The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is the ultimate treat for any occasion. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and filled with a perfect blend of cinnamon and sugar. Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, they make for an irresistible dessert or snack. Whether it’s a family gathering, holiday celebration, or just a cozy weekend brunch, these cinnamon rolls will impress everyone at your table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Pillowy Soft Texture: The dough rises beautifully, resulting in incredibly soft rolls that melt in your mouth.
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The balance of cinnamon and sugar filling, paired with creamy frosting, creates a flavor explosion.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Share them at gatherings or enjoy them on lazy mornings.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, even novice bakers can achieve bakery-quality results.
- Make Ahead Option: Prepare the dough ahead of time and bake fresh rolls whenever you crave them.
Tools and Preparation
To ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Below are some tools you’ll need to create these delicious cinnamon rolls.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: A stand mixer makes kneading the dough effortless, ensuring a perfect texture without much manual effort.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple mixing bowls allows you to easily combine ingredients separately before mixing everything together.
- Rolling pin: A rolling pin helps flatten the dough evenly, which is crucial for achieving consistent roll sizes.
- Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet ensures even baking and browning of your cinnamon rolls.
Ingredients
The best easy cinnamon rolls made with pillowy soft bread, the perfect amount of cinnamon sugar filling, and a luscious cream cheese frosting.
For the Dough
- 1 1/3 cup whole milk (320g)
- 4 teaspoons active dry yeast (or instant yeast)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
- 5 cups all purpose flour (650g)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (113g)
For the Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (113g)
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed (200g)
- 2 tbsp cinnamon powder
- 3/4 tsp salt
For the Frosting
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (120g), room temp
- 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature (113g)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (56g)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (60g)
- 1 cup icing sugar (100g)
How to Make The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by warming the milk in a small saucepan until it’s warm but not hot to touch. Remove from heat and add yeast and granulated sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine flour and salt. Gradually add in the yeast mixture along with eggs and softened butter. Mix on low speed until combined.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Increase mixer speed to medium and knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand, turn out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
In another bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon powder, and softened butter until well combined.
Step 6: Roll Out Dough
Once dough has risen, punch it down gently. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll into a rectangle about 16×12 inches.
Step 7: Add Filling
Spread the filling mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough. Starting from one long side, roll up tightly into a log shape.
Step 8: Cut Rolls
Slice the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.
Step 9: Second Rise
Place rolls in a greased baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover again and let rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.
Step 10: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once preheated, bake rolls for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 11: Make Frosting
While rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese, unsalted butter, heavy cream, icing sugar until smooth.
Step 12: Frost & Serve
After baking, let cool slightly before spreading frosting generously over warm cinnamon rolls. Enjoy!
How to Serve The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Serving cinnamon rolls is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few thoughtful touches. The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat any time of the day.
Pair with Coffee or Tea
- A warm cup of coffee or tea complements the sweetness of the rolls beautifully, providing a perfect balance.
Add Fresh Fruit
- Slices of fresh fruit like strawberries, bananas, or apples add a refreshing contrast to the rich rolls.
Serve with Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of a warm cinnamon roll creates an indulgent dessert experience.
Drizzle with Extra Frosting
- For those who love sweetness, an extra drizzle of cream cheese frosting can elevate the flavor even more.
Top with Nuts
- Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top add crunch and flavor, creating a delightful texture contrast.
How to Perfect The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
To achieve the best results when making these cinnamon rolls, follow these essential tips.
Use Fresh Yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast; using fresh yeast ensures that your rolls will rise properly.
Warm Milk: Warm your milk to around 110°F (43°C) before mixing it with yeast. This temperature activates the yeast effectively.
Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This process develops gluten, giving your rolls their soft texture.
Let It Rise: Allow sufficient time for the dough to rise in a warm place. This is crucial for achieving fluffy rolls.
Don’t Rush Baking: Make sure to bake until golden brown. Underbaking can lead to doughy centers and affect overall taste.
Best Side Dishes for The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your cinnamon rolls can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:
Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the rolls.Yogurt Parfait
Layered yogurt with granola and berries provides a creamy, crunchy complement to your dessert.Scrambled Eggs
Fluffy scrambled eggs offer protein and savory flavors that pair well with sweet cinnamon rolls.Hash Browns
Crispy hash browns add texture and are an excellent savory counterpart to sweet dishes.Smoothie Bowl
A smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds provides a nutritious option that contrasts beautifully with cinnamon rolls.Savory Breakfast Burrito
Filled with veggies and cheese, this hearty dish creates a balanced meal alongside sweet treats like cinnamon rolls.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making cinnamon rolls can be a delightful experience, but there are several common mistakes to watch out for.
- Ignoring the yeast proofing: Not activating the yeast properly can lead to dense rolls. Always ensure your yeast is fresh and bubbly before mixing it with the other ingredients.
- Overworking the dough: Kneading the dough too much can make rolls tough. Gently knead until it’s smooth and elastic but avoid excessive handling.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using too much flour or sugar can alter the texture and flavor. Invest in a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
- Skipping the resting time: Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls. Be patient; let it double in size for optimum fluffiness.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold milk or eggs can hinder the yeast activation process. Always use room temperature ingredients for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep them away from direct sunlight to prevent drying out.
Freezing The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- They will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap rolls in aluminum foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place one roll on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid and warm them gently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe.
How do I make The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe?
To make these cinnamon rolls, follow the recipe steps carefully, ensuring proper yeast activation and allowing enough rising time for fluffy results.
Can I customize The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips to personalize your rolls according to your taste preferences.
How long does it take to prepare The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe?
The total time is approximately 2 hours including preparation and baking. Most of this time is waiting for the dough to rise.
What can I substitute if I don’t have cream cheese?
For frosting alternatives, you can use Greek yogurt mixed with powdered sugar or any non-dairy cream alternative if desired.
Final Thoughts
These cinnamon rolls are not just soft and easy; they are versatile enough to adapt according to your tastes. You can mix in different spices or toppings as you see fit. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try today!
The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Indulge in the delightful experience of The BEST Soft And Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe, featuring fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth rolls filled with a luscious cinnamon-sugar blend and topped with creamy frosting. These irresistible treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering, a cozy brunch, or simply a sweet snack at home. With straightforward steps and wholesome ingredients, even novice bakers can achieve bakery-quality results. Prepare them ahead of time and enjoy fresh rolls whenever the craving strikes!
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 1/3 cups whole milk
- 4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (divided)
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon powder
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup icing sugar
Instructions
- Warm milk in a saucepan until warm to touch. Stir in yeast and sugar; let sit until frothy (about 5 minutes).
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add yeast mixture, eggs, and softened butter; mix until combined.
- Knead dough with a mixer on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes or by hand for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
- Mix brown sugar, cinnamon powder, and softened butter for filling; spread over rolled-out dough.
- Roll up tightly into a log; slice into 12 equal pieces.
- Arrange rolls on a greased baking sheet lined with parchment paper; cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for approximately 20 minutes until golden brown.
- While baking, beat cream cheese, unsalted butter, heavy cream, and icing sugar together until smooth.
- Frost rolls while warm; serve and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (100g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg