Name: Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe for a Cozy Fall Morning
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 55 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (plus more for brushing); ½ cup water, warmed to 110°F; 1 large egg, room temperature; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; ½ cup packed light brown sugar (for filling); 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon (for filling); ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling); 4 ounces cream cheese, softened (for frosting); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for frosting); 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting); 2 tablespoons whole milk (for frosting); ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Hey y'all! If there’s one treat that makes a chilly autumn morning extra special, it’s a batch of homemade, soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls. Warm, gooey, and loaded with sweet cinnamon, these rolls are a delightful way to celebrate cozy weekends, holiday gatherings, or just a simple breakfast treat. They’re easy to make and impossible to resist — so grab your apron and let’s get baking!

Save

Why You'll Love This

Ultimate Comfort Food: These cinnamon rolls are warm, pillowy, and just the right amount of gooey, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
No Mixer Needed: You can whip up this dough with just a bowl and a spoon — perfect for those who want a simple, hands-on baking experience.
Perfect for Make-Ahead: Prep them the night before and bake in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
Customizable: Add nuts, raisins, or top with cream cheese glaze for endless delicious variations.
Foolproof Results: Clear step-by-step instructions ensure picture-perfect, bakery-style rolls every time.

Ingredients

3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (plus more for brushing)
½ cup water, warmed to 110°F
1 large egg, room temperature
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
½ cup packed light brown sugar (for filling)
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon (for filling)
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
4 ounces cream cheese, softened (for frosting)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
2 tablespoons whole milk (for frosting)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 ¼ cups flour, ¼ cup granulated sugar, instant yeast, and ½ teaspoon salt. In a separate bowl, combine the warmed milk, melted butter, water, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until a soft dough forms, adding more flour a tablespoon at a time if it’s too sticky.

Step 2: Knead and Rise

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until elastic and smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

Punch down the dough and roll it into a 15x9 inch rectangle. Spread ¼ cup softened butter over the surface. Mix together ½ cup brown sugar and 2 tablespoons cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the butter. Roll up tightly from the long edge and slice into 12 even rolls.

Step 4: Second Rise

Arrange the rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes, until puffy and touching.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until golden and baked through. Brush with a little extra melted butter off the heat.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

While the rolls cool slightly, beat together cream cheese, 2 tablespoons butter, 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and spreadable.

Step 7: Frost and Enjoy

Slather the warm rolls generously with cream cheese frosting and enjoy immediately for best flavor and texture!

Notes

If your kitchen is chilly, let the dough rise in an oven with the light on or near a warm stove.
You can use bread flour for chewier rolls, but all-purpose keeps them soft and fluffy.
Let the rolls cool for 10 minutes before frosting so the icing doesn’t completely melt.

Variations

Maple Pecan: Add chopped pecans to the filling and a drizzle of maple glaze on top.
Apple Cinnamon: Sprinkle diced, sauteed apples into the filling for a fruit-forward twist.
Chocolate Swirl: Add mini chocolate chips to the cinnamon sugar layer before rolling up.

Required Equipment

Large mixing bowls
Whisk and wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Rolling pin
9x13-inch baking dish
Plastic wrap
Electric mixer (for frosting)
Bench scraper or sharp knife

Storage Instructions

Store cooled cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Warm individual rolls in the microwave for 15-20 seconds before serving. For longer storage, freeze unfrosted rolls in a freezer bag for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and frost after reheating.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Enjoy with a mug of hot coffee or spiced chai for the perfect fall breakfast.
Pair with a fresh fruit salad for a balanced brunch spread.
Serve as a decadent dessert, warmed and topped with extra frosting or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Pro Tips

Use room temperature eggs and butter to help the dough rise evenly.
Check your yeast’s expiration date — old yeast won’t give you that gorgeous rise.
For super soft rolls, cover them with foil at the 15-minute mark if they’re browning too quickly.

FAQ

Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Yes! After slicing the rolls and arranging them in the baking dish, cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. Let come to room temperature and rise before baking in the morning.

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Absolutely — just dissolve the active dry yeast in the warmed milk and water, let it sit for 5 minutes, and proceed as directed.

How do I make sure my rolls stay soft and fresh?

Store rolls in an airtight container and warm briefly before serving. Frosting them while warm also helps lock in moisture!