Forget the bakery, because today we’re bringing the bakery to you with this foolproof cinnamon roll recipe that promises fluffy dough, a gooey center, and a cinnamon-sugar crunch in every bite. Perfect for weekend brunches or a sweet treat any day of the week.
Why This Recipe Works
- The dough is made with warm milk and a touch of sugar to activate the yeast, ensuring a light and airy texture.
- A generous layer of cinnamon-sugar filling guarantees that every bite is packed with flavor.
- The cream cheese frosting is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, complementing the cinnamon rolls beautifully.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet instant yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup softened butter (for filling)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Equipment Needed
- Stand mixer with dough hook attachment
- Rolling pin
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and yeast. Add the warm milk, melted butter, egg, and salt. Using the dough hook, mix on medium speed until the dough comes together and is smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Step 2: Make the Filling
While the dough is rising, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside. Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a 16×12 inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Step 3: Roll and Cut
Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Using a sharp knife, cut into 12 equal pieces. Place the rolls cut side up in the prepared baking dish. Cover and let rise until puffy, about 30 minutes.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting by beating together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 5: Frost and Serve
Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for 5 minutes before spreading the frosting over the top. Serve warm and enjoy the ooey-gooey goodness.
Tips and Tricks
For the fluffiest rolls, make sure your milk is warm but not too hot to touch (about 110°F). If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast. When rolling out the dough, if it keeps shrinking back, let it rest for a few minutes to relax the gluten. For an extra gooey center, add a tablespoon of heavy cream over the rolls before baking. This creates a steam effect that makes the centers even more tender.
Recipe Variations
- Add a cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a crunchy texture.
- Swap the cream cheese frosting for a maple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with maple syrup and a splash of milk.
- For a fruity twist, spread a thin layer of apple butter or pumpkin butter under the cinnamon-sugar filling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! After the first rise, you can refrigerate the dough overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling out and proceeding with the recipe. This can actually enhance the flavor as the yeast has more time to develop.
Why didn’t my rolls rise?
There could be a few reasons, but the most common is that the yeast was old or the milk was too hot, which killed the yeast. Always check the expiration date on your yeast and ensure the milk is just warm to the touch.
Can I freeze the baked rolls?
Yes, you can freeze them either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the rolls and freeze them in the baking dish. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then let them rise before baking. For baked rolls, freeze without frosting and warm them up in the oven before serving.
Summary
This bakery-style cinnamon roll recipe is your ticket to fluffy, gooey, and utterly irresistible treats right from your own kitchen. With a few simple tips and tricks, you’ll be a cinnamon roll pro in no time.