Maple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
There’s something truly magical about the scent of warm, gooey Maple Cinnamon Rolls baking in the oven. This irresistible treat layers pillowy soft dough, a sweet cinnamon swirl, and a lusciously silky maple glaze — making every bite pure comfort. Whether you crave a cozy breakfast, a special treat for guests, or simply want to indulge yourself, this recipe delivers a harmonious blend of classic flavors with a lovely maple twist. You’ll soon discover why these Maple Cinnamon Rolls are a heartwarming favorite in so many kitchens!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in these Maple Cinnamon Rolls serves a special purpose, coming together to create that iconic melt-in-your-mouth texture and unforgettable flavor. While most are pantry staples, each step highlights why quality and freshness matter. Here’s what you’ll need, along with simple tips to bring out the very best in this recipe:
- All-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure for soft, tender rolls that rise beautifully and hold all the delicious filling.
- Active dry yeast: Gives the dough its fluffy, airy lift; make sure it’s fresh for the best texture.
- Warm milk (110°F): Makes the dough super tender and encourages the yeast to activate quickly — make sure it’s not too hot or cold!
- Granulated sugar: Just enough to feed the yeast and add subtle sweetness to the dough.
- Unsalted butter (melted and softened): Adds richness and flavor to both the dough and the filling; using unsalted ensures you control every bit of the seasoning.
- Egg: Binds the dough, giving it lovely color and a rich taste.
- Salt: A pinch goes a long way, balancing the sweetness and bringing out the flavors in the dough.
- Brown sugar: Provides a deep caramel note in the filling that pairs beautifully with cinnamon and maple.
- Ground cinnamon: The star spice that creates that familiar, cozy swirl in each roll.
- Powdered sugar: The base for a satiny maple glaze that drapes over the warm rolls so perfectly.
- Pure maple syrup: Adds gorgeous depth, warmth, and unmistakable maple flavor to the final drizzle.
- Milk (for the glaze): Helps achieve just the right glaze consistency — add slowly to avoid runny icing!
- Vanilla extract: Infuses the glaze with a whisper of sweet fragrance that pairs so well with maple and cinnamon.
- Pinch of salt: Rounds out the glaze, balancing the sweetness for a perfect finish.
How to Make Maple Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by combining your warm milk and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit undisturbed for 5 to 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s foamy and fragrant — this means your yeast is alive and ready to give your Maple Cinnamon Rolls that coveted fluffiness!
Step 2: Make the Dough
Once the yeast is activated, whisk in the melted butter, egg, and salt. Gradually add the flour, stirring gently until a soft dough begins to form. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 6 to 8 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and silky to the touch. It’s a little arm workout, but totally worth it!
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Place your dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Find a warm, draft-free spot in your kitchen and let it rise until doubled in size — about one hour. This dough is easy, forgiving, and oh-so-rewarding as you watch it puff up with promise.
Step 4: Roll and Fill
Punch down the airy dough and roll it out into a 10×16-inch rectangle on a floured counter. Spread the softened butter over the entire surface, then sprinkle an even layer of brown sugar and ground cinnamon. This is where your Maple Cinnamon Rolls get their signature swirls!
Step 5: Shape and Second Rise
Starting on the long side, roll the dough up tightly to create a lovely spiral. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces and place them cut side up into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let the rolls rise again for 30 to 45 minutes, until they’re plump and almost touching. This final proof ensures a soft, cloud-like crumb.
Step 6: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the Maple Cinnamon Rolls for 22 to 25 minutes until they are lightly golden and the house smells impossibly good. Resist the urge to overbake; you want them just set and moist in the center!
Step 7: Make and Drizzle the Maple Glaze
While the rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, pure maple syrup, milk (add gradually), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm rolls as soon as they come out of the oven, so it melts into every swirl and crevice. Get ready for pure perfection!
How to Serve Maple Cinnamon Rolls
Garnishes
These rolls truly shine on their own, but a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of toasted nuts (like pecans or walnuts) adds a touch of elegance and crunch. A little extra maple syrup, drizzled just before serving, highlights the rich maple notes even more. If you’re feeling extra festive, try a thin ribbon of orange zest!
Side Dishes
Maple Cinnamon Rolls pair beautifully with fresh fruit — think juicy berries or orange segments to brighten up your breakfast spread. For a full brunch, try serving them alongside a savory egg bake, crisp bacon, or creamy Greek yogurt. A good cup of coffee or chai tea is basically essential for the full experience!
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the Maple Cinnamon Rolls on a pretty cake stand or a rustic wooden board for a cozy, inviting display. You can also bake them in a round pan for a classic pull-apart effect. For gatherings, consider making mini rolls baked in muffin tins for a delightful grab-and-go treat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve got a few rolls leftover (lucky you!), keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to five days. The rolls will stay soft and moist, especially if you wrap them individually to lock in their freshness.
Freezing
Both unbaked and baked Maple Cinnamon Rolls can be frozen for future cravings! Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. For unbaked rolls, freeze after slicing and before the second rise, then thaw and let rise before baking. For baked rolls, thaw overnight and warm them gently before drizzling with fresh glaze.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop a roll in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds, or cover and warm in a low oven (300°F) for about 10 minutes. If you want to refresh the maple glaze, whisk up a quick batch and drizzle over the warm rolls just before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I make Maple Cinnamon Rolls the night before?
Absolutely! Assemble the rolls up to the point of the second rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature (about 30 minutes) and then bake as usual. This is a game-changer for brunch or holiday mornings.
Do I have to use pure maple syrup for the glaze?
Pure maple syrup offers the richest, most authentic flavor and is definitely worth using if you can. Maple-flavored syrup can work in a pinch, but the depth just won’t be quite the same.
Can I add nuts or fruit to these rolls?
Of course! Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts add a wonderful crunch. You can also scatter a few raisins or chopped dried apples over the filling before rolling for extra bursts of flavor.
What if I don’t have a stand mixer?
No problem! The dough is soft and easily kneaded by hand. Just keep a bit of extra flour nearby and knead until the dough is elastic and springs back when pressed with your finger.
How do I avoid overcooking the Maple Cinnamon Rolls?
Check them at the 22-minute mark and look for a light golden brown top. The centers should be set but still slightly soft — they’ll finish firming up as they cool. Ovens can vary, so keep a close eye during the final few minutes.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to fill your kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of homemade Maple Cinnamon Rolls, this is the ultimate recipe to try. Every swirl is packed with comfort and joy, and that soul-soothing maple glaze is the cherry on top. Don’t wait for a special occasion — treat yourself and your loved ones soon, and watch these rolls disappear faster than you can say “just one more!”
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Maple Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the warm, comforting goodness of homemade Maple Cinnamon Rolls with a delectable maple glaze. These soft, sweet breakfast treats are perfect for a cozy morning or a delightful dessert.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Filling:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Maple Glaze:
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Dough: In a large bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle in the yeast and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. Add melted butter, egg, and salt. Stir in flour gradually until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Filling: Punch down the dough and roll it out into a 10×16-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter over the surface, then sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll up tightly from the long edge and slice into 12 equal rolls. Place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
- Baking: Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 22–25 minutes until golden brown.
- Maple Glaze: While the rolls bake, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt to make the glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls and serve.
Notes
- For an overnight version, prepare the rolls up to the second rise and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking in the morning.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus 1 hour 30 minutes rise time)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 170 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
