Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Who doesn’t love waking up to the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls? Soft, fluffy, and bursting with cinnamon sweetness, these homemade cinnamon rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon treat. Topped with rich cream cheese frosting, they are indulgent, comforting, and guaranteed to impress. This recipe is beginner-friendly and ensures bakery-quality rolls right in your own kitchen. From preparing the dough to layering the cinnamon filling and glazing with frosting, let’s dive into the magic of making these delectable treats.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including rising time)
• Bake Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 3 hours

Ingredients

     For the Dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 cup whole milk (warm, around 110°F)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

     For the Filling:

• ¾ cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (toasted, optional)

     For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp heavy cream (adjust for desired consistency)

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. This step ensures the yeast is activated and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough 2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. 3. Mix the ingredients together until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. 4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling 5. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside. 6. On a clean surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle approximately 16×12 inches. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously over the buttered surface. If desired, sprinkle chopped walnuts evenly over the filling.

Step 4: Roll and Slice 7. Starting from the long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. 8. Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the log into 12 equal pieces.

Step 5: Second Rise 9. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll for expansion. Cover and let rise for 30–40 minutes until puffy.

Step 6: Bake 10. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft.

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting 11. While the rolls bake, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. 12. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Beat until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.

Step 8: Frost and Serve 13. Allow the baked rolls to cool slightly before spreading the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Serve warm and enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the milk is warm but not hot; too much heat can kill the yeast.
• For softer rolls, don’t overbake; check them at 20 minutes.
• Customize the filling with raisins, chocolate chips, or pecans for variety.

These cinnamon rolls are the epitome of comfort food, perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a holiday morning or a rainy Sunday. Their soft, pillowy texture combined with the sweet cinnamon filling and luscious cream cheese frosting creates an unforgettable treat. Follow this recipe, and you’ll master the art of making cinnamon rolls that rival the best bakeries. Share them with loved ones or savor them all to yourself—either way, satisfaction is guaranteed. Try them today and make every bite a celebration of warmth and sweetness!