Go Back
Deliciously baked timeless cinnamon rolls topped with icing
Print Pin

Classic Cinnamon Rolls

Classic Cinnamon Rolls are warm, fluffy rolls swirled with a rich cinnamon filling and topped with cream cheese icing, perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack.
Course Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Keyword Baking, Cinnamon, Cinnamon Rolls, Classic Recipe, comfort food
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 12 rolls
Calories 300kcal

Ingredients

Dough Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast 1 packet
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract

Cinnamon Filling

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted for spreading

Cream Cheese Icing

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract for icing
  • 2 tbsp milk for icing

Instructions

Preparation of Dough

  • In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir until yeast dissolves and allow to sit for 5 minutes until bubbly.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until combined.
  • Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise for about 1 hour until doubled in size.

Baking the Rolls

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • After rising, punch down the dough and roll out into a rectangular shape (16×12 inches).
  • Spread melted butter over the dough, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
  • Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice it into 12 pieces.
  • Place rolls in the greased baking dish, close together.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Preparing the Icing

  • While baking, prepare the cream cheese icing by beating together cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
  • Allow rolls to cool slightly, then spread icing on top. Serve warm.

Notes

For an even more decadent treat, consider adding chopped nuts or raisins to the cinnamon filling. You can also experiment with nutmeg or cardamom for added warmth. Best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, pair with fresh fruit or yogurt.