Go Back

Bakery-Style Cinnamon Rolls

Fluffy, gooey cinnamon rolls with rich buttery filling and a smooth cream cheese frosting that taste just like they came out of a bakery oven.
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls

Ingredients
  

For The Dough
  • 1 cup warm milk around 100°F
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/3 cup melted butter
  • 4 cups all purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
For The Filling
  • 1/2 cup softened butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For The Frosting
  • 4 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1/4 cup butter softened
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons milk as needed

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the warm milk, instant yeast, and granulated sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add the eggs and melted butter to the mixture and stir to combine.
  3. Mix in the all-purpose flour and salt. Begin mixing with a spoon, then knead by hand until the dough becomes smooth, stretchy, and slightly tacky.
  4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
  5. While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by mixing together the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in a bowl.
  6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently. Roll it out on a floured surface into a 16 x 12 inch rectangle.
  7. Spread the cinnamon sugar filling evenly over the dough.
  8. Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log. Slice the log into 12 even rolls using a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss.
  9. Place the rolls in a buttered 9 x 13 inch pan. Cover and let rise again for 30 to 45 minutes or until puffy.
  10. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  11. Bake the rolls for 23 to 26 minutes until lightly golden on top.
  12. While the rolls are baking, make the frosting by beating the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, then add milk 1 tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
  13. When the rolls are out of the oven and still warm, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top and serve.

Notes

To prepare ahead, assemble and slice rolls, then refrigerate overnight. Let them sit at room temperature for 45 minutes before baking. Store finished cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze individually and reheat in the microwave for 30 seconds.