Description
This easy one-hour cinnamon rolls recipe delivers soft, fluffy rolls swirled with a rich cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a creamy, sweet cream cheese glaze. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch, these cinnamon rolls come together quickly using simple ingredients and minimal rise time, making them a convenient homemade treat everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
Glaze
- 4 oz (1/2 cup) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp milk (to thin as needed)
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Stir in the warm milk, melted butter, and egg until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic, or use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for the same amount of time.
- Let the Dough Rest: Cover the kneaded dough and let it rest for 10 minutes to relax the gluten and prepare it for rolling.
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
- Roll and Fill: Roll the rested dough out on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
- Roll and Cut: Starting from one of the long edges, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice the roll into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the cinnamon roll slices cut side up into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each.
- Rise and Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Let the rolls rest briefly while the oven heats, then bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
- Make the Glaze: While the rolls bake, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk as needed to achieve a smooth, pourable glaze.
- Glaze and Serve: Remove the warm rolls from the oven and immediately drizzle or spread the cream cheese glaze over the top. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the milk is warm but not hot to activate yeast effectively without killing it.
- Kneading helps develop gluten, giving the rolls their light texture.
- The 10-minute rest period is shorter than traditional cinnamon rolls but is adequate for this quick recipe.
- Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the rolls cleanly without squashing them.
- The glaze is optional but highly recommended for added sweetness and creaminess.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the filling if desired.
- Store leftover rolls covered at room temperature for 1-2 days or freeze for longer storage.
