Soft and Gooey Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy weekend breakfast or a special treat for guests, these soft, gooey, and perfectly spiced cinnamon rolls are guaranteed to become a favorite in your home.
This recipe is made without any alcohol or pork-derived ingredients, staying true to wholesome, family-friendly cooking. Plus, it’s topped with a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth glaze that makes each bite irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Recipe
- Fluffy, tender dough made from scratch
- Rich brown sugar & cinnamon filling
- Creamy glaze with a hint of vanilla
- Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert
- Alcohol-free & pork-free – suitable for all families
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the glaze:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk (adjust as needed for consistency)
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Activate the yeast:
In a small bowl, mix the warm milk with the yeast. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, until foamy.
2. Prepare the dough:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, and eggs. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead and rise:
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
4. Roll and fill:
Roll out the dough into a 16×12 inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
5. Shape the rolls:
Roll the dough tightly from the long edge to form a log. Slice into 12 even pieces and place them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
6. Bake to perfection:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Glaze and enjoy:
While the rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk to form a creamy glaze. Spread over warm cinnamon rolls and serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Make sure your milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- You can prep the rolls the night before and bake them in the morning!
- Adjust glaze thickness by adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 12 cinnamon rolls
Calories: Approx. 420 kcal per roll
