BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

These BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat for any occasion! With their fluffy texture and rich flavors, they are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a special dessert. The combination of sweet cinnamon filling and creamy frosting makes these rolls irresistible. Plus, making them from scratch adds a personal touch that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Fluffy: The dough is soft and pillowy, giving each roll an amazing texture.
• Irresistible Filling: A sweet cinnamon mixture ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: The ooey gooey topping takes these cinnamon rolls to the next level.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These rolls are great for holidays, brunches, or simply as a weekend treat.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll have homemade rolls in no time.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls, gather the necessary tools and ingredients. Having the right equipment will make your baking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish (9×13 inch)
• Electric mixer (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve that perfect dough thickness for even baking.
• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and provides ample space for the rolls to rise.

Ingredients

These are the absolute BEST cinnamon rolls ever!! With a pillowy soft homemade dough, sweet cinnamon filling, and ooey gooey cream cheese frosting, there’s no better treat!

Ingredients:
– 4-5 cups (480g-600g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 2 & 1/4 teaspoons (1 package) instant yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup (180mL) water
– 1/2 cup (120mL) whole milk
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, cut into 4 slices
– 1 large egg, at room temperature
– 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, very soft
– 3/4 cup (150g) packed brown sugar, light or dark
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– 4 ounces (115g) block cream cheese, room temperature
– 5 tablespoons (70g) unsalted butter, room temperature
– 1 & 1/2 cups (195g) powdered sugar
– pinch of salt
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

How to Make BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine 3 cups of flour (to start), sugar, yeast, and salt. Whisk to combine and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In a medium microwave-safe bowl or cup:
Combine water, milk, and sliced butter.
Microwave in 10-second bursts until the butter just melts and the mixture feels warm but not hot. Alternatively, you can do this on low heat on the stove.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients with Egg

Whisk the egg into the warm water mixture until combined.

Step 4: Create Dough Mixture

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon:
Mix together until you have a very thick and sticky dough.

Step 5: Add More Flour

Add another cup of flour to the dough. Mix until it starts coming together into a ball.

Step 6: Knead Dough

Knead the dough:
You can do this in your bowl or on a lightly floured surface.
Add flour as needed to prevent sticking until smooth and elastic.

Step 7: Rest Dough

Cover the dough and set aside for about 20 minutes. It will puff up slightly but won’t double in size.

Step 8: Roll Out Dough

Turn rested dough onto a floured surface. Roll out into a roughly rectangular shape about 14×10 inches.

Step 9: Add Filling

Spread softened butter over the dough while leaving a half-inch border along the edges. Sprinkle sugar evenly over it followed by ground cinnamon.

Step 10: Roll Up Dough

Starting from one longer side of the rectangle, roll it up tightly into a log shape.

Step 11: Trim Ends

Cut about half an inch off each end of the log to create uniform rolls if desired.

Step 12: Cut Into Rolls

Using either:
A sharp serrated knife or unflavored dental floss,
cut the log into twelve even pieces using gentle sawing motions or floss cutting technique.

Step 13: Arrange Rolls

Place cut side up in a greased baking dish with slight spacing between each roll.

Step 14: Let Rise Again

Cover rolls and let them rise in a warm place for about forty-five minutes until doubled in size.

Step 15: Bake Rolls

Uncover rolls and bake in preheated oven at350°F (175°C)for twenty-five to thirty minutes until golden brown on top.

Step 16: Prepare Icing

In another bowl, mix icing ingredients together using an electric mixer or wooden spoon until smooth.

Step 17: Frost Warm Rolls

Once baked rolls are warm, spread icing generously on top so it melts slightly into them for added gooeyness!

Now you’re ready to indulge in these delightful BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Serving your BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls is just as important as baking them. The way you present and accompany these delightful rolls can elevate the experience for your guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

Classic Breakfast Delight

• Serve warm with a side of crispy bacon or sausage links for a hearty breakfast combination.

Coffee Companion

• Pair the cinnamon rolls with freshly brewed coffee or a latte. The warmth of the drink complements the sweet, gooey rolls perfectly.

Sweet and Fruity Touch

• Add a side of fresh fruit such as berries or sliced bananas to balance the sweetness of the rolls.

Ice Cream Indulgence

• Top a warm cinnamon roll with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert treat.

Drizzle Extra Icing

• Serve with an extra drizzle of cream cheese frosting on top for those who love an extra sweet touch.

Festive Platter

• Arrange the cinnamon rolls on a decorative platter, garnished with mint leaves or edible flowers for special occasions.

How to Perfect BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Perfecting your BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to make sure they turn out just right.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensure your egg, milk, and butter are at room temperature for better dough consistency.

• Knead Thoroughly – Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. This helps develop gluten, giving your rolls their fluffy texture.

• Don’t Rush Rising Time – Allow the dough to rise slowly in a warm place. This enhances flavor and texture.

• Check Oven Temperature – Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures. An oven that’s too hot can burn the tops before they cook through.

• Adjust Flour Gradually – Add flour little by little while kneading to avoid over-flouring, which can lead to dense rolls.

Best Side Dishes for BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

When enjoying your BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls, consider pairing them with delicious side dishes that complement their sweetness. Here are some great options.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of cinnamon rolls.

2. Greek Yogurt Parfait – Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fruits for a refreshing, protein-packed side.

3. Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy scrambled eggs provide a savory contrast that pairs well with sweet cinnamon flavors.

4. Hash Browns – Crispy hash browns add texture and heartiness, making for a well-rounded breakfast.

5. Breakfast Sausage Links – Savory sausage links give a satisfying bite that complements the sweetness of the rolls.

6. Smoothie Bowl – A thick smoothie bowl topped with nuts and berries offers a nutritious side that’s visually appealing too.

7. Crispy Bacon Strips – The salty crunch of bacon contrasts beautifully with soft cinnamon rolls.

8. Coffee Cake Slices – Serve alongside slices of coffee cake for an indulgent brunch spread that satisfies sweet cravings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, but small mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Skipping the yeast proofing: Always ensure your instant yeast is active by mixing it with warm liquids before adding to the dough. This guarantees a perfect rise.
• Using too much flour: Adding too much flour can dry out your dough. Start with less and gradually add more until you achieve a soft, sticky consistency.
• Not letting the dough rest: Allowing the dough to rest is crucial for gluten relaxation. Skipping this step makes it harder to roll out and shape.
• Cutting rolls unevenly: Ensure each roll is cut uniformly for even baking. Use dental floss or a serrated knife for clean cuts without squishing.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Always preheat your oven and check that it’s at the correct temperature before baking. This helps achieve that golden-brown top everyone loves.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place rolls on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place one roll on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds. Add more time if needed.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid and heat for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these the BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls?

These rolls feature pillowy dough, rich cinnamon filling, and decadent cream cheese frosting that create an irresistible combination of flavors.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but start by using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for better texture.

How do I know when my cinnamon rolls have risen enough?

They should double in size during the final rise. They will look puffy and will be slightly touching each other when baked.

Can I make BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and fill it, then refrigerate overnight. Just let them rise before baking.

Final Thoughts

The BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile! You can customize them with various fillings like nuts or chocolate chips, or even change up the frosting. Whether for breakfast or dessert, they are sure to bring joy to any occasion. Try making them today!