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+ servings
Cinnamon rolls

Cinnamon Rolls

Soft, fluffy homemade cinnamon rolls with a buttery brown sugar filling and creamy tangy frosting. They’re warm, gooey, and perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 26 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 29 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 11

Ingredients
  

For the dough:

  • 4 1/2 cups bread flour
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon fine salt
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large egg room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cinnamon filling:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon heavy cream

For the cream cheese frosting:

  • 4 ounces cream cheese room temperature
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter room temperature
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl or stand mixer, mix 2 cups of the flour with the sugar, yeast, and salt.
  • Warm the milk and butter until the butter is mostly melted and the mixture feels just warm, not hot. Stir in the vanilla, then add it to the dry ingredients along with the egg.
  • Beat the mixture until combined, then add the remaining flour gradually until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
  • In a separate bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and cream into a spreadable paste.
  • Roll the dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface, then spread the filling evenly over the top.
  • Starting from the long edge, roll the dough into a tight log and pinch the seam closed. Slice into 12 even rolls and place them in a parchment-lined 9 x 13-inch pan.
  • Cover the pan and let the rolls rise again until puffy, about 45 to 60 minutes.
  • Bake at 350°F until golden brown, about 25 to 30 minutes. Let them cool slightly before frosting.
  • For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth, then mix in the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and salt until fluffy.
  • Spread the frosting over the warm rolls and serve right away.

Notes

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer storage.
For a make-ahead version, shape the rolls, cover the pan, and refrigerate overnight before baking.
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