THE BEST-EVER HOMEMADE CINNAMON ROLLS

This homemade cinnamon rolls recipe is a treasured family favorite, passed down from my grandma’s old cookbook. We’ve been making these fluffy cinnamon rolls for years, and they’ve become a beloved tradition in our home. Every time we bake them, the house fills with the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon and sugar, and it’s impossible to resist sneaking a bite before they’re fully frosted.

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that the secret to the best ever cinnamon roll recipe lies in how you handle the dough. Grandma always swore by adding the melted butter at the very end, right before the final mix.

It makes a world of difference, creating the softest, most pillowy texture. Trust me – this is, hands down, the best cinnamon roll dough recipe you’ll ever find!

The dough is light and airy, the filling is rich with cinnamon and brown sugar, and the cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting are the ultimate finishing touch. Whether you’re baking these for a special occasion or just because, they’re guaranteed to impress.

If you’re looking for easy homemade cinnamon rolls, this recipe is a winner. It’s straightforward, uses simple ingredients, and delivers bakery-quality results every time.

Plus,It’s the kind of comforting bake that turns a lazy Sunday morning into something extraordinary. And honestly? There’s nothing better than sharing a batch of these rolls with the people you love.

So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake the most delicious cinnamon rolls you’ve ever tasted!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3/4 cup (180 ml) warm milk (110°F / 45°C)
• 2 1/4 tsp (7 g) active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 2 egg yolk (room temperature)
• 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 tsp (4.5 g) salt

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200 g) brown sugar (light or dark)
• 2 1/2 tbsp (15 g) ground cinnamon
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional, but magical!)

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
• 3 tbsp (45 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) vanilla extract
• 1–2 tbsp (15–30 ml) milk (for desired consistency)

Instructions

1. Make the Dough

1. In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup (60 ml) of the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tbsp (12 g) sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, add the flour and salt. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg, egg yolk, and the remaining 1/2 cup (120 ml) of warm milk.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the flour, followed by the egg and milk mixture. Mix with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook until combined.
4. Once the dough comes together, gradually add the melted butter in a slow stream, mixing until fully incorporated. Continue kneading with the mixer for 6–8 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and slightly tacky.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling

1. In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg into a thick paste.

3. Assemble the Rolls

1. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a 12×16-inch (30×40 cm) rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/4-inch (0.5 cm) border.
2. Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
3. Cut into 12 even rolls (dental floss works great for clean cuts). Arrange in a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) pan or in a cast iron skillet. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffed.

4. Bake the Rolls

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until lightly golden.

5. Make the Glaze

1. Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk, and mix until creamy.

6. Glaze and Devour

1. Spread the glaze over warm rolls. Serve immediately and bask in the glory of your cinnamon roll masterpiece.

Tips for Success

• Make-ahead option: Assemble rolls the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning.
• For extra gooeyness, brush the rolls with heavy cream just before baking.
• Don’t skip the pinch of nutmeg- it adds depth to the flavor!

Nutrition Information (Per Roll):

• Calories: ~340 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Fat: 13 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Sugar: 25 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Fiber: 1 g

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