Cinnamon Rolls Recipe Easy From Scratch With Simple Steps

Name: Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 40 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more as needed; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup whole milk; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast; 1 large egg, room temperature; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 1/3 cup packed light or dark brown sugar; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 4 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2/3 cup confectioners’ sugar; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

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Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

If you’re searching for a foolproof cinnamon rolls recipe that’s perfect for home bakers, this one stands out for its simplicity and delicious results. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to whip up these fluffy treats from scratch, using straightforward ingredients that make the process enjoyable and rewarding. Whether you’re a busy parent squeezing in baking on weekends or a student looking for a comforting treat, this recipe delivers warm, gooey cinnamon rolls that bring everyone to the table.

One of the best parts of this cinnamon rolls recipe is its ease of preparation, letting even beginners turn out soft and tasty rolls without much hassle. It highlights health benefits too, like the natural goodness from cinnamon that adds a warm spice linked to everyday wellness. Plus, it’s versatile enough to tweak for different needs, such as vegan swaps or lighter options, making it a hit for food enthusiasts of all kinds.

The distinctive flavor comes from a perfect mix of cinnamon, brown sugar, and a touch of vanilla, creating that irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen. Based on the provided details, this recipe uses high-quality ingredients for a richer taste, and it yields about 10-12 rolls in roughly 2 hours and 5 minutes total time. If you love baking, this cinnamon rolls recipe will quickly become a favorite for its balance of simplicity and standout taste.

It takes only about 1 hour and 40 minutes for preparation, including rising time, so you can enjoy fresh rolls without waiting all day.
Optional tweaks like using whole grain flours can add nutritional value, appealing to diet-conscious readers.
With tips from the summary, such as keeping the milk mixture at the right temperature, you’ll get consistent results every time.

This approach makes the cinnamon rolls recipe adaptable for travels or quick family meals, inspiring newlyweds and seniors to try it out. For more breakfast ideas, check out our blueberry cottage cheese breakfast bake for a fresh twist on morning favorites.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
2. Essential Ingredients for Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Cinnamon Rolls Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
5. Mastering Cinnamon Rolls Recipe: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Cinnamon Rolls Recipe: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
8. Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Essential Ingredients for Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a great cinnamon rolls recipe, and this list pulls from the provided details for exact measurements. Below, you’ll find everything needed for the dough, filling, and icing, all listed clearly to help you shop and measure accurately. This setup ensures your homemade cinnamon rolls turn out soft and full of flavor every time.

Dough Ingredients

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more as needed
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup whole milk
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (equivalent to 1 packet)
1 large egg, room temperature

Filling Ingredients

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1/3 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Cream Cheese Icing Ingredients

4 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2/3 cup confectioners’ sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

These ingredients form the base of your easy cinnamon rolls made from scratch, keeping things simple yet effective. For special dietary options, you can swap in plant-based milk or gluten-free flour blends to fit vegan or gluten-free needs, as mentioned in the recipe tips.

How to Prepare the Perfect Cinnamon Rolls Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own homemade cinnamon rolls, using the exact preparation from the summary for the best results. This easy cinnamon rolls recipe breaks down the process into simple stages, making it accessible for beginners and experienced bakers alike. With a total time of about 2 hours and 5 minutes, you’ll have fresh rolls ready to enjoy.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt to start your cinnamon rolls recipe.

Warm the milk and butter until the butter melts and the mixture reaches about 110°F (43°C), then whisk in the yeast until it’s fully dissolved.
Pour the liquid over the dry ingredients, add the egg, and mix until a soft dough forms for your cinnamon roll dough.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 3-5 minutes until it’s smooth, then place it in a greased bowl, cover loosely, and let it rest for 10 minutes.

Roll the dough out to a 14 by 8 inch rectangle, spread the softened butter evenly over the surface, mix the cinnamon and brown sugar together, and sprinkle it over the buttered dough. Roll the dough into a 14-inch log.
Cut the log into 10-12 rolls and place them in a greased 9- or 10-inch pan.
Cover the pan and let the rolls rise in a warm, draft-free area for 60-90 minutes until they double in size.

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the rolls for 24-27 minutes until lightly browned, tenting with foil if the tops brown too quickly.
To make the icing, beat the cream cheese until smooth, add the butter, then the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract until well combined, and spread it over the warm rolls before serving.

These steps include adaptations for dietary preferences, like using plant-based substitutes for vegan options. For more baking inspiration, explore our sweet Alabama pecan bread recipe for another delightful treat. Remember, tips like using a sharp knife to cut the rolls help avoid squashing the dough.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Customizing your cinnamon rolls recipe can make it fit various lifestyles, drawing from the provided details for smart swaps. Whether you’re aiming for vegan cinnamon rolls or a lighter version, these changes keep the recipe simple and tasty. This section builds on the original ingredients to offer flexibility without losing that homemade charm.

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

Replace the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan option in your cinnamon rolls recipe.
Use plant-based butter and dairy-free milk to keep the rolls fully vegan and moist.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Add pumpkin puree to the dough for extra moisture and a seasonal twist in your easy cinnamon rolls.
Swap cinnamon with nutmeg for a fresh variation in the filling of your homemade cinnamon rolls.
Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a natural sweetener that enhances the flavor profile.

These adjustments ensure your cinnamon rolls recipe remains versatile for busy parents or diet-conscious individuals, maintaining the core taste while adapting to seasonal ingredients.

Mastering Cinnamon Rolls Recipe: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basics of this cinnamon rolls recipe, try these advanced tips to elevate your baking game. From pro techniques to fun flavor twists, these ideas make your homemade cinnamon rolls even more exciting for food enthusiasts. Always measure flour accurately to avoid dense rolls, as noted in the tips section.

Use a stand mixer with a dough hook for even kneading and a consistent texture in your cinnamon roll dough.

Add cardamom to the dough for a spiced variation that pairs well with the cinnamon in this recipe.
Glaze the rolls with apricot jam before frosting for a shiny finish and extra flavor.
Prepare the dough ahead and refrigerate it overnight for fresh rolls in the morning, saving time for working professionals.

For more ideas, experiment with chopped nuts in the filling to add texture, turning your easy cinnamon rolls into a decadent treat.

How to Store Cinnamon Rolls Recipe: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your cinnamon rolls recipe tasting fresh, whether you’re saving leftovers or prepping ahead. Follow these methods to maintain that soft, gooey texture everyone loves. From the provided details, you can freeze the dough at different stages for convenience.

Storage Method	Duration	Tips
Refrigeration	Up to 3-4 days	Use an airtight container to keep rolls soft and moist.
Freezing	Up to 2 months	Wrap rolls tightly before freezing, and thaw overnight for best results.
Reheating	N/A	Warm in the oven covered with foil to avoid drying out.

This helps with meal prep, so baking enthusiasts can enjoy cinnamon rolls throughout the week.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

How long does it take to make cinnamon rolls from start to finish?

Making cinnamon rolls typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, which includes mixing the dough, letting it rise, assembling the rolls, a second rise, and baking. This recipe requires one rise lasting around 60 to 90 minutes, plus about 20-25 minutes baking time. Preparing the frosting adds another 10 minutes. Planning ahead or making the dough the night before can help manage this time more effectively.

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast in cinnamon roll dough?

Yes, active dry yeast can replace instant yeast in equal amounts (1:1). However, active dry yeast needs to be dissolved in warm water before using, and the dough may take slightly longer to rise. Ensure water temperature is about 105-110°F (40-43°C) to activate the yeast properly without killing it.

What causes cinnamon rolls to turn out dense instead of soft and fluffy?

Dense cinnamon rolls often result from under-proofing the dough or adding too much flour. It’s important to let the dough rise until doubled in size, which usually takes 60-90 minutes. Overworking or overheating the dough can also affect texture. Use the recommended flour type, usually all-purpose flour, and measure it correctly by spooning and leveling it rather than scooping.

Can I freeze cinnamon roll dough or baked rolls for later?

Yes, cinnamon roll dough can be frozen at two stages: after rolling and cutting but before the second rise, or after baking. For dough, wrap tightly and freeze up to a month; thaw overnight in the fridge and then let rise before baking. Baked rolls freeze well too—wrap them securely and reheat in the oven to restore freshness.

What are good alternatives for milk in cinnamon roll recipes?

Whole milk or buttermilk is preferred for flavor and texture, but you can substitute with nondairy milks like almond, oat, or soy milk. Avoid nonfat milk since it can make dough dry. Lower-fat milk works if that’s all you have on hand, but richness in milk helps create tender, soft rolls. Adjust slightly if using unsweetened or flavored nondairy milk to balance sweetness.

Easy Cinnamon Rolls Made from Scratch with Simple Ingredients