Introduction
Imagine waking up on a cozy weekend morning, the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. Soft, fluffy dough swirled with buttery cinnamon-sugar tops off a comforting treat, and let’s not forget the creamy glaze drizzling down each roll. This saga of indulgence can be your reality with this foolproof homemade cinnamon rolls recipe, perfect for holidays, brunches, or simply those cozy mornings when you crave a little sweetness. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: it’s easy to follow and can even be made ahead of time for next-day baking.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Difficulty: Moderate
Ingredients
For the Dough:
– 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
– 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ⅓ cup melted butter
– 2 large eggs
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– ½ tsp salt
For the Filling:
– ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
– 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
– ¼ cup melted butter
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 4 oz cream cheese, softened
– ¼ cup butter, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– ½ tsp vanilla extract
– 1–2 tbsp milk (for desired consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Add melted butter, eggs, and salt. Mix well. Gradually add flour and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Roll dough out into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches). Spread melted butter, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
Step 5: Roll tightly from the long edge and slice into 12 even rolls.
Step 6: Arrange rolls in a greased 9×13-inch pan, cover, and let rise again for 30 minutes.
Step 7: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
Step 8: Mix frosting ingredients until smooth, then spread over warm rolls.
Tips
For an extra touch, consider adding chopped nuts or raisins to the filling. Or, allow the frosted rolls to sit for a few moments before serving; the glaze will soak in a bit, creating an even more indulgent experience. Happy baking!