The Best Homemade Cinnamon Roll Recipe

Few things in life are as comforting as the smell of a freshly baked cinnamon roll recipe filling your kitchen. These soft, pillowy rolls, packed with a rich cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a velvety glaze, are the ultimate indulgence.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step cinnamon roll recipe that ensures fluffy, gooey, and perfectly spiced rolls every time. You’ll learn how to make the dough, roll it out, bake it to golden perfection, and top it with a delicious icing made with natural vanilla seeds instead of extract.

This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers. Whether you’re making these for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion, these homemade cinnamon rolls will quickly become a family favorite. Let’s get started!

Introduction to Cinnamon Roll Recipe

What Makes a Perfect Cinnamon Roll?

A perfect cinnamon roll is soft, fluffy, and packed with flavor. But achieving that bakery-style texture at home requires a few key techniques:

• Proper dough hydration – The right balance of wet and dry ingredients ensures a tender bite.
• Even rolling and filling – This guarantees each bite is packed with sweet cinnamon goodness.
• Correct baking temperature – Too hot, and they burn; too cool, and they don’t bake through.
• A rich, creamy icing – Because what’s a cinnamon roll without that signature drizzle?

Key Ingredients for a Classic Cinnamon Roll Dough

Every cinnamon roll recipe starts with a few simple ingredients:

• Flour – Provides structure and softness.
• Milk – Adds richness and moisture.
• Yeast – Helps the dough rise and become light and fluffy.
• Eggs & Butter – Bring richness and create a tender crumb.
• Cinnamon & Sugar – The heart of the filling, giving that signature warm spice flavor.
• Natural Vanilla Seeds – A flavorful alternative to extract for a deep, aromatic sweetness.

Ingredients and Substitution

A great cinnamon roll recipe starts with high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating soft, fluffy, and flavorful rolls. Below, we’ll cover the essentials and some substitutions to fit different dietary needs.

Essential Ingredients for the Dough

To get that perfect, bakery-style texture, you’ll need:

• All-purpose flour – Provides the right balance of structure and softness.
• Yeast – Instant yeast rises faster, while active dry yeast requires proofing.
• Warm milk – Activates the yeast and creates a rich, tender dough.
• Butter – Adds flavor and helps create that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Sugar – Feeds the yeast and adds just the right amount of sweetness.
• Eggs – Help bind the dough and contribute to its richness.
• Natural vanilla seeds – Offer an authentic, aromatic vanilla flavor without using extract.

Cinnamon-Sugar Filling: How to Get the Perfect Flavor

The filling is what makes these rolls irresistible! Here’s what you’ll need:

• Brown sugar – Adds moisture and deep caramel notes.
• Ground cinnamon – The star ingredient for that signature warm spice.
• Softened butter – Helps the sugar stick and creates a gooey texture.

Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free Substitutions

• Dairy-free option – Use almond or oat milk and replace butter with vegan margarine.
• Gluten-free option – Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix.

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s move on to preparing the dough!

Step-by-Step Cinnamon Roll Recipe Dough Preparation

Making cinnamon roll dough from scratch is easier than you think! Follow these steps to get light, airy, and perfectly fluffy rolls.

Mixing and Kneading the Dough for Softness

1. Activate the yeast – In a bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Combine wet ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, melted butter, and natural vanilla seeds.
3. Mix in the dry ingredients – Slowly add flour and salt to the yeast mixture, then pour in the wet ingredients.
4. Knead the dough – Knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a mixer, knead on medium speed for 5 minutes.

How Long to Let the Dough Rise for the Best Texture

Let the dough rest in a greased bowl, covered, for 60–90 minutes, or until it doubles in size. A warm, draft-free spot helps the dough rise faster.

Tips for Achieving a Fluffy and Light Dough Without Overmixing

• Don’t over-knead – Too much kneading makes the dough tough instead of soft.
• Use fresh yeast – Expired yeast won’t give your rolls the proper rise.
• Let the dough rest – Giving it enough time to rise ensures a light and airy texture.

Once your dough has risen, it’s time to roll it out and add the delicious cinnamon-sugar filling!

Making the Cinnamon Filling

A cinnamon roll recipe wouldn’t be complete without the perfect cinnamon-sugar filling. This is where the magic happens, giving each bite a warm, sweet, and slightly gooey texture.

Best Ratio of Cinnamon, Sugar, and Butter

To create the perfect filling, you’ll need:

• 1 cup of brown sugar – Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
• 2 ½ tablespoons of ground cinnamon – The essential spice for that rich, warm flavor.
• ½ cup of softened butter – Helps the sugar melt into the dough, creating that irresistible gooey texture.

For a bolder taste, you can adjust the cinnamon-to-sugar ratio, adding a little extra spice if you love a stronger cinnamon kick.

How to Properly Spread the Filling for Even Flavor

• Roll out the dough evenly into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
• Spread softened butter over the dough, making sure to reach the edges.
• Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly, pressing it lightly into the dough so it sticks.

Secret Ingredient Hacks for Extra Richness

Want to take your filling to the next level? Try adding:

• A pinch of salt – Enhances the sweetness.
• A teaspoon of cocoa powder – Gives a deeper, slightly chocolatey undertone.
• A drizzle of honey – Helps caramelize the sugar for an extra gooey center.

Now that the filling is ready, let’s roll and cut the dough!

Rolling and Cutting the Cinnamon Roll Recipe

Now that your dough is covered in a delicious layer of cinnamon-sugar filling, it’s time to roll it up and cut it into perfect spirals.

How to Roll the Dough for Perfect Layers

1. Start from the longer edge – Gently roll the dough into a tight log.
2. Keep the roll even – Apply light pressure to avoid squeezing out the filling.
3. Seal the edge – Pinch the seam closed to keep the rolls from unraveling while baking.

Cutting Techniques: Knife vs. Floss Method

To get evenly sized rolls without squishing them, use one of these methods:

• Sharp knife method – Use a serrated knife and cut with a gentle sawing motion.
• Floss method – Slide a piece of unflavored dental floss under the roll, cross the ends, and pull to cut cleanly.

Ensuring Even-Sized Rolls for Consistent Baking

For uniform baking, cut the dough into 1.5-inch slices and arrange them in a buttered baking dish with a little space between each roll. This allows them to expand while baking.

The Perfect Bake: Oven Temperature and Timing

Now that your cinnamon rolls are shaped and ready, it’s time to bake them to golden perfection. The right oven temperature and timing make all the difference in achieving that soft, fluffy texture with a slightly crisp, caramelized edge.

Preheating and Best Temperature for Baking Cinnamon Rolls

Baking requires precision, and preheating your oven is a crucial step. Follow these tips:

• Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) for evenly baked, soft rolls.
• Use the middle rack to ensure heat distributes properly.
• If your oven has hot spots, rotate the pan halfway through for even browning.

How to Avoid Overbaking or Undercooking

Overbaked cinnamon rolls turn dry, while underbaking leaves the centers doughy. Here’s how to get it just right:

• Check at the 18-minute mark – Rolls should look golden brown on top.
• Use a thermometer – The internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C).
• Cover with foil if needed – If the tops brown too quickly, loosely cover the rolls with aluminum foil for the remaining bake time.

The Role of Steam in Achieving Soft, Moist Rolls

A little steam keeps cinnamon rolls extra soft:

• Place a small pan of hot water on the lower oven rack while baking.
• Lightly brush the rolls with melted butter when they come out for extra moisture.

Once baked, let them cool for 10 minutes before adding the icing. Speaking of icing, let’s move on to the best frosting for your cinnamon roll recipe!

Making the Icing for Cinnamon Roll Recipe

A delicious cinnamon roll recipe wouldn’t be complete without a smooth, creamy icing. This version skips extract and instead uses natural vanilla seeds for an authentic, deep vanilla flavor.

Choosing the Right Icing for Your Cinnamon Rolls

There are a few ways to top your rolls:

• Classic powdered sugar glaze – Simple, sweet, and melts right into warm rolls.
• Cream cheese frosting – Rich, tangy, and ultra-luxurious.
• Milk-based icing – Light and slightly thinner, perfect for a delicate drizzle.

For this recipe, we’ll make a smooth, spreadable glaze with natural vanilla seeds.

Alternative Flavoring Ideas

Instead of extract, try these natural alternatives:

• Vanilla bean paste – Has an intense vanilla flavor and visible specks.
• Maple syrup – Adds warmth and depth to the frosting.
• Honey – Brings a floral sweetness that pairs well with cinnamon.

How to Make a Natural Vanilla Bean Frosting

You’ll need:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk or cream
• 2 tablespoons softened butter
• ½ teaspoon natural vanilla seeds

Whisk everything until smooth, then drizzle over warm rolls. For extra richness, add a pinch of salt or a splash of heavy cream.

FAQs About Cinnamon Roll Recipe

What can I use in cinnamon rolls?

You can use natural vanilla seeds, vanilla bean paste, maple syrup, or honey for a rich, aromatic flavor.

How do I make cinnamon rolls extra soft and fluffy?

To achieve soft, pillowy rolls, make sure to knead the dough properly, let it rise in a warm place, and avoid overbaking. Brushing the rolls with melted butter right after baking also helps keep them moist.

Can I make the dough the night before and bake in the morning?

Yes! After rolling and cutting the cinnamon rolls, cover and refrigerate them overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as usual.

What’s the best way to prevent cinnamon rolls from drying out?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If reheating, pop them in the microwave for 10–15 seconds with a damp paper towel to restore moisture.

What is the hardest buttercream to make?

Swiss and Italian meringue buttercream are considered the hardest to make because they require precise temperature control and careful whipping of egg whites and sugar syrup to achieve the perfect texture.

Conclusion

Making homemade cinnamon rolls is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and your taste buds with joy. With the right techniques—kneading the dough properly, allowing enough rise time, and baking at the perfect temperature—you’ll achieve soft, gooey, and flavorful rolls every time. Plus, using natural vanilla seeds instead of extract gives them an extra depth of flavor.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love trying other sweet and indulgent treats. Check out this chocolate crepe roll cake recipe for another delightful homemade dessert.

Now, it’s time to preheat that oven and start baking. Happy baking, and enjoy your freshly made cinnamon rolls!

The Best Homemade Cinnamon Roll Recipe

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• Author: Olly
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 rolls 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Few things in life are as comforting as the smell of a freshly baked cinnamon roll filling your kitchen. These soft, pillowy rolls, packed with a rich cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a velvety glaze, are the ultimate indulgence.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 cup warm milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup softened butter (for filling)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk or cream
• 2 tablespoons softened butter (for icing)
• 1/2 teaspoon natural vanilla seeds

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. In another bowl, whisk eggs, melted butter, and natural vanilla seeds.
3. Gradually add flour and salt to the yeast mixture, then incorporate the wet ingredients.
4. Knead dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Let the dough rise in a greased bowl for 60-90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
6. Roll dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
7. Spread softened butter over the dough.
8. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle over buttered dough.
9. Roll the dough into a tight log and pinch the seam closed.
10. Cut into 1.5-inch slices and place in a buttered baking dish.
11. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown.
12. Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, softened butter, and natural vanilla seeds to make the icing.
13. Drizzle icing over warm cinnamon rolls and enjoy!

Notes

For extra gooey cinnamon rolls, add a small pan of hot water to the oven while baking.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 roll
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: cinnamon rolls, homemade, baking, sweet rolls, breakfast