Easy Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re craving a soft, fluffy, and irresistibly sweet treat, these Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are exactly what you need. This beloved recipe combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon-spiced dough with a rich, tangy cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any cozy gathering, these rolls are easy to make from scratch and will have your home smelling like a bakery in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortlessly delicious: This recipe balances quick preparation with mouthwatering results that taste like they took hours.
• Soft and fluffy texture: The dough is light and tender, making every bite feel like a warm hug.
• Perfectly sweet and tangy: The cream cheese frosting adds a luscious finish that brightens the cinnamon flavor.
• Great for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday, weekend brunch, or a simple treat, these rolls impress every time.
• Customizable and adaptable: You can tweak the recipe easily to match your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe is straightforward but essential for achieving that perfect texture, flavor, and appearance. From pantry staples to creamy dairy, each one plays a specific role in creating those dreamy rolls you can’t resist.

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure and chewiness to the dough, creating a soft crumb.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps feed the yeast for a nice rise.
• Instant yeast: Activates quickly to make the dough fluffy and airy without extra fuss.
• Warm milk: Adds moisture and richness, ensuring the dough stays tender.
• Butter: Adds flavor and makes the dough soft and tender.
• Eggs: Enhance texture and color, boosting the dough’s elasticity.
• Cinnamon: The star spice that gives the rolls their warm, aromatic filling.
• Brown sugar: Caramelizes inside the rolls, adding depth and sweetness to the swirl.
• Cream cheese: Essential for the frosting’s tangy smoothness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting without making it grainy.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the creamy frosting with a subtle, warm sweetness.

Variations for Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

This Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe is a fantastic base that you can easily adapt to fit your personal style or dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make these rolls truly your own.

• Nutty twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a delightful crunch and flavor complexity.
• Fruit-filled rolls: Incorporate raisins, dried cranberries, or even thinly sliced apples for a fruity surprise.
• Gluten-free version: Substitute with gluten-free flour blends to enjoy these rolls without the gluten.
• Vegan adaptation: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and flax eggs to keep rolls moist and flavorful.
• Spiced up: Mix in nutmeg or cardamom with the cinnamon to heighten the warmth and aroma.

How to Make Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by combining warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl, allowing it to foam for about 5 minutes. Then add melted butter, eggs, and flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes by hand or with a mixer until smooth and elastic, then cover and let it rise until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the dough rises, mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Melt some butter to brush over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top. This step ensures a sweet, gooey cinnamon layer inside every roll.

Step 3: Roll and Slice

Roll the dough out into a large rectangle, spread the melted butter, and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 12 equal-sized rolls and place them into a greased baking pan.

Step 4: Final Rise and Bake

Let the sliced rolls rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the rolls bake, beat softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and fluffy. Adjust sweetness to taste. Spread this luscious frosting over the warm rolls right after they come out of the oven.

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Use warm, not hot milk: Too hot liquid can kill the yeast, while lukewarm encourages a perfect rise.
• Don’t over-knead: Kneading too long can make the dough tough; stop when it’s soft and elastic.
• Let rolls cool slightly before frosting: This prevents the frosting from melting into a glaze and losing its creaminess.
• Room temperature cream cheese and butter: Ensures a smooth, lump-free frosting every time.
• Cover dough during rising: Use a clean towel or plastic wrap to keep moisture in and your dough soft.

How to Serve Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dusting of cinnamon over the frosted rolls for extra texture and visual appeal. Fresh berries on the side also add a lovely, tart contrast.

Side Dishes

Pair these cinnamon rolls with a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or freshly squeezed orange juice for a perfect breakfast ensemble. For brunch, alongside scrambled eggs or fresh fruit salad works beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the rolls in a rustic wooden board or lined baking dish for a cozy feel. Try stacking a few rolls high on a pretty cake stand or presenting individual rolls wrapped with a ribbon for gifting or parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week to maintain freshness.

Freezing

Freeze unbaked or baked rolls (wrapped tightly) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating to enjoy freshly baked flavor anytime.

Reheating

Warm leftover rolls in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to revive softness and melty frosting goodness.

FAQs

Can I make cinnamon rolls without cream cheese frosting?

Absolutely! You can enjoy the rolls plain, with a simple powdered sugar glaze, or even a drizzle of honey if you prefer less sweetness or a different flavor profile.

How long does it take to make Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting?

From start to finish, including rising and baking time, it typically takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, but much of this is hands-off while the dough rises.

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, but you’ll need to proof active dry yeast first by dissolving it in warm water with a pinch of sugar for about 5-10 minutes until frothy before adding to the dough.

What’s the best way to store leftover frosting?

Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, and give it a quick stir before spreading again as it may thicken.

Can I make cinnamon rolls vegan?

Yes! Substitute dairy milk with plant-based milk, use vegan butter, and replace eggs with flax or chia egg alternatives to keep the rolls soft and delicious.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have this easy and reliable Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe in your back pocket, you’re only a few steps away from creating irresistible, bakery-quality rolls at home. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a cozy weekend treat, these rolls offer comfort, warmth, and happiness in every bite. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and indulge in the magic of homemade cinnamon rolls that everyone will love!

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