Homemade Cinnamon Rolls: Soft, Sweet & Perfectly Spiced

Few things are as comforting as the aroma of cinnamon rolls baking in the oven. Soft, pillowy dough whirled with buttery cinnamon sugar and topped with a luscious glaze – it is the ultimate treat for chilly mornings, brunch gatherings or simply when you need a little extra cosiness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft & Fluffy: The dough bakes into tender, melt-in-your-mouth rolls. 
• Richly Spiced: A buttery cinnamon filling gives that warm, autumnal flavour.
• Perfect for Sharing: Bake a panful and watch them disappear in minutes. 

Ingredients (Makes 12 Rolls)

For the Dough:

• 500g strong white bread flour
• 7g instant yeast
• 75g sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 240ml warm milk
• 75g unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs

For the Filling:

• 100g unsalted butter, softened 
• 200g light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Glaze:

• 120g icing sugar 
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a bowl, mix warm milk, sugar and yeast. Let this sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add melted butter, eggs and salt, then mix in flour gradually.
3. Knead by hand or with a dough hook for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place in a greased bowl, cover and let it rise 1-2 hours until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Rolls

1. Roll dough into a rectangle (approx. 35 x 25 cm).
2. Spread softened butter evenly over the surface.
3. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle generously over butter.
4. Roll up tightly from the long edge into a log.
5. Slice into 12 even pieces and place in a greased baking dish.

Step 3: Second Rise

1. Cover and let rise another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
2. Preheat the oven to 180°C.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Glaze

1. Mix icing sugar, milk and vanilla to form a smooth glaze.
2. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls

• Make Ahead: Prepare the rolls the night before, cover and refrigerate. Let them come to room temperature and rise before baking in the morning.
• Extra Gooey: Pour a little cream over the rolls before baking for a richer texture.
• Add-Ins: Sprinkle chopped pecans, raisins or apple pieces with the cinnamon sugar.
• Frosting Swap: Cream cheese frosting is a delicious alternative to glaze.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy warm from the oven with a hot coffee, spiced apple tea or a pumpkin spice latte. These rolls are pure comfort food and perfect for autumn and winter gatherings.