Make soft, gooey cinnamon rolls at home using this simple, foolproof recipe. This guide breaks down the process for beginner bakers.
Author:cookingbyjade
Prep Time:30 min
Cook Time:20 min
Total Time:140 min
Yield:12 servings 1x
Category:Breakfast
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
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
1–2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, 1 teaspoon sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Add the melted butter, remaining 1/4 cup sugar, and egg to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
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.
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.
Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined into a paste.
Punch down the risen dough. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 12×18 inch rectangle.
Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a small border on one long edge.
Starting from the long edge opposite the border, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam closed.
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.
Cover the pan loosely and let the rolls rise again for 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) during this time.
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
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.
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.