Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

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There’s something utterly comforting about a warm, gooey cinnamon roll straight out of the oven. The swirls of sweet cinnamon tucked inside a fluffy, buttery dough are the kind of treat that turns a slow morning into something special. Whether it’s a holiday brunch or just a cozy weekend, homemade cinnamon rolls never disappoint.

What makes this version truly stand out is the balance between richness and lightness. The dough is tender and pillowy, yet sturdy enough to hold in all that cinnamony-sugar filling without becoming soggy. And when topped with a creamy vanilla glaze that melts into the warm spirals? It’s bakery-style bliss from your own oven.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

These cinnamon rolls are made from scratch but don’t require any fancy equipment or advanced baking skills. They rise beautifully, bake evenly, and have a perfectly golden, slightly crisp edge with a tender interior. They’re sweet, but not overly so, which makes them ideal for adding that luscious icing on top without becoming cloying.

You can make them ahead and even freeze them, which is a major bonus if you’re entertaining. They also adapt beautifully to add-ins like raisins, chopped nuts, or even a swirl of Nutella if you’re feeling creative.

What Kind of Flour Should I Use for Cinnamon Rolls?

For the softest cinnamon rolls, all-purpose flour works just fine and is widely available. If you want to go a step further and get that professional texture, consider using bread flour. Bread flour gives the rolls just a little more chew and structure thanks to its higher protein content. That said, if all you have is all-purpose flour, you’ll still get dreamy results.

Ingredients for the Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

These ingredients come together to create a perfectly balanced dough, a warmly spiced filling, and a silky glaze to finish. Let’s break them down:

• All-purpose flour: Gives the dough its soft yet sturdy structure.
• Whole milk: Adds moisture and richness for that pillowy soft dough.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough just enough to complement the filling.
• Brown sugar: The key to a rich, caramel-like cinnamon filling.
• Butter: Both in the dough and filling, it brings richness and flavor.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help the dough rise.
• Instant yeast: Fast-acting yeast ensures a beautiful rise without needing a long proof.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice in the filling.
• Vanilla extract: Infuses the icing with a beautiful aroma.
• Powdered sugar: Forms the base of the creamy glaze.

How To Make the Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Make the Dough

Warm the milk slightly and combine it with sugar and yeast in a mixing bowl. Let it sit until foamy. Add in melted butter, eggs, salt, and flour. Mix until a soft dough forms, then knead until smooth. Cover and let it rise until doubled in size.

Step 2: Roll and Fill

Punch down the dough and roll it into a rectangle. Spread softened butter across the surface, then sprinkle a mix of brown sugar and cinnamon evenly. Roll the dough up tightly into a log and slice into even rolls.

Step 3: Second Rise

Place the rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover them with a clean towel and let rise again until puffy, about 30–45 minutes.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes or until the tops are golden and the centers are cooked through.

Step 5: Ice and Serve

While the rolls bake, mix powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a splash of milk until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls and serve immediately.

How to Store and Serve Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed warm, ideally within a few hours of baking. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, a few seconds in the microwave brings them right back to soft and gooey.

This recipe makes about 12 rolls, making it perfect for a brunch crowd, potluck, or special breakfast.

What to Serve With Homemade Cinnamon Rolls?

Fresh Fruit Salad

A light and juicy fruit salad helps balance the richness of the rolls.

Scrambled Eggs

Savory eggs pair perfectly with the sweet glaze and tender dough.

Crispy Bacon

That salty crunch next to a soft, sweet roll is pure magic.

Yogurt Parfait

Layered with granola and berries, it’s a refreshing contrast.

Hot Coffee or Espresso

Nothing goes better with cinnamon and sugar than a strong coffee.

Maple Sausages

The sweet-savory combo enhances the warmth of the cinnamon.

Chai Latte

The spices in chai echo the flavors in the rolls in the best way.

Whipped Cream Cheese Dip

A lightly tangy dip makes for an extra-decadent bite.

Want More Breakfast Ideas with a Twist?

If these homemade cinnamon rolls hit the spot, you might love trying these next:

• Gooey Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole for a bold weekend brunch.
• The Best Homemade Cinnamon Roll Icing Recipe if you want to master the perfect topping.
• Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls for a unique and nutty variation.
• Easy Banana Cream Pie Recipe to keep the sweet vibes going.
• Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls if you’re craving fruity swirls.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you stick with classic cinnamon or add your own twist like orange zest or cardamom?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Homemade cinnamon rolls are the kind of recipe that turns ordinary ingredients into something magical. With a little time and a lot of love, you get a sweet treat that makes your whole kitchen smell like comfort. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying one solo with a cup of coffee, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

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