There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. Fluffy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Sweet Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that can make any morning feel special. With their soft, pillowy texture and sweet frosting, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Here’s how you can make these delicious rolls right in your own kitchen!
Table of Contents
Why Make This Recipe
Making homemade cinnamon rolls is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s an experience! The simple ingredients come together to create a wonderful blend of flavors, making every bite a joy. Plus, the homemade cream cheese frosting adds a rich sweetness that you won’t find in store-bought versions. Making these rolls from scratch allows you to control the flavors and the sweetness, making them perfect for you and your family.
How to Make Fluffy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Sweet Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1⁄4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1⁄4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1⁄4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1⁄2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (to thin if necessary)
Directions
- In a bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Stir in sugar and let it sit for 5 minutes until it’s frothy.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, and the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick. Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough. Roll it tightly from the longer side, then cut into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown.
- In a separate bowl, beat together cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk (if needed) until smooth.
- Spread the frosting over the warm rolls. Serve immediately.
How to Serve Fluffy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Sweet Cream Cheese Frosting
Serve these warm cinnamon rolls fresh out of the oven. The sweet cream cheese frosting will melt slightly, adding an extra layer of deliciousness. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting breakfast or snack. They can also be enjoyed as a dessert at the end of a meal.
How to Store Fluffy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Sweet Cream Cheese Frosting
If you have any leftover cinnamon rolls, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week if you prefer. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven.
Tips to Make Fluffy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Sweet Cream Cheese Frosting
- Ensure your milk is warm, but not too hot, or it may kill the yeast. It should feel warm to the touch.
- Knead the dough until it’s smooth; this will give you that fluffy texture.
- Allow the rolls to rise properly for the best results. The dough should double in size.
- Don’t rush the frosting; be sure to beat it until smooth for a perfect finish.
Variation
You can add different ingredients to customize your cinnamon rolls. Consider adding nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips to the filling for an exciting twist. You can also experiment with flavored frostings or glazes.
FAQs
1. Can I use milk straight from the fridge?
No, it’s important to warm the milk to around 110°F (45°C) to activate the yeast properly. Cold milk can hinder the rising process.
2. How can I tell when my rolls are done baking?
The rolls should be golden brown on top, and you can also tap lightly on the top; if it sounds hollow, they are likely done.
3. Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked rolls before the second rise. Just cover them well and freeze. When ready, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then follow the rising and baking instructions.
Enjoy your baking adventure with these delicious Fluffy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Sweet Cream Cheese Frosting!
Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C) Ensure it is warm but not too hot.
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
Filling Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar Packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Frosting Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk To thin if necessary
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Stir in sugar and let it sit for 5 minutes until it’s frothy.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, and the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Filling
- Mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick. Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough.
- Roll it tightly from the longer side, then cut into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Baking
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown.
Frosting
- In a separate bowl, beat together cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk (if needed) until smooth.
- Spread the frosting over the warm rolls. Serve immediately.
