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Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Close-up of a fluffy homemade cinnamon roll topped with creamy white glaze, showing swirls of cinnamon.

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Learn to make soft, gooey cinnamon rolls from scratch. This recipe is perfect for a weekend breakfast or special occasion, offering a rewarding baking experience for beginners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • For the Filling:
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • For the Frosting:
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 23 tablespoons milk

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Stir in granulated sugar, melted butter, salt, and beaten eggs. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  4. Punch down the dough. On a lightly floured surface, roll it into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
  5. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon for the filling. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border. Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture over the butter.
  6. Roll the dough tightly, starting from one long side. Pinch the seam to seal. Cut the roll into 12 equal slices.
  7. Place slices in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
  8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  9. While rolls bake, prepare the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until desired consistency is reached.
  10. Let the rolls cool slightly before spreading frosting over the warm cinnamon rolls.

Notes

  • Ensure your milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
  • For softer rolls, avoid over-baking.
  • You can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it. Let it come to room temperature before proceeding with the recipe.
  • For a richer frosting, use heavy cream instead of milk.

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