Homemade Cinnamon Rolls: Your Go-To Recipe for Ultimate Comfort

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s something undeniably heartwarming about the aroma of cinnamon wafting through my kitchen, especially when it beckons everyone in the house to gather around. This isn t just any weekend; it s the day I indulge in whipping up a batch of homemade cinnamon rolls. The moment I roll out the dough and sprinkle on the gooey, fragrant filling, I know I m creating a nostalgic masterpiece that transcends the ordinary breakfast routine.

These fluffy, pillowy rolls are perfect for lazy Sunday mornings or any occasion where you want to spread a little love. Straight from the oven, they re irresistible, especially when drizzled with that luscious cream cheese glaze. As I take that first bite, the delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors dances on my palate, reminding me why this classic pastry has a special place in my heart. Join me as we embark on this comforting baking adventure your home will never feel the same once you flood it with the cozy scent of freshly baked cinnamon rolls!

Why are Homemade Cinnamon Rolls a Must-Try?

Comforting, heartwarming experience: The wholesome aroma of baking cinnamon rolls instantly fills your home with warmth, inviting family and friends to gather and share delicious moments.
Easy to make: This straightforward recipe offers a fun baking experience, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Customize to your taste: Switch up the fillings or glazes to create your unique twist, be it nuts or maple flavoring; the possibilities are endless!
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it s a lazy Sunday brunch or a special holiday feast, these rolls are sure to impress everyone at the table.
Melt-in-your-mouth goodness: The fluffy texture, coupled with the sweet and spicy filling, creates a delightful treat that s hard to resist.
Great for meal prep: Bake a batch and enjoy them throughout the week or freeze some for a rainy day; cinnamon rolls never go out of style!

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients

For the Dough

• Bread Flour Provides structure and chewiness to the rolls; use all-purpose flour as an alternative.
• Granulated Sugar Sweetens the dough and is essential for flavor; brown sugar adds moisture.
• Instant Yeast Aids in the dough rising process; regular yeast can be used, but it requires longer rising times.
• Salt Balances flavors and enhances sweetness; this ingredient is vital for overall taste.
• Whole Milk Hydrates the dough and adds richness; almond or soy milk works for a dairy-free version.
• Butter (softened) Provides richness and flavor, necessary for both dough and filling; margarine is a suitable dairy-free option.
• Large Egg Adds moisture and richness to the dough; replace it with a flax egg for a vegan version.
• Vanilla Extract Enhances flavor; feel free to use vanilla bean paste for a deeper taste.
• Canola Oil Keeps the dough tender; any light-flavored oil will work.

For the Filling

• Cinnamon Adds warmth and flavor to the filling; adjust the amount to suit your taste.
• Light Brown Sugar Deepens the filling s sweetness; regular granulated sugar can substitute this.

For the Glaze

• Cream Cheese (softened) A key ingredient for a rich glaze; use dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan option.
• Powdered Sugar Sweetens the glaze and ensure it s sifted for a smooth consistency.
• Fresh Lemon Juice Brightens the glaze flavor; this is optional but highly recommended.

These homemade cinnamon rolls are sure to become a cherished recipe, perfect for creating a warm, inviting atmosphere in your kitchen!

How to Make Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

1. Prepare Dough: In a mixer bowl, combine warm milk with instant yeast, allowing it to bloom for about 5 minutes. This step activates the yeast, ensuring a fluffy rise.
2. Mix Ingredients: Add bread flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, salt, softened butter, large egg, and vanilla to the bowl. Mix until the dough pulls away from the edges, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Knead Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 3 minutes until it s smooth and slightly tacky. A well-kneaded dough will create those lovely fluffy rolls!
4. First Rise: Lightly oil a bowl, place the dough inside, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled, approximately 1.5 to 3 hours.
5. Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, mix light brown sugar and cinnamon until well combined. This fragrant mixture will give the rolls their deliciously sweet filling.
6. Shape Rolls: Roll out the dough into a rectangle. Spread it generously with softened butter, then evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture and roll it tightly into a cylinder.
7. Cut Rolls: Slice the rolled dough into 1.5-inch pieces and place them in a buttered baking pan. Cover and rest for 20 minutes at room temperature, then refrigerate overnight for extra flavor.
8. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C) so it s ready for those beautifully baked rolls.
9. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Keep an eye on them as they near the end of the baking time, for that perfect golden hue.
10. Make Glaze: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla, powdered sugar, and fresh lemon juice. Mix until smooth, adding a splash of milk if needed for desired consistency.
11. Glaze Rolls: While the rolls are still warm, generously spread the cream cheese glaze over the top. This will melt into the nooks and crannies, making them irresistibly delicious.

Optional: Add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling for an additional layer of texture.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Homemade Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time is a brilliant time-saver for busy mornings! You can make the dough and shape the rolls up to 24 hours in advance by following steps 1-7 and then refrigerating them overnight. This allows the flavors to develop beautifully while keeping the rolls just as fluffy once baked. When you re ready to enjoy, simply let the rolls come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C), and bake them until golden brown. For longer storage, you can freeze the shaped rolls for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Future gatherings and breakfasts just got a little easier with these delectable homemade cinnamon rolls!

How to Store and Freeze Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Room Temperature: Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their softness.

Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days; warm them before serving for the best taste.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.

Reheating: To enjoy your cinnamon rolls again, reheat in the oven at 350 °F (175 °C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave individual rolls for 15-20 seconds until warm.

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful variations and make this recipe your own; there s no wrong way to enjoy cinnamon rolls!

• Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a crunchy texture that complements the soft rolls beautifully.
• Raisin Twist: Incorporate raisins or dried cranberries into the filling for a sweet, chewy surprise in every bite. This small addition adds an enticing fruity flavor that balances the spices.
• Pumpkin Spice: Replace some of the cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist that celebrates autumn flavors beautifully. Enjoy the cozy warmth of fall right in your kitchen!
• Maple Glaze: Swap the vanilla extract with maple extract in the glaze for a sweet, earthy note that enhances the overall experience. It s a simple change that makes a world of difference.
• Vegan Version: Use almond milk, coconut oil, and flax eggs to create a vegan version of these rolls without sacrificing flavor or texture. You ll be amazed at how delicious they can be!
• Caramel Pecan: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the bottom of the baking dish and sprinkle in toasted pecans before placing the cut rolls on top for a sticky, sweet treat. The gooey topping elevates every bite.
• Chocolate Swirl: Add cocoa powder to the filling mix or sprinkle mini chocolate chips along with the cinnamon for a decadent chocolate-infused surprise that will wow your taste buds.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger for a surprising warmth that adds a unique flavor profile to your cinnamon rolls. Spice lovers will rejoice in this bold twist!

What to Serve with Homemade Cinnamon Rolls?

There s nothing quite like the experience of digging into warm, gooey cinnamon rolls, especially when paired with delightful accompaniments that enhance the flavors.

• Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a touch of tartness that beautifully complements the sweet rolls.
• Savory Breakfast Sausages: The rich, savory notes of sausage balance out the sweetness of cinnamon rolls, creating a perfect breakfast duo.
• Hot Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee enhances the comforting experience, cutting through the sweetness while elevating every bite.
• Creamy Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy, buttery eggs add a savory aspect to your meal, providing a satisfying textural contrast to the sweet rolls.
• Classic Orange Juice: Bright and refreshing, a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice brings a zesty kick, cleansing the palate between bites.
• Maple Syrup: Drizzling a touch of real maple syrup onto your rolls offers an extra layer of sweetness and depth that will have everyone reaching for another.
• Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream can be dolloped atop your cinnamon rolls for an indulgent treat, perfect for brunch gatherings.
• Coconut Milk Curd: This creamy delight adds a tropical flair that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon flavor, inviting everyone to dive into something new.
• Chocolate Milk: An unexpected but delightful pairing, chocolate milk adds a fun, nostalgic twist perfect for both young and young-at-heart foodies.

Each of these options not only complements homemade cinnamon rolls but turns an ordinary breakfast into a cherished gathering.

Tips for the Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

• Warm Milk Is Key: Ensure your milk is about 110 °F; this temperature helps activate the instant yeast for the perfect rise.
• Don t Over-Knead: Knead just until smooth about 3 minutes. Over-kneading can make your rolls tough instead of fluffy.
• Clean Cuts: Use dental floss to slice the rolled dough into pieces. It creates clean cuts without squishing the rolls!
• Rest Overnight: Refrigerate the cut rolls after resting for enhanced flavor and a more relaxed dough; they ll be tastier in the morning.
• Glaze at the Right Time: Spread the cream cheese glaze over warm rolls. This not only melts into the rolls but also enhances that delightful sweetness of your homemade cinnamon rolls!

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for my cinnamon rolls?
I recommend using bread flour for its structure and chewiness, but you can certainly substitute with all-purpose flour if that s what you have at home. Just note that the texture may be a tad different more tender but still delicious!

How should I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
To keep your homemade cinnamon rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to extend their life, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just remember to warm them up before serving for that lovely, fresh-from-the-oven taste!

Can I freeze homemade cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! To freeze, first place the sliced rolls on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once frozen solid (around 1 2 hours), transfer them into a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When you re ready to enjoy, just thaw them overnight in the fridge and let them rise for about 30 minutes before baking.

What if my dough isn t rising properly?
If the dough isn t rising, it could be due to the yeast being inactive. Ensure your warm milk was around 110 °F to 115 °F during mixing, and check that the yeast is fresh. If it s bloomed well in the warm milk but still isn t rising, it may not have enough warmth. Try placing the dough in a slightly warmed (turned off) oven to give it a hand!

Can I make these cinnamon rolls dairy-free?
Yes, you can easily make these cinnamon rolls dairy-free! Substitute whole milk with almond or soy milk. For the glaze, use dairy-free cream cheese and margarine instead of regular butter. It s a wonderful way to enjoy these rolls without compromising on flavor!