How to Make Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls at Home

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls filling your kitchen. These soft, fluffy, and buttery rolls are swirled with a delicious cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a rich, creamy glaze. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy treat with coffee, homemade cinnamon rolls are irresistibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make.

Follow this detailed step-by-step guide to make bakery-style cinnamon rolls from scratch!

Ingredients for Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

For the Dough:

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F or 45°C)
¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
1 large egg

For the Cinnamon Filling:

½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
¾ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons cinnamon
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

4 oz (½ cup) cream cheese (softened)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
¾ cup powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir lightly and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This means the yeast is activated.
Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, add flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with a dough hook for 5 minutes.
Let it Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Filling

In a bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until a thick paste forms.

Step 3: Assemble the Cinnamon Rolls

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a 14x10-inch rectangle.
Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log.
Cut into 12 equal slices using a sharp knife or floss.
Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving space for them to expand.

Step 4: Second Rise & Bake

Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

source

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

In a bowl, beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
Spread the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls for a gooey, delicious finish.

source

Serving & Storing Tips

Serve warm for the best taste!
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Reheat in the microwave for 15 seconds to restore softness.

Customizations & Variations

Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling.
Extra Caramelized Flavor: Drizzle caramel sauce on top before serving.
Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips to the filling for a sweet surprise.

source

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Soft, fluffy, and rich in cinnamon flavor
✅ Perfectly gooey with a creamy glaze
✅ Better than store-bought – homemade with love
✅ Great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert

Make these homemade cinnamon rolls today and enjoy the warm, comforting taste of this classic treat!

source