Soft Cinnamon Rolls are fluffy, sweet, and filled with a delicious mixture of cinnamon, butter, and brown sugar. Finished with a smooth cream cheese frosting, these homemade rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat with a cup of coffee.
Although the dough needs time to rise, the preparation is simple and the result is worth the wait. The rolls come out of the oven soft, aromatic, and covered with a creamy frosting that melts slightly over the warm dough.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
These cinnamon rolls have a light and tender texture, with a sweet cinnamon filling in every layer. The dough can be prepared using basic ingredients, and the recipe does not require any complicated equipment.
You can also prepare the rolls in advance and bake them the next morning. This makes them an excellent choice for holidays, family breakfasts, and special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- ¾ cup warm milk
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 egg yolk
- ¼ cup melted unsalted butter
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Cinnamon Filling
- ½ cup softened unsalted butter
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 1½ tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Frosting
- 4 ounces softened cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons softened unsalted butter
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon milk
How to Make Soft Cinnamon Rolls
Pour the warm milk into a large bowl. Add the yeast and a teaspoon of the sugar. Stir gently and let the mixture rest for five to ten minutes, or until it becomes foamy.
Add the remaining sugar, egg, egg yolk, melted butter, and salt. Mix until combined. Gradually add the flour, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for eight to ten minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic. If it feels very sticky, add a small amount of flour, but avoid adding too much because this can make the rolls dry.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for approximately one hour. It should double in size.
Roll the dough into a large rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface. Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl, then sprinkle the mixture over the butter.
Starting from one of the longer sides, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut it into nine equal pieces and arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish.
Cover the dish and allow the rolls to rise for another 30 to 40 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350°F.
Bake the cinnamon rolls for 22 to 27 minutes, or until they are lightly golden on top. Avoid baking them for too long so they remain soft.
Preparing the Frosting
Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix until creamy. Spread the frosting over the cinnamon rolls while they are still slightly warm.
Storage Tips
Store the cinnamon rolls in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Before serving, warm each roll in the microwave for a few seconds to restore its soft texture.
These Soft Cinnamon Rolls are comforting, flavorful, and ideal for sharing. Their fluffy dough, rich cinnamon filling, and creamy frosting make every bite irresistible.
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Linda Carter is a writer specializing in recipes and practical home cooking. With extensive experience helping readers prepare flavorful and accessible meals, Linda shares easy-to-follow recipes, helpful cooking tips, and creative ideas on our platform. Her goal is to make cooking simpler and more enjoyable, inspiring readers to create delicious dishes for everyday meals and special occasions.