Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the rolls in the pan, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake straight from the refrigerator, adding 5-10 minutes to baking time.

What can I substitute for cream cheese frosting?

A simple powdered sugar glaze works well - just mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla until smooth.

Why didn't my rolls rise properly?

This usually happens when the yeast is expired, the milk was too hot, or the room wasn't warm enough. Check expiration dates and temperatures.

Perfect Cinnamon Rolls

Introduction

There's nothing quite like the aroma of cinnamon rolls baking in your kitchen. These soft, pillowy rolls with their gooey buttery filling and creamy frosting are guaranteed to become a family favorite. This recipe yields perfectly tender cinnamon rolls that rival any bakery version.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
⅓ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

¾ cup packed brown sugar
2½ tablespoons ground cinnamon
⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

4 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
1½ cups powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1-2 tablespoons milk

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add sugar, eggs, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Add flour and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Turn onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

While the dough rises, mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. In another bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

Roll the dough into a 16×12 inch rectangle. Spread the butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Starting from the long side, roll tightly into a log. Cut into 12 equal pieces using dental floss or a sharp knife.

Step 5: Second Rise

Place rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Let cool for 5 minutes.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until desired consistency. Spread over warm rolls.

Tips for Success

Milk Temperature: Too hot will kill the yeast, too cool won't activate it. Aim for 110°F.
Kneading: Proper kneading develops gluten for the perfect texture.
Rising: Warm, draft-free environment helps dough rise properly.
Cutting: Dental floss gives cleaner cuts than knives.

Serving Suggestions

These cinnamon rolls are perfect for weekend brunch, special occasions, or as an indulgent breakfast treat. Serve warm with extra frosting on the side and a cup of coffee or tea.

Nutrition Information

Per roll:

Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fat: 14g