Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (not hot)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ tsp salt
For the Filling:
- ⅔ cup brown sugar
- 1 ½ tbsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This means the yeast is active.
2. Make the Dough
In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, egg, egg yolk, and melted butter. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough (by hand or mixer) for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If sticky, add a little flour—but don’t overdo it.
3. First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
4. Prepare the Filling
Mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside. Keep butter softened and ready.
5. Roll & Fill
Roll the dough into a rectangle (about 14×9 inches). Spread softened butter evenly, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over it.
6. Shape the Rolls
Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log. Cut into 9–12 equal rolls.
7. Second Rise
Place rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
8. Bake
Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes until lightly golden.
9. Make the Frosting
Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth and creamy.
10. Frost & Serve
Spread frosting over warm rolls so it melts into the layers. Serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls
- Use room temperature ingredients for better dough texture
- Don’t overheat milk—it can kill the yeast
- For extra soft rolls, slightly underbake them
- Let them cool just a little before frosting for the perfect melt
Variations
- Add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling
- Swap frosting for a simple vanilla glaze
- Make overnight rolls by refrigerating after shaping
Final Thoughts
Homemade cinnamon rolls take a bit of time, but the reward is unbeatable. The aroma alone fills your home with warmth, and each bite delivers soft dough, sweet spice, and creamy topping in perfect harmony.
Once you make them from scratch, it’s hard to go back to store-bought!