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Classic Cinnamon Rolls

Indulge in soft, gooey cinnamon rolls perfect for brunch, holidays, or a cozy dessert. This simple recipe uses pantry staples to create tender, cinnamon-rich spirals with a sweet glaze.
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
  • 1/2 cup milk, warmed (about 110–115°F) Too hot kills yeast; too cool slows the rise.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
Filling Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar for filling
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened for spreading
Glaze Ingredients
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk adjust for consistency
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, stir warm milk with 1/2 cup granulated sugar and the yeast. Let sit 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Whisk in the melted butter, eggs, and salt into the yeast mixture.
  3. Gradually add flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a towel, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 1 hour.
Filling and Shaping
  1. Punch down the dough, then roll it into a roughly 12 x 16-inch rectangle.
  2. Spread the 1/4 cup softened butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon, pressing the filling down gently.
  3. Starting at a long edge, roll tightly into a log. Seal the seam with a bit of water and cut into even sections (about 12 rolls).
  4. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish, leaving small gaps. Cover and let rise for 25–30 minutes until puffy.
Baking
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
  2. While rolls are warm, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Thin with more milk if needed.
  3. Drizzle glaze over warm rolls and serve.

Notes

For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with vegan spread and use plant-based milk. Best enjoyed fresh from the oven. Store cooled rolls in an airtight container. Use a metal pan for better heat conduction.