The Best Cinnamon Rolls!
These The Best Cinnamon Rolls! are the perfect treat for any occasion, especially during the festive season. Soft, fluffy, and gooey, they come topped with a rich cream cheese frosting that makes them irresistible. Whether it’s Christmas morning or a cozy brunch with friends, these giant cinnamon rolls will surely become a favorite. With their delightful sweetness and comforting aroma, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Deliciously Gooey: The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a warm, gooey filling that melts in your mouth.
- Perfect for Sharing: With 8 generous rolls, this recipe is ideal for gatherings or family breakfasts.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruit to the filling or even experiment with different frostings.
- Leftovers Reheat Well: These cinnamon rolls taste fantastic the next day; simply warm them up slightly before serving.

Tools and Preparation
To create these amazing cinnamon rolls, you will need some essential tools and equipment. Having the right kitchen gadgets can make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- large mixing bowl
- wooden spatula
- plastic wrap
- rolling pin
- dental floss (or sharp knife)
- 9×13 baking pan
- hand mixer
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Mixing Bowl: A spacious bowl helps you mix ingredients without spilling.
- Rolling Pin: This tool ensures an even thickness when rolling out the dough, which is key for even baking.
- Dental Floss: Using dental floss makes cutting clean slices of dough easy without squishing the rolls.
Ingredients
To make The Best Cinnamon Rolls!, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup milk, heated to 110 degrees F
- 2 + 1/4 tsp. active dry yeast
- 1 large room temperature egg
- 2 Tbsp. melted butter, divided
- 4 Tbsp. granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus 2-4 Tbsp
- 6 Tbsp. softened butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp. ground cinnamon
- 4 Tbsp. softened butter (for brushing)
- 4 oz. softened cream cheese
- 2 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
How to Make The Best Cinnamon Rolls!
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine 1 cup warm milk, 2 + 1/4 tsp. active dry yeast, 1 large egg, 1 Tbsp. melted butter, 4 Tbsp. granulated sugar, and 1/2 tsp. salt. Whisk until well mixed.
- Add in 3 cups all-purpose flour, mixing with a wooden spatula until combined.
- Gradually add an additional tablespoon of flour until the dough is no longer sticky.
- Knead the dough by hand for about 3 minutes until smooth.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Filling
Combine in a small bowl:
Mix together 6 Tbsp. softened butter, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 1 Tbsp. ground cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
- After the dough has risen, lightly dust your work surface with flour.
- Turn out the dough onto the floured surface and roll it into a rectangle measuring approximately 17 x 10 inches.
- Evenly spread out the prepared cinnamon filling over the dough.
- Starting from one long side, roll up the dough tightly into a log shape.
- Use dental floss to cut the rolled dough into 8 equal pieces.
Step 4: Let Them Rise Again
- Place each roll into a greased 9×13 pan, leaving space between them.
- Cover with plastic wrap again and let rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F while waiting.
Step 5: Bake
Once risen:
1. Brush each roll with the remaining 1 Tbsp melted butter.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Step 6: Make Cream Cheese Frosting
While cooling:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, use a hand mixer to beat together 4 Tbsp softened butter, 4 oz softened cream cheese, and 2 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Gradually add in 1 cup powdered sugar, mixing until fully combined.
Step 7: Frost and Serve
Spread frosting generously over each slightly warm cinnamon roll before serving and enjoy this delightful treat!
How to Serve The Best Cinnamon Rolls!
These cinnamon rolls are best served warm, right out of the oven, ensuring that the gooey filling and frosting melt in your mouth. Pair them with your favorite beverages or serve them as part of a delightful brunch spread.
With a Hot Beverage
- Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee complement the sweetness of cinnamon rolls perfectly.
- Hot Chocolate: For a cozy treat, pair these rolls with a cup of hot chocolate topped with whipped cream.
As a Brunch Centerpiece
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances the sweetness of the rolls and adds a nutritious touch.
- Bacon or Sausage: The saltiness of crispy bacon or sausage pairs well with the sweetness of cinnamon rolls.
With Additional Toppings
- Extra Frosting: Serve with extra cream cheese frosting on the side for those who want an even sweeter bite.
- Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
How to Perfect The Best Cinnamon Rolls!
To ensure your cinnamon rolls turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips that guarantee softness and flavor.
- Use Fresh Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising and fluffiness in your dough.
- Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic to develop gluten, which gives structure to your rolls.
- Allow Enough Rise Time: Don’t rush the rising process; allowing the dough to rise properly enhances texture and flavor.
- Keep Them Warm: When baking, place your rolls in a warm area to keep them soft and fluffy as they bake.
Best Side Dishes for The Best Cinnamon Rolls!
Enhance your meal by pairing these delicious cinnamon rolls with some tasty side dishes. Here are some options that work beautifully together.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance out the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy and refreshing side dish.
- Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns add a savory crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft rolls.
- Smoothie Bowl: A fruity smoothie bowl offers a refreshing counterpart to warm cinnamon rolls.
- Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toast brings a savory element that pairs well with sweet flavors.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can add richness to your brunch spread, providing various textures and tastes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making The Best Cinnamon Rolls can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can ruin your batch. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold milk or eggs can hinder the yeast’s activation. Always use room temperature ingredients for optimal results.
- Not kneading enough: If the dough isn’t kneaded well, the rolls won’t rise properly. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Skipping the first rise: Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for fluffiness. Don’t rush this step; give it at least an hour in a warm place.
- Overfilling with cinnamon filling: While it’s tempting to add more filling, too much can make the rolls soggy. Stick to the recipe for best results.
- Not cooling before frosting: Frosting hot cinnamon rolls can melt and become runny. Let them cool slightly before adding frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store The Best Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- They will last for up to 3 days.
Freezing The Best Cinnamon Rolls!
- Place fully cooled rolls in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating The Best Cinnamon Rolls!
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat rolls for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one roll at a time on high for about 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Cover and warm on low heat in a skillet for several minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making The Best Cinnamon Rolls:
How do I ensure my cinnamon rolls are fluffy?
To achieve fluffy cinnamon rolls, make sure your yeast is fresh and allow sufficient rising time during both rises.
Can I make The Best Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling.
What if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels sticky, gradually add more flour while kneading until it reaches a manageable consistency.
Can I customize the filling?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to your filling mix for added flavor.
How should I serve The Best Cinnamon Rolls?
These rolls are best served warm and drizzled with cream cheese frosting. They make a perfect brunch treat!
Final Thoughts
The Best Cinnamon Rolls are sure to delight everyone at your table. With their soft texture and sweet cream cheese frosting, they bring warmth and joy to any occasion! Feel free to customize them with different fillings or toppings. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a taste of heaven in every bite!
The Best Cinnamon Rolls!
Indulge in The Best Cinnamon Rolls! These soft, fluffy, and gooey delights are topped with rich cream cheese frosting, making them the ultimate treat for any occasion. Perfect for holidays or a cozy brunch with friends, these giant cinnamon rolls are bursting with flavor and irresistible aroma. With easy-to-follow instructions, you can create a batch that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Customize your rolls with nuts or dried fruits for an exciting twist, and enjoy the delightful combination of sweet cinnamon filling and creamy frosting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8 rolls 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 2 + 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 large egg
- 6 Tbsp butter (divided)
- 4 Tbsp granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp ground cinnamon
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Combine warm milk, yeast, egg, melted butter, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Mix well.
- Gradually add flour until dough forms; knead until smooth. Let rise covered for about 1 hour.
- Prepare filling by mixing softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Roll out dough into a rectangle; spread filling evenly and roll tightly into a log.
- Cut into 8 equal pieces and place in a greased baking pan to rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Beat cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar to make frosting; spread over warm rolls.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (90g)
- Calories: 345
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 54mg