BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

The BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate indulgence for any occasion! With their soft and fluffy dough, sweet cinnamon filling, and rich cream cheese frosting, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful dessert. Their irresistible aroma will fill your kitchen, making them a favorite among family and friends. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy weekend treat, these cinnamon rolls stand out as a heartwarming addition to any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is straightforward and perfect for beginners.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and buttery sweetness creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Treat: Serve these rolls warm for breakfast or as a dessert after dinner; they fit any occasion perfectly!
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight for an effortless morning treat.
• Gooey Icing: The cream cheese frosting adds an extra layer of decadence that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve the perfect thickness for rolling out the dough evenly.
• Electric mixer: Makes mixing icing easy and ensures a smooth consistency.

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: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the starting amount of flour (3 cups), sugar, yeast, and salt. Whisk together until well mixed and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In a medium microwave-safe bowl or cup, combine water, milk, and sliced butter. Microwave in bursts of ten seconds until the butter just melts. Ensure the mixture feels warm but not hot. Alternatively, you can heat it over low heat on the stove.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients with Egg

Whisk the egg into the warm water mixture until fully combined.

Step 4: Make Dough

Pour the wet ingredients over the dry mixture. Use a wooden spoon to mix until you form a thick and sticky dough.

Step 5: Add More Flour

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

Step 6: Knead Dough

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface or in your bowl. Add flour as needed to prevent sticking until smooth and elastic. If poked, it should spring back.

Step 7: Rest Dough

Cover the kneaded dough with a clean cloth and let it rest for about twenty minutes. It will puff slightly but won’t double in size.

Step 8: Roll Out Dough

Transfer rested dough onto a floured surface. Roll it into roughly a rectangle measuring about 14×10 inches.

Step 9: Add Filling

Spread softened butter over the rolled-out dough while leaving about half an inch from the edges. Sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over it followed by ground cinnamon.

Step 10: Form Log

From one longer side of the rectangle, roll up tightly into a log shape.

Step 11: Trim Ends

Cut about half an inch off each end of your roll for uniformity; this step is optional but improves appearance.

Step 12: Cut Rolls

Using either a sharp serrated knife or unflavored dental floss, cut your log into twelve even pieces using gentle sawing motions with the knife or pulling with floss.

Step 13: Arrange Rolls

Place cut side up in a greased baking dish ensuring there is slight space between each roll; they can touch but should not be overcrowded.

Step 14: Second Rise

Cover rolls again and let rise in a warm area for approximately forty-five minutes or until nearly doubled in size.

Step 15: Bake Rolls

Uncover your rolls and bake them in preheated oven at around375°F (190°C) for twenty-five to thirty minutes until golden brown on top.

Step 16: Make Icing

In another medium bowl, mix cream cheese frosting ingredients until smooth using an electric mixer or wooden spoon by hand; start slow then increase speed.

Step 17: Frost Warm Rolls

Once baked rolls have cooled slightly but are still warm, spread icing generously on top allowing it to melt into every crevice!

Enjoy these delightful rolls warm from the oven!

How to Serve BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Serving your BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls can turn a simple treat into an unforgettable experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your enjoyment.

With Fresh Fruits

• Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the rolls.
• Bananas: Sliced bananas complement the cinnamon flavor and make for a filling breakfast option.

Drizzled with Extra Icing

• Cream Cheese Icing: For those who can’t get enough sweetness, an additional drizzle of cream cheese icing takes it over the top.
• Caramel Sauce: A warm caramel drizzle adds another layer of indulgence that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.

Accompanied by Beverages

• Coffee: A hot cup of coffee balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor experience.
• Milk: Classic and comforting, a glass of cold milk is perfect for dipping or enjoying alongside the rolls.

Topped with Nuts

• Chopped Pecans: Toasted pecans provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft rolls.
• Walnuts: Chopped walnuts offer an earthy flavor that complements the cinnamon perfectly.

Best Side Dishes for BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing your BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with delicious side dishes can elevate any meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance out the sweet rolls perfectly.
2. Bacon or Sausage: Crispy bacon or savory sausage adds a savory touch that pairs well with sweet treats.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brightens up the plate and adds color.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruits offers creaminess and crunch alongside your cinnamon rolls.
5. Hash Browns: Golden, crispy hash browns bring a satisfying crunch that complements soft cinnamon rolls.
6. Smoothie Bowl: Blend up a smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds for a nutritious side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can hinder your success.

• Ignoring dough temperature: Always ensure your wet ingredients are warm, not hot. Hot liquids can kill the yeast, leading to dense rolls.
• Not measuring flour accurately: Spoon and level your flour rather than scooping directly from the bag. This prevents adding too much flour, which makes the dough dry.
• Skipping the resting period: Allowing the dough to rest for about 20 minutes is crucial. This relaxes gluten and makes it easier to roll out.
• Overbaking or underbaking: Keep an eye on your rolls while baking. They should be golden brown on top; undercooked rolls will be doughy, while overcooked ones will be tough.
• Using cold ingredients: Ensure your egg and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smooth frosting and better dough consistency.
• Not letting rolls rise enough: Give your rolled cinnamon rolls enough time to rise until they double in size for that fluffy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and 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). Cover with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Warm each roll for 15-20 seconds until soft. Be cautious as they can become chewy if overheated.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a covered skillet on low heat for about 5-10 minutes. Add a splash of water to create steam.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to making the BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls.

What makes these the BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls?

These cinnamon rolls are fluffy and soft thanks to a carefully crafted dough that rises perfectly. The sweet filling and cream cheese frosting add irresistible flavor.

Can I make this homemade cinnamon rolls recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough up until shaping the rolls, refrigerate it overnight, then let it come to room temperature before baking.

How do I customize my BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls?

Feel free to add nuts, raisins, or even different spices like nutmeg or cardamom into the filling for added flavor.

What if I don’t have instant yeast?

You can use active dry yeast instead. Just activate it in warm water with sugar before mixing it with other ingredients.

How should I store my leftover cinnamon rolls?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

The BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls offer not only a comforting treat but also endless customization options. Whether you prefer classic flavors or want to experiment with new fillings, these cinnamon rolls are sure to please everyone. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the warm, delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen!