Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Try Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe for soft, delicious, ooey gooey homemade cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing in just 1 hour! These cinnamon rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Whether it’s a lazy weekend morning or a special occasion, this recipe delivers warm and comforting flavors that everyone will love. Plus, the quick preparation time makes it a hassle-free choice for any home baker.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip up these cinnamon rolls in just one hour without any rising time.
• Deliciously Gooey: The combination of melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon creates a mouthwatering filling.
• Customizable Icing: Top them off with a creamy cream cheese icing or enjoy them plain—either way is delightful!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve them at breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat during family gatherings.
• Beginner-Friendly: This recipe is simple enough for novice bakers to achieve great results.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Whisk or electric hand mixer
• Rolling pin
• Knife or dough scraper
• Baking pan (9×13)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients easily without spills.
• Electric hand mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing your icing until smooth.
• Rolling pin: Helps to roll out the dough evenly for perfect cinnamon rolls.
• Baking pan: A quality pan ensures even baking and golden-brown results.

Ingredients

Try Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe for soft, delicious, ooey gooey homemade cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing in just 1 hour time!

Dough Ingredients

• 1 cup milk (I recommend whole or 2%)
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 0.25 ounce packet active dry yeast (make sure it’s not expired!)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Filling Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 Tbsp. cinnamon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Cream Cheese Icing Ingredients

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2-4 Tbsp. milk (add 1 tbsp at a time)

How to Make Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

First begin preparing your dough by melting 1/2-stick unsalted butter in a small, microwave-safe bowl in the microwave for 40-45 seconds, or until melted. Pour into a medium size bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Heat the Milk

Next, heat milk in the same small microwave-safe bowl in the microwave for 45 seconds and pour in the bowl with the melted butter.
Pro tip: To ensure your yeast mixture properly activates, I recommend using a digital thermometer to check that the temperature of the milk/butter is between 100-110 degrees F. If needed you can microwave a little longer until the temperature is reached, or if the liquid is too hot, wait until it has lowered to between 100-110 degrees F before combining with the yeast/sugar.

Step 3: Activate Yeast Mixture

Stir in sugar and yeast packet until dissolved. Cover with a tea cloth/towel or plastic wrap and let sit for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Preheat Your Oven

While you are waiting for your dough to activate, preheat your oven to the lowest setting (mine is 170 degrees F).

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

After 10 minutes, the yeast mixture should be fully frothy/foamy. Remove towel and add in 1 egg, salt, and vanilla extract.

Step 6: Add Flour

Next, begin adding in flour in 1/2 cup increments, folding in with a spatula until combined.
If easier, you can use your hands to incorporate the last bit of flour. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky but not too sticky.

Step 7: Proof Dough

Form dough into a round ball in the bowl and cover with a tea cloth. Turn your oven OFF and place covered dough in the warm oven to proof for 10 minutes.

Step 8: Make Filling

While your dough is proofing, begin preparing your cinnamon sugar filling.
In a medium size mixing bowl, use an electric hand mixer to combine softened butter, brown sugar, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until combined. Set aside.

Step 9: Roll Out Dough

Once dough has proofed for 10 minutes, remove towel and place dough on a large pastry mat or a clean lightly greased or floured surface to roll out. Use a rolling pin and roll the dough to form a rectangle measuring approximately 14″ x 18″ and about 1/4″ thick.

Step 10: Spread Filling

Next, begin preheating oven to 350 degrees and use an offset spatula to spread the cinnamon sugar butter mixture on your rolled-out dough almost to the edges.

Step 11: Roll Up Dough

Starting with the short side towards you, tightly roll vertically away from you to form a log.

Step 12: Cut Cinnamon Rolls

Once rolled up tightly, use a dough scraper or knife to pre-mark the log for cutting into slices.
First pre-mark it in half,
Then pre-mark half of those halves,
Lastly pre-mark three slices in each section for a total of twelve even slices.
Use slow back-and-forth sawing motions with a serrated edge knife for clean cuts without squishing out filling.

Step 13: Bake Cinnamon Rolls

Place cinnamon rolls in a greased baking pan (9×13) that has been sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Bake at 350 degrees for about twenty-five minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 14: Cooling Time

Let cool for ten minutes on a wire cooling rack once out of the oven.

Step 15: Prepare Icing

While cinnamon rolls are cooling prepare your cream cheese icing by using an electric hand mixer to combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk (adding one tablespoon at a time) until smooth. Adjust milk amount based on desired consistency—more milk equals thinner icing!

Step 16: Enjoy!

Spread cream cheese icing on warm cinnamon rolls before serving them up! Enjoy every warm bite!

How to Serve Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Serving your Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls can elevate the experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some delightful serving suggestions for you to consider.

With Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Serve with strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
• Banana Slices: Add sliced bananas on the side for creamy texture and flavor.

Drizzled with Extra Icing

• Cream Cheese Icing: Increase the decadence by drizzling more cream cheese icing over each roll before serving.
• Chocolate Drizzle: For a twist, melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the rolls after icing.

Pairing with Beverages

• Coffee: A hot cup of coffee complements the cinnamon flavors beautifully.
• Milk: Serve with cold milk for a classic pairing that everyone will love.

Topped with Nuts

• Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: Sprinkle some chopped nuts on top for added crunch and richness.
• Toasted Almonds: Try toasted almonds for a slightly sweet, nutty flavor that works well with cinnamon rolls.

Served Warm

• Freshly Baked: Enjoy them straight out of the oven while they’re warm and gooey for the best taste experience.

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How to Perfect Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Perfecting your Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe can lead to an even better result. Here are some tips to ensure your rolls turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh and active—this is key for fluffy rolls.
• Check Milk Temperature: Before mixing, verify that your milk and butter combination is between 100-110 degrees F for optimal yeast activation.
• Don’t Overwork Dough: Knead just until combined; overworking can lead to tough rolls rather than soft ones.
• Proof in a Warm Spot: If your kitchen is cool, find a warm place (like an oven that’s turned off) to help the dough rise effectively.
• Be Precise with Measurements: Use measuring cups and spoons to accurately measure ingredients for consistent results.
• Adjust Baking Time as Needed: Keep an eye on the rolls while baking—ovens vary, so check for that light golden brown color.

Best Side Dishes for Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein and balance the sweetness of the rolls.
2. Breakfast Sausages: Savory sausages provide a tasty contrast to sweet cinnamon rolls—great on a brunch spread!
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds color and complements the rich flavors of cinnamon rolls.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a nutritious option that pairs nicely with sweet pastries.
5. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns make a hearty side dish that balances out the softness of cinnamon rolls.
6. Smoothie Bowl: A healthy smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds offers a vibrant addition to your breakfast table.
7. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado toast serves as a trendy side that provides healthy fats and fiber.
8. Pancakes or Waffles: For an indulgent treat, serve alongside pancakes or waffles topped with syrup or fruit.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving the best results. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Incorrect yeast temperature: If your milk and butter mixture is too hot or too cold, the yeast won’t activate properly. Always check that it’s between 100-110 degrees F before mixing.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using too much or too little of any ingredient can affect the texture and flavor. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Skipping the proofing step: Allowing the dough to proof for 10 minutes is crucial for soft rolls. Don’t rush this step; it helps with texture.
• Overworking the dough: Kneading too much can make your cinnamon rolls tough. Mix just until combined and keep it soft and slightly tacky.
• Cutting rolls unevenly: For even cooking, cut your rolls uniformly. Pre-mark the dough before cutting to help achieve equal sizes.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

• Freeze unbaked rolls before the second rise.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls on high for 15-20 seconds; cover with a damp paper towel for moisture.
• Stovetop: Place in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water for steam, and warm until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe.

How do I ensure my cinnamon rolls come out fluffy?

To achieve fluffy rolls, make sure your yeast is fresh and activated properly. Letting your dough proof in a warm environment helps as well.

Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?

Yes! Almond milk works fine as a substitute. Just ensure it’s warmed to activate the yeast properly.

What if I don’t have cream cheese for icing?

You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone cheese or even Greek yogurt mixed with powdered sugar for a different flavor profile.

Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Certainly! You can prepare them up to the point of baking, refrigerate overnight, and bake them fresh in the morning.

Final Thoughts

The Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe offers delightful homemade goodness in just one hour. Their soft texture and sweet cream cheese icing make them perfect for breakfast or snacks. Feel free to customize with nuts, raisins, or different spices to suit your taste!