Easy Cinnamon Rolls (from scratch)

why make this recipe

Easy Cinnamon Rolls made from scratch are a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort to your kitchen. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy afternoon snack. The aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls can attract anyone to the table. Plus, making them from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and enjoy the satisfaction of baking.

how to make Easy Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients:

• 2 and 3/4 cups (344g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled), plus more as needed
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup (180ml) whole milk
• 3 Tablespoons (43g) unsalted butter
• 2 and 1/4 teaspoons Platinum Yeast from Red Star or any instant yeast (1 standard packet)
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 3 Tablespoons (43g) unsalted butter, extra softened
• 1/3 cup (67g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 4 ounces (113g) full-fat block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 2 Tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 2/3 cup (80g) confectioners’ sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Whisk the flour, sugar, and salt together in a large bowl. Set aside.
2. Combine the milk and butter in a heatproof bowl. Microwave or heat on the stove until the butter melts and the mixture is warm (about 110°F/43°C). Whisk in the yeast until dissolved. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients, add the egg, and stir with a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon, or use a stand mixer on medium speed. Mix until you form a soft dough.
3. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Using floured hands, knead the dough for 3–5 minutes until smooth. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. Place it in a greased bowl, cover loosely, and let it rest for about 10 minutes while preparing the filling.
4. After 10 minutes, roll the dough out into a 14×8-inch (36×20 cm) rectangle. Spread the softened butter on top. Mix the cinnamon and brown sugar, then sprinkle it over the dough. Roll it up to create a log, cut into 10-12 even rolls, and place them in a greased 9- or 10-inch round cake pan, pie dish, or square baking pan.
5. Cover the pan with foil, plastic wrap, or a clean kitchen towel. Let the rolls rise in a warm spot for 60–90 minutes until they double in size.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 24–27 minutes, or until lightly browned. If they brown too quickly, tent the pan with foil. For precise doneness, the internal temperature should be around 195–200°F (91–93°C). Remove from the oven and place on a wire rack.
7. To make the icing, beat the cream cheese on high speed until smooth. Add the butter and mix until combined, then add the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla until mixed well. Spread the icing over the warm rolls and serve immediately.
8. Store any leftover frosted or unfrosted rolls covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

how to serve Easy Cinnamon Rolls

Serve Easy Cinnamon Rolls warm, drizzled with creamy icing on top. They are perfect alongside a cup of coffee or tea. You can also enjoy them with fresh fruit for a touch of sweetness and color.

how to store Easy Cinnamon Rolls

Store any leftover Easy Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

tips to make Easy Cinnamon Rolls

• Make sure your yeast is fresh for the best rise.
• If your dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as you knead.
• Allow plenty of time for the rolls to rise; this is key for fluffy cinnamon rolls.
• For a fun twist, try adding raisins or nuts to the filling.

variation

You can customize the filling by adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts. For a chocolatey treat, sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top of the cinnamon sugar mixture before rolling.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight before baking.

Q: What if I don’t have instant yeast?
A: You can use active dry yeast instead; just activate it in warm milk for about 5-10 minutes before mixing with the dry ingredients.

Q: How can I adjust the sweetness of the icing?
A: You can decrease or increase the amount of confectioners’ sugar in the icing based on your taste preference.

Enjoy your homemade Easy Cinnamon Rolls and share the goodness with family and friends!

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