Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
The Best Classic Cinnamon Rolls Recipe: A Grandma-Style Treat

The Best Classic Cinnamon Rolls Recipe: A Grandma-Style Treat


  • Author: Helen
  • Total Time: 195
  • Yield: 12 rolls 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Warm, gooey cinnamon rolls with a soft, fluffy dough swirled in sweet cinnamon and brown sugar, topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese icing. The perfect weekend breakfast or cozy treat, made with simple ingredients and a little patience for the perfect rise. Easy to follow, this recipe delivers classic homemade flavor every time.


Ingredients

Scale

4 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for dough) + 2 tablespoons (for yeast activation)
1 cup whole milk
1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
4 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
2 cups powdered sugar
12 tablespoons whole milk (for icing)


Instructions

Heat milk to 110°F (40°C). Dissolve yeast and 2 tablespoons sugar in warm milk; let rest 5–7 minutes
Mix flour, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt in a bowl. Add yeast mixture and 1/2 cup softened butter
Knead dough on floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Let rise in warm place for 1 hour or until doubled
Roll dough into 14×10 inch rectangle. Spread with remaining softened butter, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon
Cut into 8 equal squares, then each square into 2 triangles. Roll tightly from wide end, place in baking dish with seams down
Let rise 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake 25–30 minutes until golden
Combine cream cheese, 1/4 cup softened butter, powdered sugar, and milk for icing. Spread over cooled rolls

Notes

Use unbleached flour for best texture
Ensure rising area is warm (near oven/closer to radiator)
For dairy-free, substitute butter and milk with vegan alternatives
Icing dries quickly; prepare just before serving

  • Prep Time: 45
  • Cook Time: 25
  • Category: Bread & Baking
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 roll
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 29g
  • Fiber: 0.8g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg