Cinnamon Roll Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to Soft, Fluffy Rolls

If you’re searching for the perfect cinnamon roll recipe, you’ve just found it. These homemade rolls are soft, gooey, and topped with a sweet glaze. In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to make cinnamon rolls from scratch—even if you’re a beginner baker.

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Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Recipe

• Soft and fluffy texture thanks to a rich dough.

• Homemade flavor you can’t get from store-bought rolls.

• Customizable with different fillings and toppings.

• Beginner-friendly step-by-step instructions.

Whether you want a holiday breakfast treat or a weekend baking project, these rolls are always a hit.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what makes the perfect cinnamon roll dough and filling:

For the Dough

• 4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast

• 1 cup warm milk

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tsp salt

• 2 large eggs

• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Filling

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup brown sugar

• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2 tbsp milk

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

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Step-by-Step: How to Make Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Warm the milk until it’s slightly above room temperature.

2. Mix the warm milk, yeast, and sugar in a large bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

3. Add eggs, butter, and salt. Gradually stir in the flour until a dough forms.

4. Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

👉 Pro Tip: If the dough feels sticky, add a little extra flour.

Step 2: First Rise

• Place the dough in a greased bowl.

• Cover with a clean towel and let rise in a warm spot for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

1. Punch down the dough and roll it into a rectangle (about 16x12 inches).

2. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough.

3. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

• Roll the dough tightly into a log.

• Slice into 12 even pieces.

• Place them in a greased baking dish.

Step 5: Second Rise

• Cover the pan and let the rolls rise again for 30–45 minutes.

• They should puff up nicely.

Step 6: Bake

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.

Step 7: Glaze and Serve

• Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.

• Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.

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Expert Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls

• Don’t rush the rise: The dough needs time to become fluffy.

• Use room temperature butter for spreading—it blends better with the sugar.

• Cut evenly: Use dental floss instead of a knife for perfect slices.

• Bake until golden: Overbaking can make the rolls dry.

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Variations to Try

• Cream Cheese Frosting: Replace glaze with cream cheese frosting for a richer flavor.

• Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling.

• Apple Cinnamon Rolls: Add small apple chunks for a fruity version.

• Overnight Cinnamon Rolls: Prepare ahead and let rise in the fridge overnight.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Dough too dry: Don’t add too much flour.

• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the rolls at the 25-minute mark.

• Skipping the second rise: This makes the rolls dense instead of fluffy.

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FAQ About Cinnamon Rolls

1. Can I make cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare them the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning.

2. Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?

Absolutely. Bake them without glaze, freeze, and reheat when needed.

3. How do I keep cinnamon rolls soft?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

4. What if I don’t have instant yeast?

You can use active dry yeast—just let it activate in warm milk and sugar for 10 minutes.

5. Can I make cinnamon rolls without eggs?

Yes, substitute with ¼ cup applesauce or yogurt per egg.

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Final Thoughts

Making cinnamon rolls from scratch may seem intimidating, but once you try this recipe, you’ll see how simple and rewarding it is. With a soft dough, sweet cinnamon filling, and irresistible glaze, this is the only cinnamon roll recipe you’ll ever need. Perfect for holidays, brunch, or any time you crave comfort food.