Homemade cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that can elevate any morning. They fill your kitchen with a warm, sweet aroma, and nothing beats the taste of freshly baked rolls. This recipe combines simplicity with deliciousness, making it a perfect choice for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. The soft, fluffy dough paired with rich cinnamon and sugary filling gives you a comforting bite every time.

How to Make BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients

• 4-5 cups (520g-650g) 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
• 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 4 oz (115g) full fat block cream cheese, room temperature
• 5 tablespoons (70g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 1/2 cups (195g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine 3 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Whisk to mix and set aside.
2. In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine water, milk, and sliced butter. Microwave in 10-second bursts until the butter melts and the mixture feels warm.
3. Whisk the egg into the warm water mixture.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry flour mixture. Use a wooden spoon to mix until you form a thick and sticky dough.
5. Add 1 cup of flour to the dough and mix until it starts to become a ball.
6. Knead the dough on a floured surface, adding flour as needed, until smooth and elastic. The dough should spring back when poked.
7. Cover the dough and let it rest for about 20 minutes to relax the gluten.
8. Roll out the rested dough into a 14×10 inch rectangle.
9. Spread the softened butter over the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border. Sprinkle sugar and then cinnamon evenly on top.
10. Roll the dough from the long side into a log shape.
11. Cut about 1/2 inch off each end for uniform rolls, if desired.
12. Cut the log into 12 even rolls using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss.
13. Place the rolls cut side up in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish leaving some space between them.
14. Cover and let the rolls rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes or until they double in size.
15. Bake in a preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown.
16. While the rolls cool, mix the icing ingredients until smooth.
17. Spread the icing on the warm rolls for a gooey finish!

How to Serve BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Serve these cinnamon rolls warm for the best experience. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a nice cup of coffee or tea. You can add a dash of extra icing on top for those who like it sweet!

How to Store BEST Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 2 months. If freezing, wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.