If you’re on the hunt for the most comforting and irresistible breakfast treat, this Cinnamon Roll Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is your new best friend. Soft, fluffy rolls layered with a gooey cinnamon-sugar filling, crowned with a luscious cream cheese frosting that melts just right — this recipe brings all the cozy bakery vibes right into your kitchen. It’s the kind of recipe that turns ordinary mornings into special moments worth savoring, and once you get a whiff of that cinnamon warmth combined with the tangy-sweet frosting, you’ll be hooked for life.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is the first step to creating magic. Every item plays a crucial role: the flour builds structure, the yeast ensures that perfect rise, and the blend of butter and sugar sweetens and softens, while cinnamon adds its signature warmth and spice. Don’t underestimate the frosting ingredients — the cream cheese and butter bring that velvety smooth finish that truly elevates this classic.
- 4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, providing structure and stability.
- 1 packet active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise to fluffy perfection.
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed: Activates the yeast and adds moisture to the dough.
- 1/2 cup sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and tenderizes the dough.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the dough and enhance texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances flavor and strengthens the dough.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: For the filling, bringing melt-in-your-mouth decadence.
- 1 cup brown sugar: Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness to the filling.
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives these rolls their iconic flavor.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy base for the decadent frosting.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Blends with cream cheese to create a smooth frosting.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic depth to the frosting.
- 1-2 tablespoons milk: Adjusts frosting to the perfect spreadable consistency.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining the warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture is frothy—this means the yeast is alive and kicking. Then add melted butter, eggs, and salt, mixing well before gradually incorporating the flour. Stir until a sticky but manageable dough begins to form.
Step 2: Knead and Rise
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This kneading step is key for developing the gluten that gives rolls their soft yet sturdy texture. Afterward, pop the dough into a greased bowl, cover it, and set it aside in a warm place to rise until it has doubled in size—usually about an hour.
Step 3: Create the Filling
While the dough rises, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. This luscious filling is where cinnamon rolls earn their legendary status. Once ready, roll out your risen dough into a large rectangle, and spread this spiced butter evenly across the surface for that perfect gooey layer in every bite.
Step 4: Shape the Rolls
Carefully roll the dough from one long edge to the other, aiming for a tight spiral that will hold the layers neatly together. Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 12 equal pieces. Place the individual rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them, and let them rise once more for a light and fluffy finish—this second rise should take about 30 minutes.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20 to 25 minutes, until the tops are beautifully golden brown and the kitchen smells like heaven. Allow them to cool slightly but not completely—this little wait ensures the frosting will melt into every crevice.
Step 6: Frost Like a Pro
Whip together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Then gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk until your frosting reaches a luscious, spreadable consistency. Slather this over the warm rolls, letting it melt slightly to create that irresistible finish everyone loves.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
While these rolls are stunning on their own, you can elevate them with a sprinkle of finely chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy contrast or a light dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar for that extra wow factor. Fresh berries on the side add both color and an exciting burst of tartness that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Side Dishes
A warm cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk pairs wonderfully with these cinnamon rolls, creating a classic combination that feels just right any time of day. For more substantial fare, try serving with scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad to turn this delightful treat into a well-rounded breakfast or brunch.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving these rolls for a crowd, consider arranging them on a tiered cake stand for eye-catching display or placing each roll in decorative cupcake liners for individual portions that are both pretty and practical. Drizzling some extra cream cheese frosting or a simple caramel sauce over the rolls right before serving takes presentation — and flavor — to the next level.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cinnamon rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, maintaining their softness and flavor. For longer storage, refrigeration is fine for up to a week but may require reheating to revive their fresh-baked texture.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these treats later, they freeze beautifully. Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months — just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To bring cinnamon rolls back to life, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 20-30 seconds until warm and soft. You can add a little extra frosting after reheating for that fresh-from-the-oven freshness everyone craves.
FAQs
Can I use a bread machine to make the dough?
Absolutely! A bread machine can simplify the process by mixing and kneading the dough for you. Just use the dough cycle and follow the recipe steps for filling and shaping once the cycle is complete.
How do I know if my yeast is still good?
When you combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast, it should become frothy within 5-10 minutes. If you see no bubbles or foam, your yeast might be expired or the water too hot or cold.
Can I make the rolls vegan?
Yes, by swapping butter for a plant-based alternative and replacing the eggs with flax eggs or other egg substitutes, you can create a vegan version. Just make sure your cream cheese frosting is vegan, or try a simple powdered sugar glaze instead.
Why didn’t my rolls rise properly?
This can happen if the yeast was inactive, the dough was too cold, or it didn’t have enough time to proof. Make sure to give your dough a warm, draft-free environment for rising and give it time to double in size.
Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Definitely! Prepare the cream cheese frosting a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Bring it to room temperature and give it a quick stir before spreading over the rolls.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is more than just a morning treat — it’s a little slice of happiness you create and share. Its perfect balance of soft dough, rich cinnamon filling, and tangy frosting never fails to delight. I can’t wait for you to try it and make your kitchen smell like a cozy bakery. Happy baking!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Cinnamon Roll recipe yields 12 soft, fluffy rolls filled with a rich cinnamon and brown sugar mixture, topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat, these rolls combine a tender dough with a sweet, spiced filling and a creamy glaze that melts in your mouth.
Ingredients
Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make Dough: Add melted butter, eggs, and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms, incorporating all ingredients thoroughly.
- Knead Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare Filling: In a separate bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well blended to create the filling.
- Shape Rolls: Roll out the risen dough into a large rectangle. Evenly spread the cinnamon filling over the dough, then roll it up tightly along the longer edge. Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish. Cover and let them rise again for 30 minutes.
- Bake Rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from oven and allow them to cool slightly.
- Make Frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk gradually, mixing to a creamy spreadable consistency.
- Frost Rolls: Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm cinnamon rolls for a rich and luscious finish. Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk or substitute some milk with cream.
- You can add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling for extra texture and taste.
- Cover the dough properly while rising to prevent drying out.
- If frosting is too thick, add a little more milk to reach the desired consistency.
