Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

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Warm, fluffy, and dripping with sweet vanilla glaze, homemade cinnamon rolls are the ultimate comfort treat. Whether you’re baking for a special holiday brunch or simply want to enjoy a cozy weekend morning, nothing beats the aroma of these spiraled beauties fresh out of the oven.

Each bite combines soft dough, gooey cinnamon-brown sugar filling, and a silky glaze that melts into every crevice. The best part? You don’t need to be an expert baker to make them. This recipe guides you step-by-step to cinnamon roll success—even if it’s your first time working with yeast dough.

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What Kind of Yeast Should I Use for Cinnamon Rolls?

You can use either active dry yeast or instant yeast. Instant yeast will help the dough rise a bit faster and can be mixed directly into the flour. Active dry yeast needs to be dissolved in warm milk first. Either way, make sure your yeast is fresh and hasn’t expired—good yeast equals fluffy rolls.

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Ingredients for the Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

All-Purpose Flour – This gives the dough structure while still keeping it tender.

Whole Milk – Warm milk activates the yeast and adds richness to the dough.

Granulated Sugar – Feeds the yeast and sweetens the dough.

Unsalted Butter – Used in the dough, the filling, and the glaze—it adds flavor and richness.

Large Eggs – Bind the dough and make it soft and pillowy.

Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.

Yeast – The magical ingredient that helps the dough rise.

Brown Sugar – Essential for the gooey cinnamon-sugar swirl inside.

Ground Cinnamon – The star of the show, giving these rolls their classic flavor.

Powdered Sugar – Used to create the creamy vanilla glaze.

Vanilla Extract – Adds warm, sweet depth to the glaze.

Cream Cheese (optional) – For a tangier, richer frosting if you want to level up your glaze.

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How To Make the Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Warm the milk until it’s about 110°F. Combine it with yeast and a bit of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. Then, mix in the eggs, melted butter, remaining sugar, and salt. Gradually add the flour until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Knead and Let It Rise

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.

Step 3: Make the Filling

Mix together brown sugar and cinnamon. Melt the butter separately. Once the dough has risen, roll it into a large rectangle (about 16×12 inches). Brush with melted butter and sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Step 4: Roll and Slice

Starting from the long edge, roll the dough into a log. Cut into 12 equal rolls using a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss for clean cuts.

Step 5: Second Rise

Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap or a towel and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 22–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 7: Glaze

While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk or cream (and cream cheese if using) until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over warm rolls right out of the oven.

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How to Serve and Store Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Serve these cinnamon rolls warm, ideally fresh from the oven with glaze gently melting into every swirl. Pair with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa for the ultimate morning treat.

To store, let the rolls cool completely. Cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds to restore their soft, gooey texture.

For longer storage, freeze unglazed rolls individually wrapped in plastic wrap. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat before glazing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my cinnamon rolls extra soft?

Use whole milk and don’t over-flour the dough. Letting the dough rise until doubled and not rushing the process helps too.

Can I make cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the rolls and place them in the baking pan, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise slightly before baking.

Why are my cinnamon rolls dry?

They may be overbaked or have too much flour. Bake just until golden, and keep the dough soft.

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose?

Yes, but it will make the rolls slightly chewier. All-purpose flour gives a softer bite, which is preferred for cinnamon rolls.

What’s the best way to reheat cinnamon rolls?

A quick zap in the microwave (15–20 seconds) or a few minutes in a low oven with foil on top helps revive the texture.

Can I skip the second rise?

It’s not recommended. The second rise is what makes the rolls fluffy and airy.

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Want More Sweet Breakfast Ideas?

If you love these homemade cinnamon rolls, you’ll probably enjoy these other breakfast and brunch favorites:

• Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups – for a hand-held twist on the classic.
• Blueberry Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bake – light and fruity with a protein punch.
• Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups – perfect if you like your mornings creamy and tart.
• Old-Fashioned Egg Custard Pie – a silky dessert that works beautifully for brunch too.
• Mini Lemon Bundt Cakes – bright and zesty single-serve delights.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 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 add cream cheese to the glaze or stick with classic vanilla? Did you sneak in some pecans or raisins?

I love seeing your personal twists on these cozy bakes. Got questions? Drop them below—let’s help each other make the perfect roll.

Craving more cozy recipes? Follow me on Pinterest at Life with Jam for daily kitchen inspiration!

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