Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

These Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or any special occasion. Soft, fluffy, and slathered in a creamy icing, they bring warmth and joy to your kitchen. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just indulging on a weekend, these rolls will impress your family and friends with their delightful flavor and comforting aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have these cinnamon rolls ready in no time.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a warm, sweet filling that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them fresh from the oven or reheat them later for a cozy snack.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple breakfast, these rolls fit the bill.
• Creamy Icing Delight: The cream cheese icing adds an extra layer of richness that elevates each bite.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious cinnamon rolls, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spills.
• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out dough evenly to achieve perfect cinnamon rolls.
• Baking dish: A good baking dish ensures even cooking and golden-brown edges for your rolls.

Ingredients

These BEST EVER cinnamon rolls are soft, moist, fluffy, and topped with a silky cream cheese icing.

For the Dough

• 4 1/2 – 5 cups all purpose flour
• 1/3 cup (75g) granulated sugar
• 2 packets Fleischmann’s® RapidRise® Yeast (about 4 1/2 tsp)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 cups (355g) water
• 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter
• 1 large egg

For the Filling

• 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter, room temp
• 1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar, packed
• 1 tbsp cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Icing

• 4 oz cream cheese, room temp
• 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter, room temp
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

How to Make Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by combining warm water and yeast in a mixing bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. Then add sugar, salt, butter, egg, and flour gradually until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead it for about 5–7 minutes or until smooth. Place it in a greased bowl and cover with a towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about an hour.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough gently. Roll it out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick on a floured surface.

Step 4: Add Filling

Spread softened butter over the rolled-out dough. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon together then sprinkle evenly over the buttered dough.

Step 5: Roll Up and Cut

Starting from one long side of the rectangle, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape. Cut into equal pieces (about 12). Place them in a greased baking dish.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the rolls with plastic wrap or a towel again. Let them rise for an additional 30 minutes until puffy.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for about 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 8: Prepare Icing

While they bake, mix cream cheese frosting ingredients together until smooth. Spread over warm cinnamon rolls before serving.

Now enjoy your delicious Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls fresh from the oven!

How to Serve Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

These Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for any occasion and can be enjoyed in various delicious ways. Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls will impress everyone at your table.

With Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Pair your cinnamon rolls with a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
• Bananas: Sliced bananas add a sweet creaminess that complements the warm cinnamon flavor.

With Coffee or Tea

• Coffee: A strong cup of coffee elevates the experience of enjoying cinnamon rolls, making them an ideal morning treat.
• Herbal Tea: Chamomile or peppermint tea can provide a soothing balance to the sweet rolls.

Warm from the Oven

• Freshly Baked: Serve the rolls warm right out of the oven for that melt-in-your-mouth experience everyone loves.
• With Icing: Drizzle with cream cheese icing just before serving to enhance the flavor and presentation.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Brunch Buffet: Include these cinnamon rolls as part of a larger brunch spread with eggs, bacon, and salads for a delightful meal.
• Mini Rolls: Cut them into smaller pieces for easy sharing among guests at gatherings.

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How to Perfect Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

To ensure your Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh for optimal rise and fluffiness.
• Knead Well: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic; this helps develop gluten for better texture.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Let butter and cream cheese sit out to reach room temperature; this aids in blending smoothly.
• Don’t Rush Proofing: Allow enough time for the dough to rise until doubled; this is crucial for airy rolls.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures; this prevents under or overbaking.
• Add Extra Cinnamon Flavor: For more depth, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg along with cinnamon in the filling.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing your Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein and balance out the sweetness of the rolls.
2. Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon offers a savory contrast that enhances the overall taste experience.
3. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides freshness and cuts through the richness of the rolls.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy side that pairs beautifully with cinnamon flavors.
5. Hash Browns: Golden hash browns add texture and heartiness to your breakfast spread.
6. Green Smoothie: A nutritious green smoothie can provide vitamins while complementing the sweetness of cinnamon rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls can be delightful, but a few common mistakes can ruin your experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch for.

• Skipping the Proofing Step: Always allow the dough to rise properly. This step ensures your rolls are fluffy and light.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can hinder proper dough rising.
• Overworking the Dough: Knead gently until just combined. Over-kneading can lead to dense rolls instead of soft ones.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Use a scale or spoon-and-level method for accuracy. Too much flour will make your cinnamon rolls dry.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven correctly. A hot oven is essential for achieving that perfect golden crust.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.

Freezing Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes covered with foil.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm, but be cautious not to overdo it.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls so special?

These rolls are incredibly soft and fluffy with a rich flavor thanks to the combination of brown sugar and cinnamon. The cream cheese icing adds a delightful finish.

Can I make Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls without yeast?

Yes! You can use baking powder as a leavening agent instead of yeast for quicker preparation. However, the texture may differ slightly.

How long do Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls last?

When stored properly, they last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 2 months in the freezer.

Can I customize my Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips to the filling for extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for breakfast or brunch and can bring joy to any occasion. With their soft texture and sweet cream cheese icing, they’re sure to impress family and friends. Feel free to experiment with fillings or toppings based on your taste!