Name: Easy Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 27 min
Total time: 2 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 and 3/4 cups (344g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled), plus more as needed; 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup (180ml) whole milk; 3 Tablespoons (43g) unsalted butter; 2 and 1/4 teaspoons Platinum Yeast from Red Star or any instant yeast (1 standard packet); 1 large egg, at room temperature; 3 Tablespoons (43g) unsalted butter, extra softened; 1/3 cup (67g) packed light or dark brown sugar; 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon; 4 ounces (113g) full-fat block cream cheese, softened to room temperature; 2 Tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 2/3 cup (80g) confectioners’ sugar; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

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If you’re craving a comforting, sweet treat with a warm, gooey center and irresistible aroma, you have to try this Easy Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch Recipe. Nothing beats biting into soft, tender rolls swirled with cinnamon and brown sugar, topped with luscious cream cheese icing, all made with simple ingredients that transform your kitchen into a bakery. Whether it’s for a lazy weekend breakfast or a special occasion, these cinnamon rolls will quickly become a beloved favorite, showing you just how fun and rewarding baking from scratch can be!

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows ingredients for baking arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center is a clear glass bowl filled with white flour, with chunks on top creating a rough texture. Above it is a clear glass measuring cup with white whole milk. To the left is a stick of light yellow butter partially unwrapped, and below it is a single brown egg. To the right of the milk is a small white bowl holding white salt, and next to it is a white packet of yeast. Below the flour bowl, two small clear glass bowls hold brown sugar with a rough, clumpy texture and white sugar with a powdery texture. On the far left is a small bowl filled with dark brown cinnamon powder, showing a fine grainy texture. The layout is neat and clean, perfect for demonstrating baking basics, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might look straightforward, but each plays a vital role in making your cinnamon rolls delightfully soft, flavorful, and tender. From the precise flour that forms the dough’s foundation to the rich cream cheese that creates the perfect icing, you’ll see how every element contributes to this delicious recipe.

All-purpose flour (2 and ¾ cups): Provides the structure for your dough, ensuring just the right texture.
Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Adds a touch of sweetness and helps with browning during baking.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
Whole milk (¾ cup): Brings tenderness and moisture for a perfectly soft crumb.
Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons + 2 tablespoons softened): Adds richness and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth softness both in the dough and the filling.
Instant yeast (2 and ¼ teaspoons): Gives your rolls their fluffy rise and light texture.
Large egg (1): Binds everything together and adds depth to the dough’s flavor.
Brown sugar (⅓ cup): Mixed with cinnamon, it forms the sweet, sticky filling you’ll love.
Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon): The star spice that infuses the rolls with warm, cozy flavor.
Cream cheese (4 ounces): Creates the irresistible tangy icing that perfectly crowns each roll.
Confectioners’ sugar (⅔ cup): Sweetens the icing to velvety smooth perfection.
Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle fragrant note to the icing, enhancing every bite.

How to Make Easy Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by whisking together your flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Meanwhile, warm the milk and butter until the butter melts and the mixture is pleasantly warm—this activates the yeast perfectly. Stir in the yeast until it dissolves, then mix it all with the dry ingredients and the egg. You can use a stand mixer or mix by hand using a sturdy spoon. Once a soft dough forms, knead it for a few minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rest briefly while you get ready for the filling.

Step 2: Roll Out and Add Filling

After the short rest, roll the dough into a 14 by 8-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture generously across the surface. This combination is what gives the rolls their signature sweet and spicy swirls. Roll the dough tightly into a 14-inch log and slice into 10 to 12 equal pieces. Arrange these in a greased baking dish, giving them enough room to expand as they rise.

Step 3: Let the Rolls Rise

Cover your pan with a kitchen towel, plastic wrap, or foil and place it somewhere warm and draft-free. Patience here is key—let the dough rise for about 60 to 90 minutes until it’s doubled in size and fluffy. This step is what ensures those incredible soft, pillowy rolls everyone adores.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 24 to 27 minutes, or until their tops turn a lovely golden brown. If they start browning too fast, tent the pan loosely with foil to prevent burning. The crumb inside should be fully cooked but still so soft it melts in your mouth. An instant-read thermometer should register around 195°F to 200°F for perfect doneness.

Step 5: Make and Add the Icing

While the rolls bake or immediately after pulling them from the oven, whip up the cream cheese icing. Beat softened cream cheese until smooth, then add the butter, confectioners' sugar, and vanilla. Whisk until fluffy and spreadable. Slather this luscious icing over warm rolls so it melts into every nook and cranny, elevating your Easy Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch Recipe to heavenly heights.

How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch Recipe

A round glass dish filled with nine cinnamon rolls baked golden brown, each topped thickly with creamy white icing that looks smooth and soft. The cinnamon rolls show distinct swirls of brown cinnamon filling visible through the light tan dough. A silver knife with a wooden handle rests on top, spreading more white icing on one of the cinnamon rolls. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface with a soft pink towel partially seen at the bottom left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To amp up presentation and flavor, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top of your icing. You can even toss on some chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the softness of the rolls.

Side Dishes

Serve these rolls with a steaming cup of coffee, rich hot chocolate, or a chilled glass of milk. Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a citrus salad can brighten the meal and balance the sweetness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking rolls on a tiered serving tray for a brunch spread or arrange them in individual ramekins for personal servings. Wrapping one in parchment paper tied with a ribbon makes an adorable gift for friends or neighbors!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to enjoy them within a day. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator where they keep wonderfully fresh for up to five days.

Freezing

Wrap individual rolls or the whole batch tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before popping into the freezer. They’ll stay delicious for up to three months, letting you enjoy your Easy Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch Recipe whenever a craving hits.

Reheating

Reheat cinnamon rolls gently in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or in a 350°F (175°C) oven covered with foil for about 10 minutes. This revives their softness and lets the cream cheese icing melt slightly again—almost like freshly baked all over again!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of yeast for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for instant yeast for convenience and consistent rise, you can use active dry yeast too—just be sure to proof it in warm milk first before mixing it into your dough.

Is it necessary to use whole milk?

Whole milk adds richness and softness, but you can substitute with 2% or even non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk if needed. Just make sure it’s warm to help activate the yeast properly.

Can I make the dough the night before?

Yes! After kneading, cover the dough tightly and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, roll, fill, and bake as usual. This slow rise develops even more flavor and lets you enjoy fresh cinnamon rolls with less morning prep.

How do I prevent the rolls from drying out?

Cover baked rolls tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to keep moisture in. Reheating with a damp paper towel can also help restore softness.

Can I add mix-ins like raisins or nuts?

Definitely! Feel free to sprinkle raisins, chopped nuts, or even chocolate chips into the cinnamon sugar filling before rolling up the dough. It’s a fun way to personalize your Easy Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch Recipe.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating bakery-quality cinnamon rolls right in your own kitchen, and this Easy Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch Recipe makes it easier than ever. With simple ingredients and clear steps, you’re soon enjoying warm swirls of cinnamon goodness topped with creamy icing. I can’t wait for you to bake a batch for yourself and watch them disappear bite by bite with joy. Happy baking and even happier eating!

Easy Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need