Name: Irresistibly Soft Ultimate Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 145 min
Ingredients: ¾ cup Milk (warmed to 115°F); 2 ¼ teaspoons Yeast (quick-rise or active dry); ¼ cup Granulated Sugar (or coconut sugar); 4 tablespoons Salted Butter (melted and cooled); 1 large Egg; 1 large Egg Yolk; 3 cups Bread Flour (plus more as needed); ¾ teaspoon Kosher Salt (or table salt); Extra-virgin Olive Oil (for greasing the bowl); 4 tablespoons Softened Butter; ⅔ cup Dark Brown Sugar (packed); 1 ½ tablespoons Ground Cinnamon; 4 oz Cream Cheese (softened); ¾ cup Powdered Sugar; 3 tablespoons Salted Butter (softened); ½ teaspoon Vanilla Extract

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When the comforting scent of cinnamon fills the air, it’s hard to resist wandering into the kitchen for a taste of something warm and sweet. I discovered the secret to the ultimate homemade cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting during a leisurely Sunday morning, when I craved a cozy breakfast that would embrace me like a hug. These rolls are not just a treat for the taste buds; they’re a celebration of comfort food at its finest. Soft, fluffy, and rich with buttery cinnamon goodness, each bite is crowned with a luscious cream cheese frosting that makes mornings feel extra special.

The beauty of these cinnamon rolls lies not just in their taste, but in their versatility. Whether you opt for dark brown sugar or mix in a sprinkle of chocolate chips, there’s room to get creative in your own kitchen. Perfect for brunch gatherings or a sweet family breakfast, this recipe turns an ordinary day into a delightful occasion. So, let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s bound to bring smiles to your table!

Why Are Ultimate Homemade Cinnamon Rolls a Must-Try?

Indulgent Flavor: The combination of rich cinnamon filling and creamy frosting creates an irresistible taste sensation that’s hard to match.

Satisfying Texture: Expect fluffy, pillowy rolls that melt in your mouth – a warm embrace for all your senses.

Versatile Options: Customize with unique fillings like nuts or chocolate chips for added flair; the possibilities are endless!

Perfect for Any Occasion: Elevate brunches or holiday dinners with a treat that never fails to impress your guests. For a different breakfast delight, check out our delicious Muffins Cream Cheese.

Time-Saving Convenience: This easy recipe allows you to create bakery-quality cinnamon rolls at home without hassle!

Ultimate Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients

Unlock the secrets of fluffy, sweet perfection!

For the Dough
• Milk (¾ cup, warmed to 115°F) – Activates yeast for fluffy dough; warm as specified for best results.
• Yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons quick-rise or active dry) – The leavening agent ensuring your rolls are airy; quick-rise yeast speeds up the process.
• Granulated Sugar (¼ cup) – Adds sweetness and supports yeast activation; consider coconut sugar for a healthier option.
• Salted Butter (4 tablespoons, melted and cooled) – Richens the dough; opt for unsalted butter if you want to control the saltiness.
• Egg (1 large) and Egg Yolk (1 large) – Provide moisture and structure; replace with a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
• Bread Flour (3 cups, plus more as needed) – The foundation for chewiness and fluff; all-purpose flour can work too, but may vary in texture.
• Kosher Salt (¾ teaspoon) – Enhances the overall flavor; use table salt but remember to reduce the amount.
• Extra-virgin Olive Oil – For greasing the bowl; any mild oil will do.

For the Filling
• Softened Butter (4 tablespoons) – Adds an extra layer of richness to the filling.
• Dark Brown Sugar (⅔ cup, packed) – Deepens the flavor of the filling; light brown sugar is a fine substitute.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 ½ tablespoons) – Delivers the classic cinnamon flavor that makes these rolls irresistible.

For the Frosting
• Cream Cheese (4 oz, softened) – The star of the frosting, creating a luscious topping; mascarpone can be a delightful alternative.
• Powdered Sugar (¾ cup) – Sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth texture.
• Salted Butter (3 tablespoons, softened) – Enhances the creaminess; unsalted lets you control the salt level.
• Vanilla Extract (½ teaspoon) – Boosts the frosting flavor; feel free to swap for almond extract for a unique twist.

How to Make Ultimate Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Warm Milk: Heat the milk in a small pot until it reaches 115°F; this is the perfect temperature to activate the yeast.
Activate Yeast: In a bowl, combine the warmed milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy; this shows your yeast is alive and kicking!
Mix Ingredients: In a stand mixer bowl, add the foamy yeast mixture with melted butter, egg, and yolk. Mix on low until well combined.
Knead Dough: Slowly incorporate the bread flour and kosher salt, kneading the mixture for 8-10 minutes. Your dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
First Rise: Transfer your dough into a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1-1½ hours.
Prepare Filling: Roll the dough into a large rectangle, spread softened butter evenly, and sprinkle the dark brown sugar mixed with ground cinnamon over the surface.
Roll and Slice Dough: Gently roll the dough tightly from one end to the other, cut it into 9 equal slices with a sharp knife. Place the slices in a lined baking pan.
Second Rise: Cover the rolls and let them puff up for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, while preheating your oven to 350°F.
Bake: Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are a beautiful golden color and your kitchen smells heavenly.
Make Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Serve: Spread the luscious cream cheese frosting onto the warm rolls, then gather your loved ones to enjoy each melt-in-your-mouth bite!

Optional: Drizzle with extra frosting for a sweeter bite!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Ultimate Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Room Temperature: Keep leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain softness and flavor.

Fridge: If you need a bit more time, store them in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Freezer: Freeze rolls after they’ve cooled completely, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and a layer of aluminum foil, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Pop the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Drizzle with a little extra cream cheese frosting for a delightful touch when serving!

What to Serve with Ultimate Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Indulging in warm, fluffy cinnamon rolls is just the beginning; let’s craft a complete breakfast experience that tantalizes the taste buds!

Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, vibrant fruits cut through the sweetness of the rolls and add a refreshing, juicy contrast. Choose seasonal fruits for an extra burst of flavor.
Savory Breakfast Sausages: The rich, savory profile of sausages complements the sweet rolls beautifully, providing a balanced meal that satisfies all cravings.
Maple-Infused Coffee: A warm cup of coffee with a hint of maple enhances the cinnamon flavor, creating a comforting symphony for your senses.
Creamy Scrambled Eggs: Soft, fluffy eggs add a delightful creaminess that pairs perfectly with the warm, sweet rolls, making every bite a joy.
Greek Yogurt Parfaits: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and fruit for a light and refreshing side that balances the indulgence of the rolls.
Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea, like chamomile or peppermint, rounds out the meal with a calming finish, inviting relaxation after a delicious breakfast.
Chocolate Chip Pancakes: For those who crave even more sweetness, fluffy pancakes filled with chocolate chips create a delightful counterpart to the rolls.
Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of freshly whipped cream served alongside can elevate both the cinnamon rolls and any fruit dish for a luxurious touch.
Mini Muffins: Pairing with sweet mini muffins filled with berries or nuts provides variety and an extra touch of homemade goodness to your breakfast spread.
Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl with fresh greens and fruits adds a nutritious touch, balancing the sweetness while offering vibrant colors to the table.

Expert Tips for Ultimate Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Temperature Matters: Ensure your milk is warmed to exactly 115°F. Too hot can kill the yeast, causing your rolls to be dense.
Foamy Yeast: Don’t skip the activation step; letting the yeast mixture sit until foamy ensures your dough rises beautifully.
Knead Correctly: Knead your dough for 8-10 minutes until it’s soft and slightly sticky – this develops the gluten for that perfect texture.
Second Rise is Key: Allow the rolls ample time to puff during the second rise; this step significantly improves their fluffiness.
Cutting Techniques: Use dental floss or a serrated knife for even slices. A clean cut helps each roll maintain its shape during baking.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts to your filling, but don’t overload as it may affect the integrity of your ultimate homemade cinnamon rolls.

Cinnamon Roll Variations

Embrace your inner chef and let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on homemade cinnamon rolls!

Dairy-Free: Replace the milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free butter for a vegan-friendly version.
Nutty Goodness: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for that satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips or cocoa powder to the filling for an indulgent chocolate twist that will have everyone swooning.
Maple Flavors: Substitute the dark brown sugar in the filling with maple syrup for a deliciously sweet, maple-infused taste.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of cardamom to the filling for a warm spice surprise that elevates the classic cinnamon flavor.
Fruity Delight: Incorporate fresh or dried fruits, like chopped apples or raisins, into the filling to add natural sweetness and chewy texture.
Citrus Zing: Grate some orange zest into the cream cheese frosting for a refreshing burst of citrus that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon.
Heat It Up: For a kick, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or chili powder within the cinnamon-sugar mix for a delightful spicy contrast.

These variations are not just about altering a recipe; they’re an invitation to explore new flavors in our kitchen and make it your own!

Make Ahead Options

These Ultimate Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the rolls up to the second rise step (up to 24 hours in advance) by rolling and cutting them, then covering them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerating. This helps the dough maintain its rich flavor and soft texture. When you’re ready to bake, simply take them out, let them puff for 30 minutes at room temperature, preheat your oven to 350°F, and then bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and fluffy. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy delicious, freshly baked cinnamon rolls with minimal effort on busy mornings!

Ultimate Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for my cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, look for fresh yeast for optimal rise; it should be within the expiration date. For milk, any type will do, but be sure it’s whole or 2% for richer flavor. When selecting butter, choose unsalted for control over the saltiness; this keeps your rolls perfectly balanced!

How should I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Very simply! Keep your leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer longer storage, wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate them for up to one week. Just reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to bring back that fresh-from-the-oven feel!

Can I freeze cinnamon rolls, and if so, how?
You can! Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool completely after baking. Then, individually wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, followed by an extra layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their fluffiness.

What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
No worries, this can happen! If your dough hasn’t risen after the recommended time, check if your yeast was activated properly by ensuring it was foamy before mixing. Temperature matters greatly; your milk should be warmed to 115°F, not too hot or cold. If it’s too warm, your yeast may die. You can also create a warmer environment by placing your dough in a turned-off oven with just the light on—it can work wonders!

Are there dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily substitute ingredients. For example, use a flax egg instead of chicken eggs for a vegan option, and opt for gluten-free flour to cater to those avoiding gluten. Always check labels for pre-packaged ingredients like cream cheese for any allergens such as dairy. If your pets are around, be sure to keep these sweet rolls away, as ingredients like chocolate are harmful to them!

What types of variations can I make with my cinnamon rolls?
The more the merrier! You can customize your filling by adding nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch, or even chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Consider swapping out dark brown sugar for maple syrup or light brown sugar for a different flavor profile. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different frostings, such as maple glaze or a simple sugar glaze, to keep things interesting during your next baking adventure!