Cinnamon Rolls Recipe – A Hug in a Bun

There’s something magical about waking up to the warm scent of Cinnamon Rolls wafting through the house. The gentle crackle of the oven, the sweet aroma dancing through each room, and the anticipation of biting into that swirled delight all make mornings feel brighter and cozier. Growing up, Sunday mornings were reserved for these fluffy rolls, often enjoyed fresh out of the oven alongside family and laughter. It’s a tradition that fills my heart with warmth and, I hope, it will fill yours too.

Why You’ll Love It

• Quick and easy to make, so you won’t spend all day in the kitchen.
• Always delivers that comforting homemade flavor that feels like a warm embrace.
• Made with simple ingredients that you probably already have at home.
• Perfect for any occasion, from casual brunches to special celebrations.
• They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—everyone loves them!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
  Essential for that soft, fluffy texture.
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  The magic ingredient that makes these rolls rise beautifully.
• 1 cup warm milk
  Helps activate the yeast and creates a tender dough.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  Just the right amount to balance the flavors.
• 1 egg
  Adds richness and structure to the dough.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  Butter makes it better—this adds flavor and moisture.
• 1/2 tsp salt
  Enhances all flavors beautifully.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  For that luscious filling.
• 1 cup brown sugar
  Adds depth and that sticky sweetness we crave.
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
  Is there even a Cinnamon Rolls recipe without cinnamon?
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
  Adds a lovely crunch if you like a bit of texture.
• 1 cup powdered sugar
  For the sweet glaze that takes these rolls over the top.
• 2 tbsp milk or cream
  To make your glaze creamy and dreamy.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  A hint of vanilla warms everything up even more.

How to Make It

1. Dissolve the Yeast: In a small bowl, stir the yeast into the warm milk. Set it aside for about 5-10 minutes until it’s frothy and bubbling—this is a sign that your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!

2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Then, add the frothy yeast mixture along with the egg and melted butter. Mix everything until it’s just coming together, and then knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes. You want it smooth and elastic, like a cozy blanket.

3. Let it Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and put it in a warm spot. Let it rise for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it’s doubled in size. This is the perfect time to enjoy a cup of coffee and indulge in the anticipation of what’s to come!

4. Make the Filling: While the dough rises, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. If you’re feeling nutty, toss in some chopped nuts for a delightful crunch.

5. Prepare the Rolls: Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, making sure to reach all the corners. Then, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into even slices, about 1-2 inches thick.

6. Second Rise: Place the slices into a greased baking dish, leaving enough space between each roll for them to rise some more. Cover again and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes while you preheat the oven.

7. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and your kitchen smells like heaven.

8. Make the Glaze: While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

9. Glaze and Serve: As soon as those Cinnamon Rolls come out of the oven, drizzle the glaze over them while they’re still warm. Then, take a moment to enjoy the beautiful sight before diving in!

Kitchen Tips

• Time-Saving Trick: You can make the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight. The next morning, just roll it out and bake!
• Common Mistake Fix: If your rolls aren’t rising well, check the expiration date on your yeast. It should be fresh and bubbly when mixed with warm milk.
• Creative Twist: Try adding a dash of nutmeg to the filling for an extra layer of warm spice or swap out the chopped nuts for mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise!

Serving Ideas

These Cinnamon Rolls make for the perfect family dinner treat, a lovely Sunday brunch, or a cozy night in. Imagine serving them warm from the oven with a side of fresh fruit and a steaming cup of coffee. You could even add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a dusting of cocoa powder for visual delight. They’re as perfect on a holiday table as they are on a relaxed weekday morning.

Storing & Leftovers

• Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. You can freeze them too—just wrap each roll individually and keep them in a freezer bag for up to a month.
• Reheating: Gently reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds or place in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked goodness.
• Fun Leftover Idea: Transform stale rolls into delightful French toast! Just soak slices in a custard mixture and grill them to golden perfection.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Definitely! If you want to make these Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time, just let them rise in the fridge overnight and bake them fresh in the morning.

Q: Can I swap any ingredients?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is very forgiving. Feel free to substitute with your favorite nut butter or use almond milk if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.

Q: What’s the best way to serve it?
A: Fresh from the pan, while it’s still warm and aromatic—this is when they taste the best!

Q: How do I know it’s perfectly cooked?
A: Look for a golden brown top and an irresistible smell filling your kitchen—that’s your sign they’re ready to enjoy!

Final Thoughts

From my kitchen to yours, I truly hope these Cinnamon Rolls become a cherished recipe in your home. They carry with them the warmth of shared moments and laughter. So, gather your loved ones, bake a batch (or two!), and create your own traditions filled with sweetness. Whether you enjoy them over a cup of tea or share them during a festive gathering, they’re sure to bring smiles to your table. Happy baking!

Cinnamon Rolls

Indulge in warm, fluffy cinnamon rolls that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, delivering comforting flavor and a sense of home.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Breakfast, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 300

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Dough Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour Essential for that soft, fluffy texture.
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast The magic ingredient that makes these rolls rise beautifully.
• 1 cup warm milk Helps activate the yeast and creates a tender dough.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar Just the right amount to balance the flavors.
• 1 egg egg Adds richness and structure to the dough.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted Butter makes it better—this adds flavor and moisture.
• 1/2 tsp salt Enhances all flavors beautifully.

Filling Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened For that luscious filling.
• 1 cup brown sugar Adds depth and that sticky sweetness we crave.
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon Is there even a Cinnamon Rolls recipe without cinnamon?
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts Optional, adds a lovely crunch if you like a bit of texture.

Glaze Ingredients

• 1 cup powdered sugar For the sweet glaze that takes these rolls over the top.
• 2 tbsp milk or cream To make your glaze creamy and dreamy.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract A hint of vanilla warms everything up even more.

Method

 

Dissolve the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, stir the yeast into the warm milk. Set it aside for about 5-10 minutes until it’s frothy and bubbling.

Mix the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the frothy yeast mixture along with the egg and melted butter. Mix until just combined and then knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes.

Let it Rise

1. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and put it in a warm spot. Let it rise for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it’s doubled in size.

Make the Filling

1. While the dough rises, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Add chopped nuts if desired.

Prepare the Rolls

1. Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly, then roll tightly into a log. Cut the log into slices, about 1-2 inches thick.

Second Rise

1. Place the slices into a greased baking dish, leaving space between them. Cover and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes while you preheat the oven.

Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Make the Glaze

1. While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Glaze and Serve

1. As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, drizzle the glaze over them while they’re still warm.

Notes

Time-Saving Trick: You can make the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight. If your rolls aren’t rising well, check the expiration date on your yeast. Try adding a dash of nutmeg for extra flavor or swap nuts for mini chocolate chips.