Famous Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze
These classic cinnamon rolls are incredibly soft, rich, and filled with a sweet cinnamon swirl, then finished with a smooth cream cheese glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special treat.
Ingredients
Dough
- 3¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup warm whole milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Cinnamon Filling
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Cream Cheese Glaze
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2¼ cups of the flour with the yeast, sugar, and salt. Slowly pour in the warm milk, melted butter, and egg, stirring until a soft, sticky dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes, gradually adding the remaining flour as needed, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
While the dough rises, prepare the filling by mixing the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
Roll the risen dough into a 16 × 10-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the surface. Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal rolls.
Arrange the rolls in a greased 9 × 13-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and fully baked.
Meanwhile, whisk together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth and creamy.
Spread the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls and serve fresh for the best flavor and texture.
