Go Back
- 4 cups all-purpose flour - 1 cup whole milk, warmed - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened - 2 large eggs - 1 packet instant yeast - 1 teaspoon salt - 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for filling) - 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting) - 2-3 tablespoons milk (for frosting) - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting) To make the best homemade cinnamon rolls, you need simple, quality ingredients. Each item plays a key role in creating soft, fluffy rolls. Flour forms the base, giving structure. Use all-purpose flour for the right texture. Warm milk activates the yeast. This step is crucial for rising. Granulated sugar sweetens the dough. It also helps with browning. Softened butter adds richness and flavor. The eggs bind everything together and add moisture. Instant yeast makes rising easy and quick. Salt enhances flavor and strengthens the dough. Ground cinnamon gives that classic taste we love. Brown sugar adds a deep sweetness to the filling. For the frosting, powdered sugar provides sweetness. Milk thins it to the right consistency. Vanilla extract adds an inviting aroma and taste. - Mixing bowls - Rolling pin - Baking dish - Measuring cups and spoons - Whisk or wooden spoon Having the right tools makes the process smoother. Mixing bowls help combine ingredients easily. A rolling pin is essential for flattening the dough. A baking dish holds your rolls as they bake. Measuring cups and spoons ensure accuracy. This step is key for the perfect outcome. A whisk or wooden spoon will help mix your ingredients well. - Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) - Extra cinnamon for garnish - Fresh fruits like berries Toppings can elevate your cinnamon rolls. Chopped nuts add crunch and flavor. Extra cinnamon provides a beautiful touch and aroma. Fresh fruits like berries can offer a bright contrast. Feel free to get creative with these options. A little personal touch makes each batch unique. For the full recipe, check out the detailed guide. - Combine warm milk, sugar, and butter in a mixing bowl. - Add eggs and yeast, whisk until combined. - Gradually incorporate flour and salt, mixing until dough forms. Creating the dough is the first step to perfect cinnamon rolls. I like to heat the milk just enough to melt the butter. This warmth helps the yeast activate. When you add the eggs, make sure they are at room temperature. This will help the dough mix easily. - Knead dough on a floured surface for 7-10 minutes. - Let the dough rise for about 1 hour until doubled in size. Kneading is key for texture. I always knead the dough until it feels smooth and elastic. This builds the gluten, giving your rolls that perfect fluffy bite. After kneading, place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth. Let it sit in a warm area, which helps it rise. - Roll out the dough into a rectangle. - Brush with melted butter, sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon. - Roll tightly and slice into 1-inch rolls. Next, roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Be sure to brush melted butter evenly across the surface. Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon generously. Rolling the dough tightly is important. This helps keep the filling inside while baking. - Place rolls in a greased baking dish and cover. - Let rise for 30-45 minutes, then bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes. After shaping, place the rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover them with a cloth and let them rise again. This second rise makes your rolls even fluffier. When they are puffy, bake them until golden brown. The smell will fill your kitchen! - Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. - Drizzle frosting over warm rolls after baking. While the rolls bake, prepare the frosting. Combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a bowl. Stir until smooth. Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the frosting on top. The warmth of the rolls makes the frosting melt slightly, creating a dreamy glaze. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above. To get soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls, start with warm milk. The milk should feel warm to the touch but not hot. This helps activate the yeast. Knead your dough until it feels smooth and elastic. This step is key for a great texture. Once your rolls cool, store them in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them. This will help keep them fresh. To enjoy your rolls warm again, use a microwave. Heat them for about 15-20 seconds. Alternatively, warm them in an oven for a few minutes at 350°F. This will bring back the soft texture you love. {{image_2}} You can easily change the flavor of your cinnamon rolls. Here are two fun ideas: - Add raisins or cranberries for a fruity twist. These fruits give a sweet and tangy pop. - Substitute brown sugar with maple sugar for a different flavor. Maple adds a rich, warm taste. The icing can also be transformed to suit your taste. Try these options: - Use cream cheese frosting instead of a vanilla glaze. Cream cheese adds a rich and tangy flavor. - Add cocoa powder for a chocolate frosting option. This makes the rolls even more indulgent. Changing the shape of your cinnamon rolls can be fun! Here are some suggestions: - Try making cinnamon roll twists or braids. These shapes look fancy and are easy to make. - Experiment with different sizes, like mini rolls. Mini rolls are perfect for a quick snack or dessert. Feel free to get creative with your flavors and shapes. The options are endless! For the full recipe, don’t forget to check out the Heavenly Homemade Cinnamon Rolls. To store your cinnamon rolls in the fridge, place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to a week. If you want extra protection, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap first. This helps keep moisture in and prevents them from drying out. You can freeze both unbaked and baked rolls. For unbaked rolls, place them in a greased dish and cover with plastic wrap. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. If you freeze baked rolls, let them cool completely before wrapping. To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, warm them in the oven for that fresh-baked taste. To track how fresh your cinnamon rolls are, always check the date you made them. The best way to know if they are still good is to smell them. If they smell off or have an unusual look, it’s best to throw them out. Enjoy your rolls while they are fresh for the best taste! To make your dough rise faster, find a warm spot. Preheat your oven to 200°F for one minute. Turn it off, then place the dough inside. The gentle heat will help it rise quickly. You can also cover the bowl with a damp cloth. This will keep the dough warm and humid. Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it changes the rolls a bit. Whole wheat gives a nuttier taste and more fiber. However, it also makes the dough denser. If you want softer rolls, mix half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour. This keeps some lightness while adding health benefits. If your rolls don't rise, check a few things. First, make sure the yeast is fresh. Old yeast may not work well. Next, see if the dough was in a warm enough spot. Lastly, if it’s too cold, start over or give it more time. If it’s too hot, the yeast can die. Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance! After kneading, cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge overnight. When you are ready, take it out and let it rise. This slow rise adds great flavor. Just remember to let it warm up before rolling. Look for a nice golden-brown color on top. You can also tap the bottom of a roll. If it sounds hollow, it’s done. Another way is to check the internal temperature. It should be about 190°F. If you see these signs, your rolls are ready to enjoy! In this post, I shared how to make delicious cinnamon rolls from scratch. You learned the key ingredients you need and the best steps to follow. I also provided tips for flavor variations and how to store your rolls. With these easy instructions, you can enjoy fresh, soft rolls anytime. Baking can be fun, and you’ll impress everyone with your skills. Get started today, and treat your friends and family to a warm batch of homemade cinnamon rolls!

- Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Indulge in the sweet delight of the best homemade cinnamon rolls with our easy-to-follow recipe guide. You'll learn how to create soft, fluffy rolls filled with the perfect balance of cinnamon and sugar, topped with a dreamy frosting. With simple ingredients and clear steps, baking these gooey treats has never been easier. Click through to explore the full recipe and elevate your breakfast game!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup whole milk, warmed

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 large eggs

1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast

1 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for filling)

1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)

2-3 tablespoons milk (for frosting)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Instructions
 

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warmed milk, sugar, and softened butter. Mix well until the butter is melted.

    Add the eggs and instant yeast to the mixture and whisk until well combined.

      Gradually add 2 cups of flour and salt, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a dough starts to form.

        Add the remaining flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.

          Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 7-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.

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

              Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick on a floured surface.

                Brush the melted butter over the dough, and sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon evenly across the surface.

                  Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams to seal and slice it into 1-inch thick rolls.

                    Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them with a cloth, and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.

                      Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

                        While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting by mixing the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.

                          Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before drizzling the frosting on top.

                            Prep Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes | Servings: 12 rolls

                              - Presentation Tips: Serve warm on a decorative platter, drizzling extra frosting over the top. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a few pecans or walnuts for a crunchy touch!