Introduction

Cinnamon rolls are one of the most beloved pastries in the world. Their soft, pillowy dough wrapped around a sweet cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a luscious glaze makes them the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. This recipe will guide you step by step to make bakery-style cinnamon rolls at home that are rich, fluffy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk (not hot, about 110°F / 43°C)
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp salt

For the Filling:

• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2 ½ tbsp ground cinnamon
• Optional: ½ tsp nutmeg (for warmth)

For the Glaze/Icing:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp butter (melted)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2–3 tbsp milk or cream

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and 1 tbsp sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add softened butter, remaining sugar, eggs, and salt. Mix well.
3. Gradually add flour and knead until dough is soft and slightly sticky (about 8–10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes with a mixer).
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using) in a bowl.
2. Keep softened butter ready for spreading.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

1. Punch down risen dough and roll it into a rectangle (about 16×12 inches).
2. Spread butter evenly on top.
3. Sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture generously.
4. Roll up tightly from the long side into a log.
5. Cut into 12–14 rolls and place them in a greased round or rectangular baking pan.

Step 4: Second Rise

1. Cover rolls and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Step 5: Bake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake rolls for 22–27 minutes, until golden brown on top.
3. Remove and let cool slightly.

Step 6: Glaze

1. Whisk powdered sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
2. Drizzle over warm rolls.

Benefits

• Homemade & fresh: No preservatives or artificial flavors.
• Customizable: Add nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips.
• Comfort food: Perfect for family gatherings and holidays.

Variations

• Cream cheese frosting: Replace glaze with cream cheese icing.
• Nutty delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts.
• Apple cinnamon rolls: Add finely chopped apples inside the filling.

Nutrition (per roll, approx.)

• Calories: 320
• Carbs: 48g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 11g
• Sugar: 24g

Conclusion

These homemade cinnamon rolls are soft, fluffy, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or reheated the next day, they’re sure to bring warmth and joy to any table.