Soft Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

If you have ever dreamed of waking up to warm, fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth cinnamon rolls that fill your kitchen with the most inviting aroma, then this Soft Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is exactly what you need to try next. This recipe combines the perfect balance of a tender, pillowy dough with a sweet cinnamon-sugar filling and a rich glaze that elevates every bite. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a weekend kitchen adventurer, these cinnamon rolls are guaranteed to become a beloved classic in your home, bringing smiles and cozy mornings to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting ready to make these indulgent Soft Cinnamon Rolls Recipe treats is a breeze because it uses simple, everyday ingredients that pack tremendous flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that soft dough, the just-right cinnamon sugar filling, and the luscious glaze that ties it all together.

• All-purpose flour: This is the foundation of your dough, providing structure and tenderness when measured just right.
• Instant yeast: Responsible for making the dough rise and giving your rolls their airy texture.
• Warm milk: Adds moisture and helps activate the yeast, ensuring your rolls turn out soft and fluffy.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and feeds the yeast for a perfect rise.
• Unsalted butter (melted and softened): Infuses richness, tenderness, and flavor into both the dough and the filling.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the rolls.
• Large eggs: Provide structure and help create a soft, chewy crumb.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic hint that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
• Brown sugar: Gives the filling its deep, caramel-like sweetness and moist texture.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives the rolls their signature flavor.
• Powdered sugar: Essential for the glaze’s smooth, creamy finish.
• Milk for glaze: Achieves the perfect consistency for drizzling over warm rolls.

How to Make Soft Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by combining warm milk, sugar, and instant yeast in a large bowl. Stir gently and let it rest for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and alive. This step ensures your dough will rise beautifully and have that wonderful fluffy texture we all crave.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to your yeast mixture, mixing well. These enrich the dough with moisture and flavor, creating a tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth.

Step 3: Mix in the Dry Ingredients

Gradually stir in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms. Resist the urge to add too much extra flour – a slightly sticky dough leads to softer rolls!

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic. This develops the gluten, giving the rolls their perfect chewiness and structured rise.

Step 5: First Rise

Pop the dough into a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rest in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until it doubles in size. This is when the magic happens, transforming your dough into something light and airy.

Step 6: Prepare the Filling

In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. This sweet, buttery mixture is what makes every bite irresistibly flavorful and aromatic.

Step 7: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, roll out the dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle about 12 by 18 inches. A generous, even layer helps ensure you get cinnamon goodness in every bite.

Step 8: Spread the Filling

Spread your cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the rolled dough, covering every inch. This ensures every roll gets that perfect swirl of sweetness.

Step 9: Roll and Slice

Roll the dough carefully, starting from one long edge, to form a tight log. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to slice it into 12 even rolls. These neat rounds are eager to rise again and bake into golden perfection.

Step 10: Second Rise

Place rolls into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, cover with a cloth, and let them rise another 30 minutes. This step guarantees puffy rolls with tender centers.

Step 11: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown. The smell of baking cinnamon fills your space and promises deliciousness ahead.

Step 12: Prepare and Apply the Glaze

While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Drizzle this luscious glaze over the warm rolls just out of the oven. It melts slightly and adds a sweet, creamy finish that makes these cinnamon rolls utterly irresistible.

How to Serve Soft Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

For extra flair, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze. A little dusting of cinnamon or a few fresh berries can also brighten the presentation and add delightful texture contrasts.

Side Dishes

Soft cinnamon rolls are delightful on their own but pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or a glass of cold milk. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit or creamy yogurt to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving these at a gathering, try stacking a few on a pretty plate and drizzling extra glaze artistically across the top. You could also serve each roll in individual ramekins or cut them halfway through to make pull-apart bread for fun, interactive eating.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and delicious, ready to brighten your mornings or snack times.

Freezing

You can freeze baked cinnamon rolls by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Reheating

To warm up your cinnamon rolls, microwave them for about 20 seconds or heat in a preheated oven at 300°F for 10 minutes. A quick refresh brings them back to that soft, gooey glory everyone loves about this Soft Cinnamon Rolls Recipe.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast for instant yeast, but you’ll need to proof it first in warm water with a bit of sugar before adding it to the other ingredients. Instant yeast is just a bit quicker and easier.

Why are my cinnamon rolls dense instead of soft?

Dense rolls usually mean the dough didn’t rise long enough or wasn’t kneaded properly. Make sure the dough doubles in size during both rises and don’t add too much flour while kneading.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the milk for a plant-based alternative, use vegan butter, and replace the eggs with flax eggs or applesauce. The texture might vary slightly but it will still be delicious.

What’s the best way to roll out the dough?

Lightly flour your surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking. Roll evenly and gently to keep the dough from tearing while creating that perfect rectangle.

Can I double the recipe size?

Yes! This recipe scales well. Just be sure to use a larger mixing bowl and baking pans to accommodate the extra dough.

Final Thoughts

Making this Soft Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is truly a rewarding journey from simple ingredients to a luxurious treat you can share with those you love. It’s one of those recipes that fills your home with warmth and your heart with joy. Don’t hesitate—grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to these irresistibly fluffy cinnamon rolls. You’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.

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