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.

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

Description

🍞 Create bakery-quality cinnamon rolls from scratch with simple ingredients that will fill your home with incredible aroma
🧁 Enjoy soft, fluffy dough swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with creamy frosting for the perfect weekend treat

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

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

2-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.

3-Pour the liquid over the dry ingredients, add the egg, and mix until a soft dough forms for your cinnamon roll dough.

4-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.

5-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.

6-Cut the log into 10-12 rolls and place them in a greased 9- or 10-inch pan.

7-Cover the pan and let the rolls rise in a warm, draft-free area for 60-90 minutes until they double in size.

8-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.

9-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.

Notes

🌡️ Keep milk mixture warm (100-110°F) to activate yeast properly without killing it
🔪 Use dental floss or a sharp knife to cut rolls without squashing the spiral shape
⏰ Let rolls fully double in size before baking for the best rise and texture

Prep Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cinnamon roll
Calories: 380
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: Easy Cinnamon Rolls, Made from Scratch, Simple Ingredients, Homemade