Go Back

Cinnamon Sweet Rolls

Soft, pillowy sweet rolls filled with cinnamon-sugar and topped with a light glaze, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup whole milk warmed to 110°F
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast one standard packet
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg room temperature
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons whole milk
  • Pinch of salt

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Stand mixer with dough hook or mixing by hand
  • Rolling pin
  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • Kitchen scale
  • Pastry brush
  • Small saucepan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wire rack for cooling

Method
 

  1. Pour warmed milk into a large mixing bowl and sprinkle yeast over the top. Let sit for 1 minute, then stir gently to activate the yeast.
  2. Add granulated sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture and stir until combined.
  3. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed for 8 to 10 minutes until dough is smooth and slightly sticky.
  4. Transfer dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. While dough rises, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until well combined.
  6. Turn risen dough onto a floured surface and roll into a 12x9-inch rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick.
  7. Spread cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Roll tightly from the long side and pinch seam to seal.
  8. Cut the log into 12 equal 1-inch slices and place cut-side up in a buttered 9x13-inch pan, spacing them evenly.
  9. Cover rolls with plastic wrap and let rise for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy and nearly touching.
  10. Preheat oven to 375°F and bake rolls for 18 to 22 minutes until light golden brown.
  11. While rolls bake, melt butter in a small saucepan, then whisk in powdered sugar, vanilla, salt, and milk until glaze is smooth and pourable.
  12. Remove rolls from oven and let cool for 3 to 5 minutes, then pour glaze over warm rolls and serve.

Notes

Make-ahead: Prepare through step 9 and refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor, then bake directly from the fridge, adding 5 to 7 minutes to the baking time.