If you have ever wished for a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth treat to brighten your morning or cozy up your afternoon, this Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Glaze Recipe is exactly what you need. These cinnamon rolls boast a tender, pillowy texture that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, while the sweet, spiced filling creates the perfect balance of rich flavors. The creamy glaze drizzled on top adds a luscious finish that transforms these rolls from simple to spectacular. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious newbie, this recipe promises a gratifying baking adventure and a delicious reward.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the first step toward cinnamon roll perfection. Each component here plays an essential role, from the yeast that brings the dough to life, to the cinnamon and brown sugar that fill it with warming flavor, and the glaze that ties everything together with just the right sweetness and creaminess.
- 4 cups all-purpose flour: The base for your soft dough, choose good-quality to get the perfect texture.
- 1 package instant yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons): Helps your dough rise beautifully and become fluffy.
- 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F or 45°C): Activates the yeast and keeps the dough tender.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough itself.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Makes the dough rich and soft.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Adds structure and moisture to your rolls.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the dough.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling): Creates a luscious layer inside each roll.
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (for filling): Offers caramel notes that pair beautifully with cinnamon.
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon (for filling): The star spice that provides the signature warmth.
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (for glaze): Provides sweetness and smooth texture for glazing.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze): Enhances the flavor of the glaze.
- 3–4 tablespoons milk (for glaze): Creates the perfect consistency for drizzling.
How to Make Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Activate the yeast
Begin by mixing the warm milk, sugar, and instant yeast in a large bowl. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This shows your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic creating that joyful rise.
Step 2: Combine wet ingredients
Next, add the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract into the yeast mixture. Mix them thoroughly until smooth. These ingredients enrich the dough, making it tender and flavorful from the start.
Step 3: Form the dough
Gradually sprinkle in the flour and salt as you mix. Keep going until all the flour is incorporated and you’ve formed a slightly sticky dough. This part requires patience but it’s crucial for your rolls’ soft texture.
Step 4: Knead to perfection
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for 5 to 7 minutes. The goal here is to develop elasticity so that the dough can stretch as it rises, resulting in those airy, soft layers.
Step 5: First rise
Place your kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and set it in a warm spot. Let it rise until it doubles in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours. This first rise is where all the magic happens, so be patient and let your dough bloom.
Step 6: Prepare the filling
In a small bowl, blend the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon into a smooth mixture. This filling is what gives your rolls those irresistible swirls of sticky, spiced sweetness.
Step 7: Roll out the dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it into a large rectangle measuring approximately 12 by 18 inches. The even size will help you create uniform rolls that bake evenly.
Step 8: Spread the filling
Evenly spread your cinnamon-sugar butter mixture all over the rolled dough, covering every inch for that perfect cinnamon swirl in each bite.
Step 9: Roll it up
Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Keeping it snug ensures the rolls hold their shape and showcase beautiful spirals.
Step 10: Cut and arrange
Slice the log into 12 equal pieces and arrange them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Give them a little breathing room but keep them somewhat close for that soft, pull-apart texture.
Step 11: Second rise
Cover the dish with a clean cloth and let the cinnamon rolls rise for another 30 minutes. This final rise helps them puff up and resist becoming tough during baking.
Step 12: Bake to golden perfection
Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. That warm, inviting color signals they’re ready to charm your taste buds.
Step 13: Prepare the creamy glaze
While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. This glaze will add a luscious finishing touch that balances the spiced filling perfectly.
Step 14: Glaze and enjoy
Remove the cinnamon rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly before drizzling the creamy glaze on top. Watching it melt into the warm rolls is pure joy — every bite rich, soft, and irresistibly sweet.
How to Serve Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, consider sprinkling some chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze for a delightful crunch. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh berries can add a charming rustic touch if you want to impress guests.
Side Dishes
These rolls pair wonderfully with a hot cup of freshly brewed coffee or spiced chai tea for a cozy pairing. For a more substantial brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or a creamy yogurt parfait to balance sweetness with freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful by assembling individual cinnamon roll sliders, perfect for sharing at parties. Alternatively, stack rolls on a tiered tray for a stunning breakfast centerpiece, or serve warm cinnamon roll bread pudding using leftovers for a delightful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Soft cinnamon rolls with creamy glaze taste just as amazing the next day. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain softness. If you want to keep them a bit longer, refrigeration helps but may slightly firm up the dough.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze unglazed cinnamon rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake fresh, then add glaze.
Reheating
Reheat rolls gently in the microwave for about 20 seconds to regain their softness, or warm in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. Drizzle a little extra glaze or butter after reheating to recreate that freshly baked experience.
FAQs
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Absolutely! Just dissolve active dry yeast in warm milk with the sugar and let it bloom for about 5-10 minutes before mixing it into the dough. Adjustments in time might be needed for rising.
How do I make the rolls extra soft?
The key is not over-flouring the dough and allowing enough rise time. Also, using warm milk and melted butter helps create a delicate crumb that stays tender after baking.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the filling?
Yes! Tossing in chopped nuts or plump raisins with the cinnamon sugar adds interesting texture and flavor variations. Just be sure to sprinkle them evenly before rolling the dough.
What milk can I use for the glaze?
Any kind of milk works — whole, skim, or even plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk. Just adjust the quantity to keep the glaze smooth and drizzle-friendly.
How long can I let the rolls rise?
It’s best to let the dough rise until doubled in size, typically 1 to 1.5 hours for the first rise and 30 minutes for the second. However, you can slow the rise by refrigerating overnight for a deeper flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Glaze Recipe is a real treasure to have in your baking repertoire. The combination of tender dough, spiced sugar filling, and that luscious glaze will comfort and impress everyone lucky enough to have a bite. I encourage you to roll up your sleeves, dive into the process, and savor the wonderful aromas and flavors of homemade cinnamon rolls. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a warm staple in your kitchen for years to come.
