Cinnamon Rolls – Soft, Sweet, and Perfect for Cozy Mornings

Warm, buttery, and laced with cinnamon sugar — these homemade Cinnamon Rolls are pure comfort in every bite. There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked rolls filling the kitchen, promising cozy mornings and sweet memories.

Soft, fluffy layers swirled with sweet spice and finished with a creamy glaze create the ultimate bakery-style treat, right from your own kitchen. If you love soft, nostalgic bakes, you might also enjoy our Donut Muffins, another easy, cozy favorite for breakfast or brunch.

Whether for special brunches, cozy weekends, or whenever you crave something truly decadent, this easy cinnamon roll recipe will become a favorite. And if you’re planning a festive table, our Christmas Cookies add even more sweetness and celebration to the spread.

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Recipe Summary

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours (including rising)
Servings: 12 rolls
Difficulty: Moderate

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Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3½ cups all-purpose flour (440g)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (50g)
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (7g)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup warm milk (180ml)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (57g)
• 2 large eggs

For the Filling:

• ⅔ cup brown sugar, packed (130g)
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon (15g)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened (57g)

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar (120g)
• 2 tablespoons milk (30ml)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (2.5ml)

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast.
   Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add the melted butter, eggs, salt, and half of the flour.
   Mix until combined, then gradually add the remaining flour.
   Knead the dough by hand or mixer for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) thick.
5. Spread the softened butter over the dough.
   Sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon.
6. Roll the dough up tightly, starting from a long side.
   Slice into 12 equal rolls.
7. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking pan.
   Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.
8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until lightly golden.
9. While rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make the glaze.
10. Drizzle the glaze over warm rolls before serving.

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Notes

Let the dough rise fully for fluffy rolls.
Don’t overbake — remove once just lightly golden.
Glaze while warm for melty goodness!

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Variations & Add-ons

Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for crunch.
Swirl in a little orange zest with the filling for brightness.
Top with a rich cream cheese frosting for extra decadence.

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Nutrition Information (Per Roll)

• Calories: 310 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 19g

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Background Story

The beloved cinnamon roll has its roots in Northern Europe, particularly Sweden, where “kanelbullar” have been enjoyed since the early 20th century.

Cinnamon, a prized spice historically associated with luxury, became the heart of this sweet spiral-shaped pastry, perfectly complementing rich, buttery dough.

As cinnamon rolls traveled to America, they evolved into the gooey, frosting-drizzled versions we adore today — a centerpiece of brunch tables, bakeries, and coffee mornings across the country.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve these cinnamon rolls warm from the oven, glazed and still slightly gooey, for the ultimate indulgence.

They pair beautifully with fresh fruit, coffee, or a cozy hot chocolate, making them perfect for breakfasts, brunches, or afternoon treats.

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FAQs About Cinnamon Rolls

Can I make the dough the night before?
Yes!
Prepare the rolls up to the second rise, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight.
Bake fresh in the morning.

What’s the best way to reheat cinnamon rolls?
A few seconds in the microwave or a low oven warms them up perfectly without drying them out.

Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?
Yes — freeze after baking and cooling, then reheat and glaze fresh before serving.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry?
Absolutely.
Instant yeast can be mixed directly into the flour without proofing first.

How do I keep cinnamon rolls soft?
Store in an airtight container and avoid overbaking to keep them tender and moist.

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Final Thoughts

Soft, warm, rich, and perfectly sweet — these Cinnamon Rolls are everything you want for a cozy, homemade treat.

Comforting, luxurious, and made with love.