The Best Cinnamon Rolls ✨

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Soft, fluffy, and filled with a warm cinnamon-sugar swirl, these cinnamon rolls are the ultimate treat for your Thanksgiving gathering. Topped with a creamy glaze, they are perfect for breakfast or as a sweet indulgence alongside your holiday meal. Watch your family and friends savor each bite of these delightful pastries—everyone will be asking for the recipe!

Ruby Lawson

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2025-11-23T08:21:30.684Z

Discover the joy of baking these delicious cinnamon rolls. Perfect for family gatherings.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These cinnamon rolls are not just a holiday treat; they can be enjoyed year-round. Whether it's a cozy family brunch, a festive holiday gathering, or simply a self-care Sunday, these fluffy delights fit seamlessly into any occasion. Their inviting aroma infuses your home, making the experience even more special. The soft texture and warm filling make each bite a moment of pure bliss, bringing comfort and joy to anyone who indulges in them.

Though they might seem like a weekend project, these rolls are surprisingly easy to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of love, you'll create a show-stopping dish that impresses everyone. The joy of homemade cinnamon rolls lies in their ability to bring people together, transforming any meal into a memorable celebration.

Tips for the Best Results

For the best cinnamon rolls, pay attention to your dough. Allow it to rise in a warm, draft-free area until it doubles in size. This step is crucial as it ensures the rolls will be light and fluffy. If your kitchen is chilly, try placing the dough in an oven that's been slightly warmed, then turned off to rise for the perfect environment.

Another important tip is to roll the dough evenly when preparing the filling. This ensures a consistent distribution of the cinnamon-sugar mixture, which results in every bite having that delicious swirl. Lastly, don’t rush the baking process. Each oven is different, so keep an eye on your rolls until they are golden brown and cooked through for the perfect texture.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover cinnamon rolls, storing them properly will keep them fresh for days. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They also freeze exceptionally well, so consider wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag for long-term storage. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Reheating is key to bringing back that just-baked softness. Pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at a low temperature to refresh the texture. If you like, drizzle a little extra glaze over them after reheating to restore that creamy finish, making them just as delectable as the day they were baked.

Ingredients

Dough

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet instant yeast
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg

Filling

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix all ingredients well for best results.

Instructions

Make the Dough

In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix milk, butter, and egg. Add to dry ingredients and knead until smooth.

Prepare the Filling

Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter in a small bowl.

Assemble the Rolls

Roll out the dough, spread the filling, and roll it tightly. Cut into slices.

Bake

Place rolls in a greased baking dish and let rise. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.

Make the Glaze

Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls.

Enjoy your freshly baked cinnamon rolls!

Cinnamon Rolls Variations

While the classic cinnamon rolls are already a delightful treat, there are numerous variations you can explore to elevate your baking game. Consider adding nuts, such as chopped pecans or walnuts, to the filling for an extra crunch. Dried fruit like raisins or cranberries can also be a wonderful complement to the sweet cinnamon flavor, providing a chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft dough.

For a unique twist, try incorporating different spices along with the cinnamon, such as nutmeg or cardamom. These spices can elevate the flavor profile, offering a more complex and aromatic experience. Additionally, you could experiment with flavored glazes or cream cheese frosting instead of the traditional glaze for a richer, more decadent finish.

Serving Suggestions

These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed warm and fresh out of the oven, but they can also be served alongside a variety of accompaniments for an unforgettable meal. Pair them with a rich cup of coffee or hot chocolate to enhance the flavors and create a cozy, comforting experience. For a delightful contrast, serve them with a side of fresh fruit, like berries or a citrus salad, which will brighten the rich sweetness of the rolls.

If you're feeling indulgent, drizzle extra frosting or whipped cream on top and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. This combination transforms your cinnamon rolls into a unique dessert that’s sure to impress guests after a holiday feast or special dinner.

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls the night before and refrigerate them.

→ What can I use instead of milk?

Almond milk or oat milk can be used as a substitute.

The Best Cinnamon Rolls ✨

Soft, fluffy, and filled with a warm cinnamon-sugar swirl, these cinnamon rolls are the ultimate treat for your Thanksgiving gathering. Topped with a creamy glaze, they are perfect for breakfast or as a sweet indulgence alongside your holiday meal. Watch your family and friends savor each bite of these delightful pastries—everyone will be asking for the recipe!

Prep Time30 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time55 minutes

Created by: Ruby Lawson

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 12 rolls

What You'll Need

Dough

  1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  3. 1 packet instant yeast
  4. 1/2 teaspoon salt
  5. 1/2 cup milk
  6. 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  7. 1 large egg

Filling

  1. 1/2 cup brown sugar
  2. 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  3. 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

Glaze

  1. 1 cup powdered sugar
  2. 2 tablespoons milk
  3. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix milk, butter, and egg. Add to dry ingredients and knead until smooth.

Step 02

Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter in a small bowl.

Step 03

Roll out the dough, spread the filling, and roll it tightly. Cut into slices.

Step 04

Place rolls in a greased baking dish and let rise. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.

Step 05

Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Carbohydrates: 37g
  • Protein: 3g