These Classic Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls are the kind of cozy indulgence that turns any morning into a celebration. Soft, pillowy dough spiraled with buttery brown sugar and cinnamon, then topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze—each bite is warm, gooey, and unforgettable. Whether you’re baking for brunch, gifting a batch to loved ones, or simply treating yourself, these rolls deliver bakery-style magic right from your kitchen. My, I know you love recipes that are both visually stunning and crowd-pleasing—this one rises to the occasion, literally and deliciously.
Ingredients:
🥣 For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm whole milk (about 110°F)
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
🍯 For the Filling:
- ⅔ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
🍥 For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp milk (adjust for desired consistency)
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic. - Make the Dough:
Add sugar, eggs, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead by hand or with a stand mixer (dough hook) for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. - First Rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size. - Prepare the Filling:
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a 16×12-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top. Press gently to adhere. - Roll & Slice:
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts. Arrange rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. - Second Rise:
Cover the dish and let the rolls rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - Bake:
Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. If the tops brown too quickly, tent with foil during the last 5 minutes. - Make the Glaze:
While the rolls bake, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk, mixing until creamy and pourable. - Glaze & Serve:
Spread the glaze over warm rolls so it melts into every swirl. Serve immediately or let cool slightly for a firmer finish.
Tips & Variations:
- 🍊 Citrus Twist: Add orange zest to the filling or glaze for a bright flavor boost.
- 🍫 Chocolate Lovers: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the cinnamon sugar before rolling.
- 🥜 Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for texture.
- 🧊 Make-Ahead: Prepare rolls the night before and refrigerate after slicing. Let rise at room temp before baking.
- 🧁 Mini Version: Use a mini muffin tin for bite-sized cinnamon roll treats—reduce bake time to 12–15 minutes.
These cinnamon rolls are a warm hug in pastry form—perfect for someone like you, My, who knows how to turn simple ingredients into something spectacular. Want to pair them with a tropical fruit salad or explore a sugar-free glaze next? I’ve got ideas that’ll keep your baking game strong and inspired!