey filling we all crave in a cinnamon roll. It also lends extra moisture compared to white sugar. Light or dark brown sugar are both great; dark brown sugar will add a hint more molasses flavor, which is delicious!

The Best Small Batch Cinnamon Rolls cooking process

Instructions for The Best Small Batch Cinnamon Rolls

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

Mix the Dough

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Add the lukewarm milk, softened butter, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead and Let Dough Rise

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead gently for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place it into a lightly greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Prepare the Filling

While the dough rises, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl. Make sure your butter for the filling is soft and spreadable.

Shape and Fill the Rolls

After the dough has risen, gently punch it down. Roll it out on a floured surface into an 8x6 inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter all over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top.

Roll Up and Slice

Starting from the longer edge, roll the dough up tightly into a log. Slice into 4 equal rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.

Second Rise

Arrange the rolls in a lightly greased 6-inch round baking dish or cake pan. Cover loosely and let rise for 30 minutes, until puffy.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 22-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. If needed, cover loosely with foil halfway through to keep the tops from over-browning.

Make the Glaze

While the rolls bake, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla until smooth. Add milk as needed to reach a pourable consistency.

Frost and Enjoy

Let the cinnamon rolls cool for 5 minutes, then spread the glaze generously over the warm rolls. Dive in and enjoy!

Recipe Variations

Make It Dairy-Free

Use your favorite non-dairy milk (like oat, almond, or soy) and swap the butter and cream cheese for plant-based alternatives. You'll still get soft, flavorful rolls!

Add Chopped Nuts or Raisins

Before rolling up the dough, sprinkle a handful of chopped pecans, walnuts, or plump raisins over the filling for extra crunch or chew.

Citrus Twist

Stir a little orange or lemon zest into the filling or glaze to give your cinnamon rolls a bright, tangy pop-perfect for spring or holiday mornings.

Go Gluten-Free

Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour (make sure it includes xanthan gum). The rolls will be a little more delicate but still delicious!

Maple Glaze Instead

Skip the cream cheese and drizzle your rolls with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a splash of milk for a breakfast treat with cozy fall vibes.

Serving Suggestions

These rolls shine at breakfast or brunch alongside a hot mug of coffee, chai, or a cool glass of milk. Serve them with fresh fruit or a light egg scramble to balance the sweetness. For an extra-special touch, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or a pinch of extra cinnamon over the glaze before serving.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave each roll for about 20 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for 5-8 minutes. For longer storage, freeze unglazed rolls individually, then thaw and warm before adding the glaze.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Small Batch Cinnamon Rolls (FAQ)

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time and bake later?

A: Yes! After shaping the rolls, cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature and rise until puffy, about 45 minutes, before baking.

Q: Can I double this recipe for more servings?

A: Absolutely. Just double all the ingredients and bake in an 8-inch square pan, adjusting baking time as needed.

Q: Why didn’t my rolls rise?

A: Make sure your yeast is fresh and the milk is warm (not hot). Chilly environments can slow the rise, so try placing the dough in a slightly warm (but turned-off) oven.

There's nothing quite like the smell of cinnamon rolls baking-especially when you can enjoy them fresh without loads of leftovers. These small batch cinnamon rolls are fluffy, comforting, and incredibly easy to make. Give them a try, and don't forget to leave a comment or rating to let us know how yours turned out!