How to Make Soft & Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls at Home
There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls filling your kitchen. Soft, fluffy dough swirled with buttery cinnamon sugar and topped with creamy icing—this classic treat is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dessert.
The good news? You don’t need to be a professional baker to make perfect homemade cinnamon rolls. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process, from making the dough to glazing the rolls like a pro.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dough
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup warm milk (not hot)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
For the Cinnamon Filling
½ cup brown sugar (packed)
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons butter, softened
¾ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1–2 tablespoons milk (as needed)
Step-by-Step Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until slightly foamy. Add the melted butter, egg, and salt. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with a dough hook for about 6 minutes.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Filling
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.
Step 4: Roll and Fill
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 14×9 inches). Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously on top.
Step 5: Shape the Rolls
Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut into 9–12 equal slices using a sharp knife or dental floss. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each one.
Cover and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown on top and soft in the center.
How to Make the Cream Cheese Glaze
While the rolls are baking, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then slowly mix in milk until the glaze reaches a pourable consistency.
Spread the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls so it melts beautifully into every swirl.
Tips for the Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
Use warm, not hot milk to activate yeast properly
Don’t over-flour the dough—it should be soft and slightly sticky
Let the rolls rise fully for extra fluffiness
Frost while warm for maximum flavor absorption
Serving & Storage Suggestions
Serve cinnamon rolls warm with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or refrigerated for 5 days. Reheat briefly before serving.
Final Thoughts
Making homemade cinnamon rolls is easier than you think—and the results are absolutely worth it. Soft, gooey, sweet, and comforting, this recipe is perfect for weekends, holidays, or anytime you’re craving something special.
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