Irresistibly soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls with a gooey center and luscious cream cheese frosting, these homemade cinnamon rolls are the ultimate breakfast or dessert treat. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, weekend brunch, or just because, this detailed guide walks you through every step of the process. From ingredients and preparation to pro tips and nutritional details, this is your go-to recipe for cinnamon roll perfection.
 Ingredients (US Measurements)
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 2 large eggs
- â…“ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 to 1½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
 Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a medium bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Add the eggs, granulated sugar, melted butter, and salt. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5–7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Ensure the butter is softened to spread easily on the dough later.
3. Assemble the Cinnamon Rolls:
- Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release air.
- Roll the dough out into a 16×12-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread the softened butter evenly across the surface of the dough.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
- Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log.
- Use unflavored dental floss or a sharp knife to cut the log into 12 even rolls.
- Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cover with plastic wrap or a towel and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes.
4. Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25–30 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.
- Let them cool slightly in the pan before frosting.
5. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Beat until the frosting is fluffy and fully combined.
6. Frost and Serve:
- Spread the frosting generously over the warm cinnamon rolls.
- Serve immediately for the ultimate gooey, warm, and fluffy experience.
 Prep Time & Calories
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rise Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 2.5 to 3 hours
- Calories: Approx. 350–400 kcal per roll (based on 12 servings)
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls
1. Use Warm Milk (Not Hot!)
Milk should be around 110°F—warm to the touch but not hot. Hot milk can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising properly.
2. Give Yeast Time to Bloom
Letting the yeast activate in warm milk ensures a fluffy texture. If it doesn’t bubble, your yeast may be expired.
3. Don’t Skimp on the Kneading
Kneading helps develop the gluten structure, creating that chewy yet soft texture. Aim for 5–7 minutes.
4. Even Filling Distribution
Spread the cinnamon sugar evenly to make sure every bite has that sweet, spiced flavor.
5. Clean Cuts with Floss
Use unflavored dental floss instead of a knife to cut clean rolls without squishing the dough.
6. Overnight Option
After assembling the rolls, cover and refrigerate overnight. Let them rise in the morning for 1 hour before baking.
7. Make-Ahead and Freezing
Bake and freeze cinnamon rolls for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 300°F until warm.
8. Custom Frosting
Prefer vanilla icing or glaze? Swap cream cheese frosting for a simple mix of powdered sugar and milk.
9. Add-Ins
Chopped nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips can be added to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
10. Storage
Store any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for 5 days. Reheat before serving.