How to Make Soft & Buttery Cinnamon Roll

Is there anything better than the smell of fresh-baked cinnamon rolls filling your kitchen? That warm, buttery aroma mixed with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg is pure magic. If you’ve ever wanted to make bakery-quality cinnamon rolls at home, this cinnamon roll recipe is for you!

These rolls are soft, fluffy, and have gooey cinnamon-sugar goodness. They’re finished with a rich cream cheese glaze that melts into every swirl, making each bite pure bliss. Interestingly, the origins of cinnamon rolls can be traced back to Northern Europe, particularly Sweden and Germany, where the cooler climate provided an ideal environment for baking, leading to their popularity, especially during the winter months. Ready to bake the best homemade cinnamon rolls of your life? Let’s get started!

How to Make Soft & Buttery Cinnamon Roll

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Rest Time: 1 hour | Cook Time: 30 minutes 

Servings: 12 Rolls | Course: Dessert

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• • • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
    • 2 teaspoons instant yeast
    • ¼ cup granulated sugar
    • ¾ cup warm milk (110°F)
    • ¼ cup warm water (110°F)
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
    • 2 large eggs

For the Filling:

• • • ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
    • 7 tablespoons brown sugar
    • ¼ cup ground cinnamon
    • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• • • 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
    • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
    • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
    • 1 pinch salt
    • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
    • 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
    • 2 tablespoons milk (more if needed for consistency)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Prepare your mixing bowl set because you'll need it! In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, cinnamon, sugar, and instant yeast, stirring to mix evenly. In a separate bowl, whisk together warm milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and warm water. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms—just the right texture for perfect cinnamon rolls!

Step 2: Knead and Let the Dough Rise

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, adding a little flour if needed. Place it in a greased mixing bowl, cover it with a cheesecloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in size—patience pays off with pillowy, bakery-worthy cinnamon rolls!

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined, then set aside—this aromatic blend is the key to that irresistibly gooey cinnamon-sugar filling!

Step 4: Roll and Fill the Dough

Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a ¼-inch-thick rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly across the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously on top.

Step 5: Roll, Cut, and Second Rise

Roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut it into 12 even pieces using a sharp knife or bench scraper for precision. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 6: Bake the Cinnamon Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, butter, vanilla, salt, lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of milk until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and continue mixing until fully combined. If needed, add extra milk for a thinner consistency.

Step 8: Frost and Serve

Drizzle the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Health Benefits of Cinnamon Rolls

Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants, helping to fight inflammation and support heart health. The yeast-fermented dough is gut-friendly, as fermentation can promote good digestion. Plus, homemade versions contain fewer preservatives since you control the ingredients. That being said, moderation is key! Pair your cinnamon roll with fresh fruit or a protein source like Greek yogurt to balance out your meal.

Make Your Own Cinnamon Roll Today!

There’s something special about making homemade cinnamon rolls from scratch—how the dough rises, the aroma of cinnamon filling the kitchen, and that first warm, gooey bite. These rolls are soft, buttery, and full of rich cinnamon-sugar goodness, making them a perfect choice for a cozy breakfast, a weekend brunch, or a comforting dessert.

Yes, baking from scratch takes time, but the reward is always worth it. If you try this recipe, we’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your experience in the comments, and if you snap a photo, tag @zulay_kitchen and use #kitchenhappiness on social media. There’s nothing better than sharing the joy of baking with others. Happy baking!

Kitchen Tools You Need

Make baking these cinnamon rolls a breeze with these must-have kitchen tools from Zulay Kitchen:

• Silicone Baking Mat – Prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
• Balloon Whisk – Helps create a smooth, lump-free glaze.
• Spatula Set – Useful for spreading fillings and scraping bowls efficiently.
• Lemon Squeezer – Ideal for adding fresh citrus juice to glazes or fillings.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Recipe

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes! If using active dry yeast, dissolve it in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy before adding it to the dough.

How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.

Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?

Absolutely! Bake the rolls as usual, let them cool, then wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.

How do I make cinnamon rolls without eggs?

You can replace eggs with ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce for moisture or use a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2 tablespoons water). Let the flax mixture sit for a few minutes until it thickens before adding it to the dough for the best texture.

What if I don’t have a rolling pin?

If you don’t have a rolling pin, a smooth glass bottle (like a wine or water bottle) works well. A rolling pin from Zulay Kitchen provides better control and even pressure, making it easier to roll out the dough to the perfect thickness for soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls.

Can I add nuts or raisins?

Absolutely! For extra texture and flavor, sprinkle ½ cup chopped pecans, walnuts, or raisins evenly over the cinnamon-sugar filling before rolling up the dough. Press them in slightly to prevent shifting while rolling, ensuring each bite has a delicious balance of warm spices, sweetness, and crunch.