Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the comforting smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the house. This Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, delivering soft, fluffy rolls packed with rich cinnamon flavor and topped with a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth cream cheese icing. Whether you’re preparing them for a weekend breakfast, a special brunch, or a holiday treat, these cinnamon rolls are guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between a sweet, tender dough and a luscious, spiced filling. The secret lies in the careful combination of ingredients and precise techniques that result in rolls that are both airy and indulgent. Plus, the cream cheese icing adds a delightful tanginess that complements the warm cinnamon filling beautifully. It’s a straightforward recipe that yields bakery-quality results right in your own kitchen!

Ingredients Needed for Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Before you begin, gather all the necessary ingredients for this delicious recipe. Each component plays a crucial role in ensuring the best flavor and texture.

For the Dough:

• 4-5 cups (480g-600g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled – Provides structure to the dough.
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in yeast activation.
• 2 & ¼ teaspoons (1 package) instant yeast – Helps the dough rise.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• ¾ cup (180mL) water – Adds moisture to the dough.
• ½ cup (120mL) whole milk – Contributes to a soft texture.
• ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, cut into 4 slices – Adds richness and flavor.
• 1 large egg, at room temperature – Provides structure and moisture.

For the Filling:

• 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, very soft – Ensures a rich, buttery filling.
• ¾ cup (150g) packed brown sugar (light or dark) – Adds sweetness and a caramel-like flavor.
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon – The star ingredient for a classic cinnamon roll taste.

For the Cream Cheese Icing:

• 4 ounces (115g) block cream cheese, room temperature – Provides a creamy, tangy base.
• 5 tablespoons (70g) unsalted butter, room temperature – Adds smoothness and flavor.
• 1 & ½ cups (195g) powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the icing.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Adds a lovely aroma and flavor depth.

this RECIPE

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium microwave-safe bowl or saucepan
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon
• Rolling pin
• Serrated knife or unflavored dental floss
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Electric mixer or hand whisk

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together and set aside.

In a separate microwave-safe bowl or saucepan, combine the water, whole milk, and butter slices. Heat the mixture in 10-second increments in the microwave (or over low heat on the stove) until the butter has just melted and the mixture is warm but not hot.

Whisk the room-temperature egg into the warm liquid mixture until well combined. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients in the large mixing bowl. Stir with a wooden spoon until you achieve a thick, sticky dough.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Gradually add another cup of flour to the dough mixture. Mix until the dough starts to come together into a ball. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface or keep it in the bowl if using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment. Knead the dough, adding more flour as needed, until it becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch. If you press your finger into the dough, it should spring back.

Cover the dough and let it rest for about 20 minutes. This resting period helps to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out later.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Once rested, turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a 14×10 inch rectangle. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but try to keep the edges as even as possible.

Step 4: Add the Filling

Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle the brown sugar on top, spreading it out with your hands to create an even layer. Finally, sprinkle the ground cinnamon evenly over the sugar.

Step 5: Form the Cinnamon Rolls

Starting from the longer side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Trim about ½ an inch off each end of the log for more uniform rolls (optional). Use a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the log into 12 even pieces.

Step 6: Second Rise

Arrange the rolls, cut side up, in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover the dish and let the rolls rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes or until doubled in size.

Step 7: Bake the Cinnamon Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly while you prepare the icing.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Icing

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer or a wooden spoon to mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 9: Ice the Cinnamon Rolls

While the cinnamon rolls are still warm, spread the cream cheese icing generously over the top. The warmth will cause the icing to melt slightly, creating a delicious, gooey finish.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls Every Time

• Check Your Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh and active to help the dough rise properly.
• Temperature Matters: Use warm water and milk (not hot) to activate the yeast without killing it.
• Don’t Over-knead: Knead the dough just until it becomes smooth and elastic; over-kneading can make it tough.
• Let Them Rise Fully: Give your dough enough time to rise; this is crucial for soft and fluffy rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Cinnamon Rolls

• Skipping the Resting Time: Allow the dough to rest so it is easier to roll out without shrinking back.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Not Covering the Dough: Keep the dough covered to prevent it from drying out during the rise.

Variations and Recipe Swaps

• Try Different Fillings: Swap out the cinnamon-sugar filling for chocolate spread, jam, or even a mixture of nuts and dried fruits.
• Alternate Icing Options: Use a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk if you prefer a different topping.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve your homemade cinnamon rolls warm, straight from the oven, with extra cream cheese icing on the side for drizzling. Garnish with a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch, or sprinkle with crushed nuts for added texture and flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Cinnamon Rolls

• Storing: Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the rolls in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds until warm.

FAQs About Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

• Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, prepare the dough and let it rise. Then, refrigerate it overnight. The next day, let it come to room temperature before rolling out.
• Can I freeze cinnamon rolls? Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked rolls after cutting them. When ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before proceeding with the baking steps.
• What if I don’t have a stand mixer? You can knead the dough by hand. It may take a bit longer, but the results will be just as good.

Conclusion

There you have it – a simple, yet delicious recipe for homemade cinnamon rolls that are sure to become a family favorite! Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply because you crave something sweet, this recipe is a winner every time. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures in the comments below and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!

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