Description
Soft, fluffy, and filled with a sweet cinnamon-sugar swirl, these homemade cinnamon rolls are the perfect indulgent treat. Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, they’re a classic favorite for breakfast, brunch, or any time you’re craving comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
For the dough:
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4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/3 cup granulated sugar
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1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) Rapid Rise Instant Yeast
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 1/2 cups milk
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6 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1 large egg, at room temperature
For the cinnamon sugar filling:
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2/3 cup light brown sugar
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1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
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Pinch of salt
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
For the cream cheese frosting:
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4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
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3 cups powdered sugar
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2–3 tablespoons milk
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
Instructions
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In a small saucepan, heat milk and butter together until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm (not hot). Let it cool slightly.
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In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add the warm milk mixture and stir to combine.
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Add the egg and mix well, then gradually add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
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Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 6–8 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
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While the dough rises, prepare the filling by mixing the brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
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Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it into a 16×12 inch rectangle on a floured surface.
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Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over it.
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Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the long edge. Slice into 12 even rolls.
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Place rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30–45 minutes, until puffy.
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
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While the rolls are baking, make the frosting. Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and salt. Mix until creamy and fluffy.
- Spread the frosting over the warm rolls before serving.
Notes
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For overnight rolls, prepare up to step 9, cover, and refrigerate. Let them come to room temperature and rise before baking the next morning.
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You can substitute whole milk with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-alternative version.
- Add chopped nuts or raisins inside the filling if desired.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American