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Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls From Scratch

Three gooey easy homemade cinnamon rolls topped with thick white frosting, one has a bite taken out.

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Make soft, gooey cinnamon rolls at home using this simple, foolproof recipe. This guide breaks down the process for beginner bakers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 105-115°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar plus 1 teaspoon for yeast
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • For the Filling:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 12 tablespoons milk

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, 1 teaspoon sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add the melted butter, remaining 1/4 cup sugar, and egg to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
  3. Gradually add the flour and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined into a paste.
  6. Punch down the risen dough. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 12×18 inch rectangle.
  7. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a small border on one long edge.
  8. Starting from the long edge opposite the border, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam closed.
  9. Cut the log into 12 equal rolls, about 1.5 inches thick. Place the rolls cut-side up in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
  10. Cover the pan loosely and let the rolls rise again for 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) during this time.
  11. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
  12. While the rolls bake, make the frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar and vanilla. Add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach a spreadable consistency.
  13. Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls. Serve warm.

Notes

  • For extra soft gooey cinnamon rolls, cover the pan with foil for the first 10 minutes of baking, then remove the foil to brown the tops.
  • If your kitchen is cool, place the covered dough bowl inside your oven with just the light on to create a warm proofing spot.

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