Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

These Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect treat for any occasion. Soft, fluffy, and topped with creamy icing, they bring warmth and sweetness to your breakfast table or brunch spread. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just want to indulge in a delightful snack, these cinnamon rolls will impress everyone. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have fresh homemade cinnamon rolls ready in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe allows you to whip up delicious rolls in under two hours.
• Soft and Fluffy: The combination of rapid-rise yeast and careful baking creates the perfect texture.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Enjoy them for breakfast, dessert, or as a sweet snack anytime.
• Irresistible Cream Cheese Icing: The smooth icing adds just the right touch of sweetness to each roll.
• Homemade Goodness: Freshly made from scratch, these rolls are better than store-bought options.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these delightful rolls, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will streamline the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Rolling pin: Helps in stretching the dough evenly for perfect layers.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface to bake your cinnamon rolls for optimal fluffiness.

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

How to Make Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Combine warm water and sugar in a bowl. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add melted butter and egg to the yeast mixture. Gradually add this mixture to the flour. Stir until combined.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn dough onto a floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place dough in a greased bowl; cover with plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough. Roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface.

Step 5: Add Filling

Spread softened butter over the rolled-out dough. Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon evenly on top.

Step 6: Roll Up

Starting from one end, carefully roll up the dough tightly into a log shape. Cut into slices about 1 inch thick.

Step 7: Bake

Place slices on a greased baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap again; let them rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 25 minutes until golden brown.

Step 8: Make Cream Cheese Icing

While rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

Step 9: Frost

When rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let cool slightly before drizzling with icing.

Enjoy these Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls fresh out of the oven! They’re sure to become a family favorite!

How to Serve Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Serving your Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls can be as fun as making them! These rolls are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert.

With Fresh Fruit

• Add a side of fresh berries or sliced bananas to enhance the sweetness and freshness of the rolls.

Drizzle with Extra Icing

• A little extra cream cheese icing on top can elevate your cinnamon rolls to a whole new level of indulgence.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• Serve with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy experience, ideal for enjoying on cold mornings.

Top with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for an added crunch and flavor contrast.

Serve Warm

• Always serve your cinnamon rolls warm for the best texture and taste. A quick reheat in the oven works wonders!

Save it!

How to Perfect Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

To achieve the ultimate cinnamon roll experience, follow these handy tips for perfect results every time.

• Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise and fluffiness in your rolls.
• Knead Well: Kneading helps develop gluten which gives your rolls that lovely soft texture. Aim for about 5-7 minutes.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing your dough to rest is crucial. It helps enhance the flavor and texture.
• Measure Flour Properly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid adding too much flour, which can lead to dry rolls.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts in addition to cinnamon for a unique twist.
• Cool Before Icing: Let your rolls cool slightly before icing them; this prevents melting and ensures a beautiful finish.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls can make your meal even more delightful. Here are some great options:

1. Scrambled Eggs: Light and fluffy scrambled eggs complement the sweetness of cinnamon rolls perfectly.
2. Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon adds a savory touch that balances out the sweet flavors beautifully.
3. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad provides freshness and acidity, enhancing each bite of your rolls.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruits offers a creamy contrast that pairs well with cinnamon rolls.
5. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns add texture and heartiness, making for a satisfying brunch spread.
6. Smoothie Bowl: A refreshing smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds creates a healthy balance alongside sweet rolls.
7. Oven-Baked Sausages: Savory sausages bring protein to the table, making it a hearty breakfast option.
8. Herb-Infused Tea: A fragrant herbal tea adds warmth and complements the flavors of cinnamon without overpowering them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using stale yeast: Always check the expiration date of your yeast. If it’s old, your rolls won’t rise properly. Use fresh yeast for the best results.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make your rolls dense. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Skipping proofing time: Allow the dough to rise as instructed. Skipping this step will result in less fluffy rolls.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too vigorously can develop gluten, making the rolls tough. Mix until just combined for a softer texture.
• Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can hinder the dough’s rise. Allow these ingredients to reach room temperature before use.

Save it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 15-30 seconds per roll, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet with a little water, cover, and heat on low until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls without yeast?

You can use baking powder instead of yeast for a quicker version. However, they will have a different texture.

What is the best way to frost my Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls?

For best results, frost your rolls while they are still warm. This allows the cream cheese icing to melt slightly, creating a delightful layer.

Can I customize my Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls?

Absolutely! Consider adding nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips to the filling for variation and extra flavor.

Why are my Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls not rising?

Ensure your yeast is fresh and that you are allowing enough time for the dough to rise in a warm environment.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls are truly irresistible! Their soft and fluffy texture makes them perfect for breakfast or dessert. Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or toppings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy their heavenly taste!