Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

There are few things more comforting than the warm aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls drifting through the kitchen. Whether it’s a lazy weekend morning, a holiday brunch with loved ones, or simply a well-deserved treat at the end of a long day, homemade cinnamon rolls turn ordinary moments into something truly special. Soft, fluffy dough rolled with a sweet cinnamon filling and finished with a smooth cream cheese icing creates a bakery-worthy dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

This recipe is inspired by the nostalgic joy of gathering around the table with family, eagerly waiting for the first bite while the icing slowly melts over the golden swirls. For many households, cinnamon rolls are a tradition—baked on special Sundays, shared with neighbors, or reserved for birthdays and celebrations. Today, you can bring that same tradition into your home with this easy-to-follow recipe that guarantees incredible results every time.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying homemade cinnamon rolls for the first time, this guide will walk you through each step with expert tips to ensure success. Let’s get baking.

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Why You’ll Love These Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

If you’ve only ever enjoyed store-bought cinnamon rolls, be prepared to be amazed. These are:

• Soft and pillowy from the rich, buttery dough

• Perfectly sweet with a balanced cinnamon swirl and creamy frosting

• Make-ahead friendly, ideal for holidays or brunch parties

• Comforting and nostalgic, great for warming up any season

There’s something irresistibly satisfying about pulling apart a freshly baked cinnamon roll and enjoying the gooey center bite. This recipe guarantees that every roll, including the center, stays moist, tender, and absolutely delicious.

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Ingredients

For the Dough

• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)

• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)

• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon Filling

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Icing

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1–2 tablespoons milk (to thin if needed)

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Directions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, active dry yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Add eggs and softened butter. Mix until combined.

3. Add salt and gradually mix in flour. Stir until the dough forms.

4. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 6–8 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise for 1–1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.

2. Make the Filling

1. In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until a spreadable paste forms.

3. Assemble the Cinnamon Rolls

1. Punch down the risen dough and transfer to a lightly floured surface.

2. Roll into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches.

3. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.

4. Starting from the long side, roll into a tight log.

5. Slice into 12 evenly sized rolls.

6. Place rolls in a greased baking dish, spaced slightly apart.

7. Cover with plastic wrap or a towel and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.

4. Bake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Bake rolls for 22–28 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

5. Make the Cream Cheese Icing

1. Beat cream cheese and butter until creamy.

2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until smooth.

3. Add milk as needed to reach desired consistency.

6. Serve

Spread icing over warm rolls and enjoy immediately.

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Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls Every Time

Use the Right Temperature Milk

Milk that is too hot will kill the yeast, and milk that is too cool won’t activate it. Aim for warm bathwater temperature (105–110°F).

Don’t Overbake

For soft, gooey rolls, remove them when they are just turning golden brown. Overbaking leads to dry pastries.

Thickness Matters

Rolling the dough too thin creates tough rolls. A slightly thicker dough ensures softness.

Let Them Rise Properly

Rushing the rise process results in dense rolls. Give the dough time to double, especially in cooler kitchens.

Ice While Warm

The icing melts slightly, seeping into the rolls for extra moisture and sweetness.

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Make-Ahead Instructions

Homemade cinnamon rolls are fantastic for prepping in advance, especially for holiday mornings.

Option 1: Overnight Rolls

• Assemble rolls completely and place in the baking dish.

• Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight.

• Remove from the refrigerator and let rise for 1 hour at room temperature before baking.

Option 2: Freeze Unbaked Rolls

• Freeze rolls after cutting and placing in the baking dish.

• When ready to use, allow rolls to thaw and rise for 4–6 hours.

Option 3: Freeze Baked Rolls

• Bake, cool completely, and freeze individually.

• Reheat in the oven or microwave and add icing fresh.

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Flavor Variations

Once you’ve mastered classic cinnamon rolls, try fun twists:

• Pecan Cinnamon Rolls – Add chopped pecans to the filling.

• Maple Cream Cheese Icing – Swap vanilla for maple extract.

• Apple Cinnamon Rolls – Add finely diced apples to the filling layer.

• Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Rolls – Sprinkle chocolate chips before rolling.

• Orange Cinnamon Rolls – Add orange zest to the filling and icing.

Small changes can bring new excitement without changing the base recipe.

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How to Store Cinnamon Rolls

If you have leftovers, here is the best way to keep them fresh:

• Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days

• Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving

The icing may firm up when chilled, but softens again when warmed.

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What to Serve with Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

These rolls pair beautifully with breakfast and brunch favorites, including:

• Scrambled or baked eggs

• Fresh fruit salad or berries

• Hash browns or breakfast potatoes

• Coffee, hot cocoa, milk, or tea

They also shine on their own as a sweet afternoon treat.

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Cinnamon Roll Troubleshooting Guide

Why didn’t my dough rise?

Yeast may have expired or the milk temperature was incorrect. Always check the yeast date and aim for a warm but not hot liquid.

Why are my cinnamon rolls tough?

Over-kneading or adding too much flour can create a dense dough. Add flour gradually and stop once the dough becomes smooth.

Why did the filling leak out?

Softening the filling butter too much can cause it to melt and run. Spread evenly and tightly roll the dough.

Why are the edges done but the center raw?

Your baking dish may be too small or rolls packed too tightly. Use a larger pan and allow more baking time as needed.

With these simple fixes, your cinnamon rolls will come out perfect every time.

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Nutrition Information

Approximate per roll with icing:

• Calories: 390–420

• Carbohydrates: 52g

• Protein: 6g

• Fat: 18g

• Sugar: 25g

Note: Values vary based on ingredient brands and portion size.

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FAQs About Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Can I make these cinnamon rolls without a stand mixer?

Absolutely. While a mixer makes kneading easier, this dough is manageable by hand. It may take a bit more time, but the result is just as soft and tender.

What type of flour works best?

All-purpose flour is the ideal balance for softness and structure. Bread flour may create chewier rolls, so adjust based on preference.

Can I make these rolls dairy-free?

Yes. Replace milk, butter, and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives such as almond milk and plant-based butters. Texture may vary slightly, but the rolls will still be delicious.

Can I cut the recipe in half?

Definitely. If you’re baking for a small family or just want a few rolls, halving the recipe works perfectly. Simply reduce ingredient amounts proportionally and use a smaller baking pan.

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Why Homemade Beats Store-Bought

The biggest advantage of homemade cinnamon rolls is full control over quality and flavor. You decide:

• How soft and thick the dough should be

• The sweetness of the filling

• The richness of the icing

• The ingredients used, ensuring no unnecessary additives

From the joy of kneading to the anticipation of watching dough rise, baking from scratch adds a personal touch no bakery box can compete with.

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A Recipe Worth Sharing

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing are more than a breakfast pastry. They are a tradition-building recipe that invites joy and connection. Serve them at:

• Weekend brunches with family

• Birthday mornings and holidays

• School bake sales and potlucks

• Coffee dates with friends

The soft dough, cinnamon-spiced filling, and creamy topping combine into a treat that is always welcomed with big smiles.

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Conclusion

Warm, fluffy, and perfectly sweet, these homemade cinnamon rolls are a true comfort classic that everyone should experience at least once. The ingredients are simple, the process is rewarding, and the results are spectacular. Whether you’re baking for a special celebration or need a cozy indulgence to brighten the day, these cinnamon rolls are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

So preheat your oven, sprinkle that cinnamon, and enjoy the magic of homemade baking. One bite, and you’ll understand why this recipe has become a beloved favorite in so many homes.

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