Soft and Gooey Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

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There’s something truly magical about the smell of cinnamon rolls baking in the oven—it instantly warms the soul and promises a delicious treat. Whether it’s a cozy morning or a special dessert moment, these classic cinnamon rolls are soft, fluffy, and swirled with a rich cinnamon-sugar filling, all topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime you crave something sweet and comforting.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 45°C)

  • 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast

  • 2 large eggs, room temperature

  • ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • 1 tsp salt

For the Filling:

  • ⅔ cup brown sugar, packed

  • 2 ½ tbsp ground cinnamon

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

  • 4 oz (½ block) cream cheese, softened

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 cup powdered sugar

  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

  • 1–2 tbsp milk (to thin as needed)

  • Instructions:

    1. Activate the Yeast
      In a large bowl, mix warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

    2. Make the Dough
      Add eggs, melted butter, sugar, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir in flour gradually until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic (or 5 minutes in a stand mixer with a dough hook).

    3. First Rise
      Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

    4. Prepare the Filling
      Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.

    5. Roll and Fill
      Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a 16×12 inch rectangle. Spread softened butter on top, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly.

    6. Shape Rolls
      Roll the dough up tightly from the long side. Cut into 12 even pieces and place in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

    7. Second Rise
      Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

    8. Bake
      Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes or until lightly golden.

    9. Make the Glaze
      Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk to reach desired consistency.

    10. Frost and Serve
      Spread glaze over warm rolls and serve immediately!

    11. Tips:

      • For overnight rolls: After shaping, cover and refrigerate. Let come to room temperature and rise before baking in the morning.

      • Add chopped pecans or raisins for a twist!

      Would you like a gluten-free version too?

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