The Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe Ever

Imagine pulling a tray of warm, gooey, and fluffy cinnamon rolls straight out of the oven. The scent of cinnamon and butter fills your kitchen, making it feel like a cozy bakery. Whether you’re a beginner or a baking pro, this homemade cinnamon roll recipe is foolproof and absolutely delicious!

If you love homemade Homemade Cinnamon Rolls, you might also enjoy this Rhodes Cinnamon Rolls as a savory alternative.

Ingredients for the Best Cinnamon Rolls

Essential Ingredients and Their Roles

The secret to the best cinnamon rolls lies in the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

The Secret to Soft and Fluffy Dough

The key to light and fluffy cinnamon rolls is proper kneading and proofing. Make sure you knead the dough for at least 8–10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Also, allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1–2 hours until it doubles in size.

Pro Tip: Cover the dough with a damp towel to prevent it from drying out while it rises.

Why Heavy Cream Makes a Difference

Have you ever wondered why Cinnabon’s cinnamon rolls are so gooey? The secret is pouring warm heavy cream over the rolls just before baking. This keeps them soft, moist, and irresistibly delicious.

Try this trick, and you’ll never go back to dry cinnamon rolls again!

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch

Making homemade cinnamon rolls might seem intimidating, but with the right steps, you’ll have soft, gooey rolls that taste like they came from a bakery. Let’s go through the process step by step.

Preparing the Perfect Dough

The foundation of any great cinnamon roll is the dough. It needs to be soft, stretchy, and slightly sticky for that perfect fluffy texture.

Here’s what you’ll need:

1. In a bowl, mix the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add the melted butter, eggs, and salt, stirring until combined.
3. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
5. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, covering it with a damp cloth.

Pro Tip: If the dough feels too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time. If it’s too dry, add a splash of milk.

Letting the Dough Rise: Proofing Tips

Proofing allows the yeast to work its magic, making the dough light and fluffy.

• Place the bowl in a warm, draft-free spot (like inside an oven with the light on).
• Let it rise for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
• If your dough isn’t rising, check that your yeast is fresh and that the room temperature isn’t too cold.

Making the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

While the dough rises, prepare the delicious cinnamon sugar filling:

1. Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
2. Spread the softened butter over the rolled-out dough.
3. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top.

Pro Tip: For extra gooey rolls, drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup over the cinnamon sugar before rolling up the dough.

Rolling, Cutting, and Shaping the Rolls

Now it’s time to shape your cinnamon rolls:

1. Roll the dough into a large rectangle (about ¼-inch thick).
2. Spread the filling evenly, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough into a tight log.
4. Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut 12 even rolls.

Place the rolls in a buttered baking dish, ensuring they have a little space between them to expand.

Pro Tip: Using dental floss instead of a knife prevents squishing the dough when slicing.

Baking to Perfection: Oven Temperature & Timing

Follow these steps for perfectly baked cinnamon rolls:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• For extra softness, pour warm heavy cream over the rolls before baking.
• Bake for 18–22 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
• If the tops brown too fast, cover with foil halfway through baking.

Pro Tip: The rolls should be soft and slightly gooey in the center—don’t overbake!

The Best Cinnamon Roll Glaze: Cream Cheese Frosting

A cinnamon roll isn’t complete without a rich, creamy glaze. Here’s a simple recipe:

1. Beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar.
3. Add vanilla extract and milk until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Spread the glaze over warm cinnamon rolls.

Pro Tip: For an extra touch, add a pinch of cinnamon or a drizzle of maple syrup to the frosting.

Pair these delicious cinnamon rolls with a cozy drink like this French Hot Chocolate for the ultimate indulgence!

Common Cinnamon Roll Problems and How to Fix Them

Why Did My Cinnamon Rolls Turn Out Hard?

If your rolls are tough or dry, it’s likely due to over-kneading or not enough moisture in the dough. Always ensure the dough is soft before letting it rise.

My Dough Didn’t Rise – What Went Wrong?

The most common reason for dough not rising is dead yeast. Always check the expiration date and proof your yeast before mixing it with flour.

How to Prevent Cinnamon Rolls from Being Dry

To keep cinnamon rolls soft:

• Use warm heavy cream over the rolls before baking.
• Don’t overbake—18–22 minutes at 350°F is ideal.
• Cover freshly baked rolls with foil if storing overnight.

Want another indulgent dessert? Check out this Brookie Recipe for a mix of brownies and cookies!

Expert Tips for the Softest and Fluffiest Cinnamon Rolls

How Long to Knead the Dough for Best Results

Kneading is key to a perfect texture. Too little, and the rolls will be dense. Too much, and they become chewy.

• For best results, knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Use the windowpane test: Stretch a small piece of dough—if it forms a thin, see-through layer without tearing, it’s ready!

The Best Way to Roll and Cut Cinnamon Rolls Evenly

To get perfectly shaped rolls, try these techniques:

• Use unflavored dental floss instead of a knife to cut even rolls without squishing them.
• Mark the dough with light cuts before slicing to ensure even portions.
• Roll the dough tightly but gently—too loose and the rolls will unravel, too tight and they won’t rise properly.

How to Store and Reheat Cinnamon Rolls Without Drying Out

Want to enjoy your cinnamon rolls later? Here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days (covered tightly).
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days—warm in the microwave for 15–20 seconds before eating.
• Freeze unbaked rolls for up to 2 months—just thaw and bake when ready!

Want another easy, homemade baked good? Try this 4-Ingredient Banana Bread for a simple but delicious treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Dirty Cinnamon Roll?

A dirty cinnamon roll is an indulgent twist on the classic, typically featuring extra filling, more glaze, and sometimes a streusel topping for added crunch.

What’s the Difference Between a Cinnabon and a Cinnamon Roll?

The main difference is the dough and the frosting. Cinnabon rolls use a richer dough with a specific type of cinnamon (Makara cinnamon) and a signature cream cheese frosting that makes them extra gooey.

Why Put Heavy Cream on Cinnamon Rolls Before Baking?

Pouring warm heavy cream over the rolls before baking keeps them moist, soft, and gooey. The cream absorbs into the dough, preventing it from drying out.

What is the Cinnabon Secret Ingredient?

The secret is Makara cinnamon—a special type of cinnamon that’s sweeter and more aromatic than regular varieties.

Final Thoughts: Why This is the Best Cinnamon Roll Recipe Ever

Now that you know how to make soft, fluffy, and gooey cinnamon rolls, it’s time to give them a try! Whether you keep it classic or try a fun variation, these rolls will be a hit every time.

Pair your warm cinnamon rolls with a comforting drink like this French Hot Chocolate for the ultimate treat.

Happy baking!

Cinnamon Rolls

Print Recipe

Make the softest, gooiest homemade cinnamon rolls with this easy step-by-step recipe! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these cinnamon rolls are packed with a rich cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a creamy, sweet glaze. A foolproof recipe for beginners and baking lovers!

• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 rolls 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Dough:

• 1 cup whole milk (warmed to 110°F)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 eggs
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
• ½ cup butter (softened)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp milk

Instructions

• Make the Dough: In a bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. Add melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms.
• Knead the Dough: Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
• Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
• Roll and Fill: Roll the dough into a large rectangle (¼-inch thick). Spread softened butter over the dough and sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar mixture.
• Shape the Rolls: Roll the dough tightly from the long edge. Cut into 12 even rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.
• Second Rise: Place rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for 30–45 minutes.
• Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour warm heavy cream over the rolls before baking for extra softness. Bake for 18–22 minutes until golden brown.
• Make the Glaze: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Mix in powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until creamy.
• Frost and Serve: Spread the glaze over warm cinnamon rolls. Enjoy!

Notes

• To make overnight cinnamon rolls, refrigerate the shaped rolls before the second rise. Let them sit at room temperature for 30–45 minutes before baking.
• Use unflavored dental floss to cut even rolls without squishing the dough.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter and milk alternatives.

• Author: Hana Bel
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Per Serving – 1 Cinnamon Roll
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: homemade cinnamon rolls, easy cinnamon rolls recipe, best cinnamon rolls, gooey cinnamon rolls, soft cinnamon rolls