Classic Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
Soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls made from scratch, inspired by grandma’s timeless method but elevated with creative twists like espresso swirls or fruity fillings. Perfect for cozy mornings, brunch spreads, or dessert treats.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Total Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins
Course Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Cuisine American, South American
Servings 12 rolls
Calories 350 kcal
- 4 cups All-purpose flour Optional: replace ½ cup with bread flour for elasticity
- 2¼ tsp Active dry yeast Activate with warm milk & sugar
- 1 cup Whole milk Warmed; oat milk for dairy-free
- 4 tbsp Unsalted butter Melted for dough
- 4 tbsp Unsalted butter Softened for filling
- 2 – Eggs Room temperature
- ¾ cup Brown sugar For filling
- 1½ tbsp Ground cinnamon Ceylon or Cassia
- ½ tsp Salt For balance
- 4 –6 oz Cream cheese frosting Optional to spread on top
Warm the milk until lukewarm (not hot). Add yeast and 1 tbsp of sugar. Stir and let sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
In a large bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add milk mixture, eggs, and melted butter. Mix and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Cover bowl with a kitchen cloth. Let dough rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, until doubled in size.
Roll dough into a ¼-inch thick rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
Spread softened butter evenly. Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon all over.
Roll dough tightly into a log. Slice into 12 equal pieces.
Arrange rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes until puffed.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–28 minutes, until golden brown.
If desired, spread cream cheese frosting on warm rolls. Serve warm!
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For overnight prep: Refrigerate dough during first rise, or freeze unbaked shaped rolls. Thaw overnight and bake fresh.
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Flavor variations: Add espresso powder, citrus zest, nuts, or fruit fillings.
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Store baked rolls at room temp for 3 days or refrigerated for 7 days.
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Reheat rolls in microwave with a damp paper towel to restore softness.
Keyword cinnamon rolls, homemade cinnamon buns, brunch pastry, sweet rolls, classic cinnamon rolls