Best Cinnamon Roll Recipe – Soft, Fluffy & Gooey

If you’re searching for the best cinnamon roll recipe, you’ve come to the right place! Nothing compares to the warm, gooey, and sweet perfection of homemade cinnamon rolls. These soft and fluffy treats, filled with a rich cinnamon-sugar mixture and topped with a creamy glaze, are the ultimate indulgence for breakfast, brunch, or a special occasion.

While store-bought cinnamon rolls can be convenient, making them from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and achieve bakery-quality results right in your own kitchen. In this guide, we’ll walk you through a foolproof method to create the most delicious, melt-in-your-mouth cinnamon rolls. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying this for the first time, get ready to bake a batch of irresistible cinnamon rolls that will impress everyone!

By the end of this article, you’ll have everything you need to create homemade cinnamon rolls that rival any bakery! 🥐💛

Ingredients for the Best Cinnamon Roll Recipe

Before we dive into the step-by-step process, let’s gather all the ingredients. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture, flavor, and richness of the Best Cinnamon Roll Recipe.

Essential Dough Ingredients for the Best Cinnamon Roll Recipe

The dough is the foundation of a great cinnamon roll. It should be soft, slightly chewy, and rich in flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• ¾ cup warm milk (110°F or 43°C) – Helps activate the yeast and keeps the dough tender.
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast – Creates the fluffy rise in the dough.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar – Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness.
• 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk, room temperature – Adds richness and softness.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted – Provides a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the dough; provides structure.
• ¾ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.

Pro Tip: If you prefer an extra buttery and soft texture, replace ¼ cup of the flour with bread flour for a chewier bite.

Rich Cinnamon Filling for the Best Cinnamon Roll Recipe

The secret to a gooey and flavorful cinnamon roll is in the filling. This mixture creates a caramelized, spiced swirl that makes every bite heavenly.

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Allows the filling to spread evenly.
• ¾ cup brown sugar (light or dark) – Provides a deep caramel-like sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon – The star ingredient, giving the rolls their signature warm spice.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth and enhances the flavors.

Cream Cheese Frosting for the Best Cinnamon Roll Recipe

No cinnamon roll is complete without a smooth, tangy, and creamy frosting melting into every swirl. This frosting is not too sweet but perfectly rich and spreadable.

• 4 ounces (½ block) cream cheese, softened – Adds a tangy, creamy texture.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened – Helps create a smooth consistency.
• 1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor.
• Pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness.

Pro Tip: If you want extra thick and rich frosting, double the cream cheese and reduce the powdered sugar slightly.

How to Make the Best Cinnamon Roll Recipe – Step-by-Step Guide

Now that we’ve gathered all the ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making the best cinnamon roll recipe. These soft, fluffy, and gooey cinnamon rolls are easy to make at home with the right techniques. Follow this guide closely to ensure you get the best cinnamon roll recipe with perfect results every time. Whether you’re baking for breakfast, brunch, or a special occasion, this best cinnamon roll recipe will be your go-to favorite!

Preparing the Dough for the Best Cinnamon Roll Recipe

The dough is the heart of any Best Cinnamon Roll Recipe. It should be soft, slightly chewy, and enriched with butter and eggs for maximum flavor.

1️⃣ Activate the Yeast

1. In a large mixing bowl, add ¾ cup warm milk (110°F or 43°C).
2. Sprinkle 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast over the warm milk.
3. Add ¼ cup granulated sugar and stir gently.
4. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, until it becomes foamy and bubbly. (This confirms the yeast is active.)

2️⃣ Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. Add 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk to the yeast mixture.
2. Pour in ¼ cup melted unsalted butter.
3. Whisk everything together until smooth.

3️⃣ Add the Dry Ingredients & Knead the Dough

1. Gradually add 3 cups all-purpose flour and ¾ teaspoon salt, mixing as you go.
2. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
   • Shortcut: If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for 5 minutes with a dough hook.

4️⃣ Let the Dough Rise

1. Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Pro Tip: If your kitchen is cold, preheat the oven to 170°F (75°C), turn it off, and let the dough rise inside.

Making the Best Cinnamon Roll Recipe Filling

This rich, buttery filling creates the classic gooey cinnamon swirl in every bite!

1️⃣ Mix the Ingredients

In a bowl, combine:
½ cup softened butter
¾ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2️⃣ Stir Until Smooth

Use a spoon or spatula to mix until it forms a spreadable paste.

Rolling and Cutting the Dough for Perfect Best Cinnamon Roll Recipe

1️⃣ Roll Out the Dough

1. Once the dough has risen, lightly flour a clean surface.
2. Roll the dough into a 14×9-inch rectangle (about ¼ inch thick).

2️⃣ Spread the Cinnamon Filling

1. Evenly spread the cinnamon-sugar filling over the dough using a spatula or spoon.
2. Leave a ½-inch border around the edges to prevent spillage.

Baking the Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

1️⃣ Arrange the Rolls in a Baking Dish

1. Place the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving space between them.

2️⃣ Bake the Rolls

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the tops are golden brown and the centers are cooked through.

3️⃣ Optional: Add Extra Gooeyness

For extra soft rolls, pour ½ cup warm heavy cream over them before baking. This makes them super moist and rich!

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting Best Cinnamon Roll Recipe

1️⃣ Mix the Ingredients

In a bowl, beat together:
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

2️⃣ Beat Until Smooth

Use a hand mixer or whisk to beat until creamy and spreadable.

3️⃣ Spread Over Warm Rolls

Once the rolls are slightly cooled, spread the frosting generously over the top.

Now you have the most soft, fluffy, and gooey homemade Best Cinnamon Roll Recipe! 🎉

Pro Tips to Perfect the Best Cinnamon Roll Recipe

Now that you know how to make soft and gooey homemade Best Cinnamon Roll Recipe, let’s go over some expert baking tips to ensure they turn out perfect every time!

How to Get Soft and Fluffy Best Cinnamon Roll Recipe

A great Best Cinnamon Roll Recipe should be light, airy, and melt-in-your-mouth soft. Here’s how to achieve that texture:

Use Warm Liquid (110°F/43°C): If the milk is too hot, it will kill the yeast; if it’s too cold, the yeast won’t activate. Always aim for a warm (but not hot) temperature.

Knead Properly: Under-kneading leads to dense rolls, while over-kneading can make them tough. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic (about 8 minutes by hand or 5 minutes in a mixer).

Give the Dough Enough Time to Rise: Rushing the rising process will result in dense rolls. Let the dough double in size before rolling it out.

Don’t Use Too Much Flour: Adding too much flour makes the dough dry. Stick to the recommended amount and add extra flour only if the dough is too sticky to handle.

How to Make Best Cinnamon Roll Recipe Extra Gooey

The Best Cinnamon Rolls Recipe are moist and rich on the inside. Here are some secrets to achieving that gooey goodness:

Use Heavy Cream: Pour ½ cup warm heavy cream over the rolls before baking. This soaks into the dough, making them incredibly moist.

Don’t Overbake: Bake just until the tops are lightly golden brown. Overbaking will dry out the rolls. If you’re unsure, check the rolls at 20 minutes and bake a few extra minutes if needed.

Use Softened Butter for the Filling: Instead of melted butter, spread softened butter over the dough before adding cinnamon-sugar. This prevents the filling from leaking out while baking.

More Cinnamon-Sugar = More Gooeyness: If you love extra sticky, caramelized filling, increase the butter and sugar in the filling by 25%.

Brush the Rolls with Butter After Baking: This adds moisture and enhances the flavor.

Overnight Cinnamon Rolls: Make Them Ahead

Want to prep these the night before and bake them fresh in the morning? Follow these steps:

Follow the recipe until the rolls are shaped and placed in the baking dish.
Bake as usual at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes.

📌 Why Make Overnight Cinnamon Rolls?
Saves time in the morning
Enhances the flavor (the dough develops overnight!)
Perfect for weekends or special occasions

How to Reheat Cinnamon Rolls

Microwave: Heat for 20–30 seconds for a soft, fresh-out-of-the-oven texture.
Oven: Warm at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to refresh the texture.
Extra Tip: Add a tiny bit of milk or butter before reheating to keep them moist!

Bonus: Fun Cinnamon Roll Variations

Want to switch things up? Try these delicious variations!
Nutty Cinnamon Rolls: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls: Replace ¼ cup of the butter with pumpkin puree for a fall-inspired treat.
Maple Pecan Rolls: Swap vanilla for maple extract and top with maple glaze.
Apple Cinnamon Rolls: Layer thinly sliced apples inside the filling for an apple pie twist!

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced bakers can run into problems when making cinnamon rolls. If you want to perfect the best cinnamon roll recipe, it’s essential to avoid common mistakes. Here are the most frequent baking errors and how to fix them to ensure your best cinnamon roll recipe turns out soft, fluffy, and delicious every time! Whether it’s kneading the dough properly, getting the right rise, or achieving that gooey center, these expert tips will help you master the best cinnamon roll recipe like a pro.

1️⃣ Dough Issues: Why Is My Dough Too Dry or Too Sticky?

Problem: The dough is too dry and stiff, making the rolls dense.
Solution: This usually happens if you add too much flour. Start with the recommended 3 cups of flour and add more only if necessary. The dough should be slightly sticky but still manageable.

Problem: The dough is too wet and sticky, making it hard to roll out.
Solution: Add small amounts of flour (1 tablespoon at a time) until it becomes easier to handle. Be careful not to overdo it, or the rolls will be tough.

📌 Expert Tip: Weather and humidity affect dough texture! If baking in a humid climate, you may need a little more flour. In dry climates, you might need less flour or slightly more liquid.

2️⃣ Why Didn’t My Cinnamon Rolls Recipe Rise?

Problem: The dough didn’t puff up during the first or second rise.
Solution: Your yeast might be dead. Always proof yeast before using it by dissolving it in warm milk (110°F or 43°C) with sugar. If it doesn’t foam up in 10 minutes, throw it out and start with fresh yeast.

Problem: The kitchen is too cold for the dough to rise.
Solution: Dough rises best in a warm (but not hot) environment. Try these tricks:

• Place the dough in a slightly warm oven (preheat to 170°F, then turn it off before putting the dough inside).
• Let the dough rise on top of the fridge where it’s warmer.

Problem: The second rise didn’t happen properly.
Solution: Always let the shaped cinnamon rolls proof for 30–45 minutes before baking. If they don’t puff up, give them more time!

3️⃣ Baking Problems: Why Are My Cinnamon Rolls Hard or Overbaked?

Problem: The rolls are too hard and dry after baking.
Solution: This happens if the rolls are overbaked. Always bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes and check at the 20-minute mark.

Problem: The rolls didn’t bake evenly, with some parts raw and doughy.
Solution: Your oven might not distribute heat evenly. To fix this:

• Bake in the center rack of the oven.
• If needed, rotate the pan halfway through baking.

📌 Expert Tip: For extra soft rolls, brush the tops with melted butter immediately after baking!

4️⃣ Why Is My Cinnamon Filling Leaking Out?

Problem: The cinnamon-sugar filling oozes out while baking.
Solution: This happens if the butter was melted instead of softened. Always use softened butter for the filling, so it sticks to the dough instead of melting too fast.

Problem: The filling is too dry and grainy.
Solution: Make sure to mix the butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until it forms a smooth paste. This will help it spread evenly.

5️⃣ Frosting Mistakes: Why Is My Frosting Too Runny or Too Thick?

Problem: The frosting is too runny and won’t stay on the rolls.
Solution: Add more powdered sugar (1 tablespoon at a time) until it thickens.

Problem: The frosting is too thick and won’t spread smoothly.
Solution: Add a teaspoon of milk at a time until it reaches the right consistency.

Problem: The frosting disappears when spread over the rolls.
Solution: Always frost warm, but not hot rolls. If the rolls are too hot, the frosting will melt too fast.

Final Troubleshooting Summary

With these troubleshooting tips, your cinnamon rolls will turn out perfect every time! 🎉

For more delicious comfort food recipes, try this Easy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole for a cheesy and hearty meal, explore the rich flavors of Mexican Soup: Traditional Recipes & Serving Tips, or indulge in a creamy pasta dish with this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo—perfect comfort meals to pair with your homemade cinnamon rolls! 🍽️

Frequently Asked Questions

1️⃣ Which of the following are common mistakes made when preparing cinnamon rolls?

There are several common mistakes that can lead to dense, dry, or underwhelming cinnamon rolls. Here are some of the biggest ones:

❌ Using too much flour: Adding too much flour makes the dough dry and tough. The dough should be slightly sticky but still manageable. Always add flour gradually.

❌ Not proofing the yeast properly: If your yeast isn’t active, the dough won’t rise, resulting in flat, dense rolls. Always proof yeast in warm milk (110°F/43°C) and check for foaming before using it.

❌ Not allowing the dough to rise fully: Rushing the first or second rise prevents the dough from becoming light and fluffy. Let the dough double in size before rolling it out, and allow the shaped rolls to puff up before baking.

❌ Overbaking the rolls: Cinnamon rolls should be lightly golden brown when done. Baking them too long makes them dry and hard.

❌ Using melted butter in the filling: Melted butter makes the cinnamon-sugar mixture too runny, causing it to leak out during baking. Use softened butter instead.

❌ Frosting too soon: If you spread frosting over hot rolls, it will melt and disappear. Wait until the rolls are warm, not hot, before adding frosting.

2️⃣ Which is better for cinnamon rolls, all-purpose flour or bread flour?

✔️ All-Purpose Flour:

• Produces soft, tender cinnamon rolls with a slightly chewy texture.
• Absorbs liquid well and gives the rolls a delicate crumb.
• Best choice for a classic cinnamon roll texture.

✔️ Bread Flour:

• Contains more protein (gluten), which makes the dough chewier and slightly firmer.
• Helps rolls rise higher and hold their shape better.
• Great if you prefer chewier, more structured cinnamon rolls.

📌 Which One Should You Use?
➡️ For soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls, stick with all-purpose flour.
➡️ For slightly chewier, bakery-style rolls, use a mix of 2½ cups all-purpose flour + ½ cup bread flour.

3️⃣ What happens if you don’t knead cinnamon roll dough enough?

If you don’t knead the dough properly, your cinnamon rolls will be:

❌ Dense and heavy: Kneading develops gluten, which helps trap air during rising. Without enough kneading, the rolls won’t have that soft, fluffy texture.

❌ Flat and deflated: Under-kneaded dough won’t hold its structure, making the rolls collapse after baking.

❌ Tough instead of soft: Proper kneading makes the dough smooth and elastic. If not kneaded enough, it will feel sticky and weak, leading to rolls that don’t bake evenly.

📌 How to Fix It?

• Knead for at least 8–10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes in a stand mixer until the dough is smooth and stretchy.
• Do the windowpane test: Stretch a small piece of dough between your fingers—if it forms a thin, translucent “window” without tearing, it’s ready!

4️⃣ What makes cinnamon rolls soft and fluffy?

✔️ Active yeast & proper rising: Yeast creates air pockets in the dough, making it light and airy. Let the dough rise until doubled in size before shaping.

✔️ Eggs & butter: These enrich the dough, making it soft and tender.

✔️ Kneading enough: Proper kneading helps develop gluten, which gives the rolls a soft, yet slightly chewy texture.

✔️ Not adding too much flour: Too much flour makes the dough stiff and dry. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

✔️ Baking at the right temperature: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes. Overbaking will dry out the rolls.

✔️ Heavy cream trick: Pouring warm heavy cream over the rolls before baking makes them extra soft and gooey!

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls filling your kitchen. With this best cinnamon roll recipe, you can achieve the perfect balance of softness, sweetness, and spice in every bite. Whether you enjoy them warm out of the oven or save some for later, these homemade rolls are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

By following our step-by-step guide, you can create a batch of cinnamon rolls that rival those from any bakery. Pair them with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for the ultimate treat. So, next time you’re craving something sweet and comforting, skip the store-bought versions and bake these delightful rolls from scratch. Your taste buds (and anyone lucky enough to share with you) will thank you!😊

Key Takeaways for the Perfect Cinnamon Rolls:

✔️ Use warm milk (110°F/43°C) and active yeast to create a light, airy dough.
✔️ Knead the dough properly for at least 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
✔️ Let the dough rise fully—both before and after shaping—to ensure softness.
✔️ Use softened, not melted, butter in the cinnamon-sugar filling to prevent leaks.
✔️ Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes—don’t overbake to keep them moist.
✔️ For extra softness, pour warm heavy cream over the rolls before baking.
✔️ Let the rolls cool slightly before frosting to prevent the icing from melting too fast.

Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or make them ahead of time for a special occasion, these cinnamon rolls will always be a crowd-pleaser. Pair them with a warm cup of coffee or tea, and enjoy the perfect homemade treat!

Best Cinnamon Roll Recipe – Soft, Fluffy & Gooey

This best cinnamon roll recipe makes soft, fluffy, and gooey cinnamon rolls packed with a rich cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these homemade cinnamon rolls are easy to make and better than any bakery version!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Dessert

Cuisine American, Swedish-inspired

Servings 12

Equipment

• ✔️ Large mixing bowl
• ✔️ Stand mixer with a dough hook (optional)
• ✔ Measuring cups and spoons
• ✔ Whisk
• ✔️ Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• ✔️ Rolling pin
• ✔️ Sharp knife or dental floss (for cutting rolls)
• ✔ 9×13-inch baking dish
• ✔️ Plastic wrap or kitchen towel (for proofing)
• ✔️ Oven

Ingredients

  

• Dough:
• ¾ cup warm milk 110°F/43°C – Activates the yeast for a soft dough
• 2 ¼ teaspoons 1 packet active dry yeast – Helps the rolls rise
• ¼ cup granulated sugar – Feeds the yeast and adds sweetness
• 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk room temperature – Makes the dough rich and soft
• ¼ cup unsalted butter melted – Adds flavor and tenderness
• 3 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the dough
• ¾ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness
• Cinnamon Filling:
• ½ cup unsalted butter softened – Helps hold the filling inside the rolls
• ¾ cup brown sugar – Provides caramel-like sweetness
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon – Gives that classic warm flavor
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the richness
• Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 4 ounces ½ block cream cheese, softened – Adds creaminess and tang
• ¼ cup unsalted butter softened – For a smooth texture
• 1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor
• Pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness

Instructions

 

• Step 1: Prepare the Dough
• 1️⃣ In a large bowl, whisk warm milk and yeast together. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
• 2️⃣ Add sugar, egg, egg yolk, and melted butter. Mix well.
• 3️⃣ Gradually add flour and salt, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
• 4️⃣ Knead for 8 minutes by hand (or 5 minutes in a stand mixer) until smooth and elastic.
• 5️⃣ Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 to 1½ hours until doubled in size.
• Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Filling
• 1️⃣ In a small bowl, mix butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
• 1️⃣ Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 14×9-inch rectangle.
• 2️⃣ Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a slight border around the edges.
• 3️⃣ Roll the dough tightly into a log shape and pinch the seam to seal it.
• Step 4: Cut & Arrange the Rolls
• 1️⃣ Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal rolls.
• 2️⃣ Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving space between them.
• 3️⃣ Cover with a towel and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes.
• Step 5: Bake the Cinnamon Rolls
• 1️⃣ Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• 2️⃣ Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown on top.
• Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
• 1️⃣ Beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
• 2️⃣ Spread the frosting over warm cinnamon rolls and enjoy!

Notes

✔️ Overnight Option: After cutting the rolls, cover and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature for 1 hour before baking.
✔️ Extra Gooey Trick: Pour ½ cup warm heavy cream over the rolls before baking for extra softness.
✔️ Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
✔️ Freezing: Freeze baked rolls (without frosting) for up to 3 months. Thaw and warm before frosting.

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