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Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Icing

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Icing

Soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls filled with a gooey cinnamon sugar mixture and topped with creamy icing. These homemade treats are perfect for breakfast or dessert, offering a comforting blend of warm spices and sweet flavors.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 Rolls
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Stand mixer with dough hook For kneading dough efficiently; can be done by hand if needed.
  • 1 Rolling Pin For rolling out dough to an even thickness.
  • 1 Offset spatula For spreading butter and filling evenly across the dough.
  • 1 Baking dish (9x13 inches) Grease lightly to prevent sticking.
  • 1 Mixing Bowls For preparing dough, filling, and icing.
  • 1 Plastic Wrap To cover dough during rising.

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients

  • 4 cups All-purpose flour Sifted for lighter texture.
  • 1 packet Active dry yeast About 2 ¼ tsp; Red Star Yeast or Platinum Yeast works well.
  • 1 cup Whole milk (warmed) Should be lukewarm, not hot, to activate yeast.
  • ½ cup Granulated sugar Sweetens the dough and feeds the yeast.
  • ½ cup Unsalted butter (softened) Adds richness and moisture.
  • 2 large Eggs Room temperature for better incorporation.
  • 1 tsp Salt Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.

Filling Ingredients

  • ¾ cup Light brown sugar Provides moisture and caramel notes.
  • 2-3 tbsp Ground cinnamon Adjust to taste; use high-quality cinnamon for best results.
  • ¼ cup Unsalted butter (softened) Spreads easily and helps adhere filling to dough.

Classic Cream Cheese Icing Ingredients

  • 4 oz Cream cheese (softened) Avoid cold cream cheese to prevent lumps.
  • 4 tbsp Unsalted butter (softened) Adds richness and smoothness.
  • 1-2 cups Powdered sugar Sift before adding for a lump-free consistency.
  • ½ tsp Vanilla extract Enhances flavor.
  • Optional 1-2 tbsp Milk or heavy cream to adjust consistency.

Simple Vanilla Icing Ingredients

  • 2 cups Powdered sugar Sifted for smooth texture.
  • ¼ cup Unsalted butter (melted) Adds richness and helps bind ingredients.
  • 2-3 tbsp Milk or heavy cream Adjusts thickness; use more for glaze-like consistency.
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract Adds warmth and aroma.

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Recipe

    Prepare the Dough:

    • In a mixing bowl, dissolve active dry yeast in warm water (about 110°F). Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
    • Add warmed milk, granulated sugar, salt, eggs, and softened butter. Mix until combined.
    • Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead using a stand mixer with a dough hook (or by hand) for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
    • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for 1.5–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

    Make the Filling:

    • In a small bowl, mix light brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside.

    Shape and Fill the Rolls:

    • Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a 16×10-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
    • Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
    • Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the buttered dough.
    • Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the long edge closest to you. Pinch the seam closed and trim uneven ends.
    • Slice the log into 8–12 equal pieces and place them spiral-side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Leave space between rolls for expansion.

    Second Rise and Bake:

    • Cover the rolls with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let rise for 30–45 minutes, or until puffy.
    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

    Prepare the Icing:

    • For Cream Cheese Icing, beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Adjust consistency with milk or cream as needed.
    • For Vanilla Icing, whisk melted butter, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk for a thinner glaze.

    Assemble and Serve:

    • Spread or drizzle the icing over slightly cooled rolls. Allow the icing to melt into the layers for extra sweetness. Serve warm.

    Notes

      • Storage: Store rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
      • Make-Ahead Option: Shape and refrigerate unbaked rolls overnight. Bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
      • Flavor Variations: Add maple syrup, lemon zest, pumpkin puree, or caramel sauce to the icing for unique twists.
     
     

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. How can one achieve perfectly moist cinnamon rolls?
      • Use the right balance of wet ingredients like whole milk, butter, and eggs. Proof the dough properly and bake at the correct temperature to avoid drying out.
       
    2. What ingredients are necessary for making cinnamon rolls from scratch?
      • Flour, sugar, yeast, butter, whole milk, eggs, and cinnamon are essential for classic cinnamon rolls.
       
    3. Is there an alternative icing recipe for cinnamon rolls without cream cheese?
      • Yes, a simple vanilla glaze made with powdered sugar, melted butter, and milk is a great alternative.
       
    4. What are the key steps to making easy cinnamon roll icing?
      • Beat softened butter and cream cheese (if using), add powdered sugar gradually, and mix in vanilla extract. Adjust consistency with milk.
       
    5. Can you suggest a cinnamon roll frosting that incorporates cream cheese?
      • Combine softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Thin with milk for spreading or drizzling.
       
    6. What are some tips for creating the best homemade cinnamon rolls?
      • Use softened ingredients, allow rolls to cool slightly before icing, and store icing in the fridge for improved flavor and texture.
     
     

    Tips & Tricks

    • Flavor Enhancement: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the dough for a subtle spice kick.
    • Presentation: Drizzle icing decoratively over the rolls for a polished look. Garnish with chopped nuts or sprinkles for added flair.
    • Leftovers: Reheat leftover rolls wrapped in foil at 300°F for 10–15 minutes to restore softness.
     
     

    Plating and Garnishing

    • Garnish: Sprinkle toasted pecans, cinnamon sugar, or a dusting of powdered sugar for added visual appeal.
    • Serving Style: Arrange rolls neatly on a plate or platter with garnishes like fresh berries or mint leaves.
    • Sides: Serve alongside coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk for a cozy breakfast or dessert experience.
    Keyword Cinnamon Rolls, Cream Cheese Icing, Homemade Pastries