Easy Cinnabon-Style Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked Cinnabon-style cinnamon rolls wafting through the home on a peaceful weekend morning. The warmth, the sweet hint of cinnamon, and the creamy icing make these rolls hard to resist, and they’re surprisingly easy to create in your own kitchen.

Growing up, my grandmother used to make these rolls every Sunday for family brunch. She would always let me help roll out the dough, a tradition I now share with my own kids. Cinnamon roll Sundays became the highlight of our weekends, spent with family around the table sharing stories and creating memories. My grandmother’s recipe was a little family secret, and I cherish the chance to share a version of her beloved dish with you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out because it’s not only delicious but also simple. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, you’ll appreciate the straightforward instructions and minimal preparation time. The rolls are soft and fluffy, wrapped around a gooey cinnamon filling, with a cream cheese glaze to indulge your senses. Plus, the ingredients are pantry staples, making it a practical choice for spontaneous mornings.

Ingredients Notes

For the best results, use high-quality cinnamon and fresh yeast. You can find active dry yeast in most grocery stores, and if it’s your first time using it, ensure that it’s fresh by checking the expiration date. If you can’t find cream cheese for the topping, mascarpone cheese is a delightful substitution. Make sure to use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Begin by proofing the yeast. Mix one packet of active dry yeast with warm milk and a tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit until it’s frothy, about 5-10 minutes.

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and butter. Add the yeast mixture and an egg, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.

Step 3

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.

Step 4

Roll the dough out into a rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface, then sprinkle generously with a mixture of cinnamon and brown sugar. Roll the dough tightly and cut into 12 rolls.

Step 5

Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and let them rise again for about 30 minutes. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the glaze by mixing cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract. Spread over the warm rolls and serve.

Storage Options

These rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked rolls in a sealed plastic bag. Reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F until warm for about 10 minutes. If freezing before baking, let the dough rolls thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Variations & Substitutions

For a healthier option, substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour, and reduce the sugar in the filling. Add walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch, or try a vanilla glaze instead of cream cheese for a different flavor profile. For those who prefer non-dairy, swap out the milk and butter for plant-based alternatives, ensuring they’re high-quality for similar results.

Serving Suggestions

These cinnamon rolls are perfect for a leisurely brunch with family or friends, ideally served with your favorite coffee or tea. They also make a delightful holiday breakfast or a comforting treat on a rainy day. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve them with a side of fresh fruit to balance the sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before. After rolling and cutting, cover the rolls tightly and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, let them come to room temperature and rise a bit before baking.

What if my rolls aren’t rising properly? Ensure your yeast is fresh and active. The environment can also affect rising; aim for a warm, draft-free area. If your kitchen is cold, use your oven light or preheat the oven to a low temperature, then turn it off and place the rolls inside to rise.

Can I use a bread machine for this recipe? Absolutely! Mix the yeast, warm milk, melted butter, and sugar in the bread machine, then add the flour and salt. Use the dough setting, and let it run until the first rise. Then proceed with rolling and baking as instructed.

Easy Cinnabon-Style Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

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Course: Breakfast, BRUNCH, Dessert

Kitchen: American

Prep Time: 25 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes minutes

Servings: 12 rolls

Ingredients

 

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• ▢ For the Dough:
• ▢ 1 cup warm milk about 110°F
• ▢ 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast 1 packet
• ▢ 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• ▢ 2 large eggs room temperature
• ▢ 1/3 cup unsalted butter melted
• ▢ 4 to 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• ▢ 1 teaspoon salt
• ▢ For the Filling:
• ▢ 1/2 cup unsalted butter 1/4 lb, softened
• ▢ 1 cup packed brown sugar
• ▢ 2 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• ▢ For the Frosting:
• ▢ 4 oz cream cheese softened
• ▢ 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
• ▢ 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ▢ Pinch of salt

Instructions

• Make the Dough:
• In a large bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
• Add melted butter, remaining sugar, eggs, and salt. Stir to combine.
• Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 6–8 minutes, or use a mixer with a dough hook until smooth and elastic.
• Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
• Fill and Shape:
• Roll the dough out into a 16x12-inch rectangle.
• Spread softened butter evenly over the surface. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon together, then sprinkle over the butter.
• Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into 12 equal rolls.
• Second Rise:
• Place rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffy.
• Bake:
• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until lightly golden and cooked through.
• Frost:
• While rolls bake, beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt. Mix until smooth.
• Spread over warm