Step-by-step instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk and let it sit until foamy, about 5-10 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, melted butter, salt, eggs, and the yeast mixture. Mix well until combined.
- Gradually add flour to the mixture, stirring until a smooth dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place until it’s doubled in size, about 1-1.5 hours.
- Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle measuring 16×12 inches.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough.
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon together, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
- Starting from the long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log and cut it into 12 equal slices.
- Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, cover them, and let rise until nearly doubled, about 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown.
- While the rolls are baking, you can prepare the icing by mixing powdered sugar, melted butter, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
- Spread the icing over warm cinnamon rolls just before serving to ensure a delicious melt.
Best ways to enjoy it
These beautiful cinnamon rolls shine when served warm and gooey—it’s simply irresistible! You can accompany them with a side of fresh fruit salad or pair them with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or brunch experience. For an elegant touch, dust with a little extra powdered sugar or drizzle some caramel sauce over the top.
How to store & freeze
To keep your cinnamon rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure they’re tightly wrapped in plastic and then placed in a freezer bag. For reheating, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Helpful cooking tips
- If you’re baking in a cooler environment, you can place the dough in an oven with the light on to create a warm setting for it to rise.
- Try adding some raisins or nuts to the filling for an extra flavor twist.
- If you’re short on time, prepare the rolls the night before. After you roll and cut them, place them in the refrigerator overnight and then bake them in the morning—perfect for lazy Sundays!
Creative twists
To switch things up, consider adding different spices like nutmeg or cardamom to the filling alongside the cinnamon. For a completely unique experience, experiment with flavor-infused icing, such as almond or maple. If you’re feeling adventurous, stuff the rolls with chocolate chips or apple pie filling for a delicious surprise inside.
Common questions
How long does it take to make cinnamon rolls from start to finish?
From start to finish, including rise time, this recipe takes about 3-4 hours. The majority of that time is waiting for the dough to rise.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Absolutely! If using instant yeast, there’s no need to activate it in warm milk. Just mix it directly into the dry ingredients.
How can I make these cinnamon rolls vegan?
To make these rolls vegan, substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce, use plant-based milk, and replace butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.
