Classic Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

These Classic Cinnamon Rolls are soft, fluffy, and filled with a rich cinnamon-sugar swirl that melts into the dough as they bake. Finished with a smooth cream cheese frosting, they are perfect for breakfast, brunch, holidays, or anytime you want a comforting homemade treat. This recipe is carefully written step by step for reliable results every time.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk (not hot)

• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)

• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• ⅓ cup (80 g) melted butter (cooled)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 4½–5 cups (520–560 g) all-purpose flour

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• ½ cup (120 g) brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

• ⅓ cup (80 g) softened butter

For the Cream Cheese Frosting (optional but recommended):

• 4 oz (120 g) cream cheese, softened

• ¼ cup (60 g) butter, softened

• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Add the eggs, remaining sugar, melted butter, and salt. Mix well. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

Make the Filling

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon.

Roll the dough into a large rectangle (about 16×12 inches / 40×30 cm). Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Shape the Rolls

Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log. Cut into 9–12 even rolls using a sharp knife or kitchen string.

Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each one. Cover and let rise again for 30–40 minutes.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).

Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the rolls are lightly golden on top.

Make the Frosting

In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.

Spread the frosting over the rolls while they are still warm but not hot.

Serving Tips

• Best served warm

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature

• Reheat gently before serving if desired