Make the Best Giant Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Recipe with Cream Cheese Icing: Easy & Hearty for Family Brunch

On my busiest mornings, nothing beats the aroma of fresh baking—stick with me, and I’ll show you how to create pure magic. That Sunday morning craving for something warm, sweet, and utterly comforting? Or maybe it’s a special occasion calling for a showstopper. This Giant Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Recipe with Cream Cheese Icing transforms a simple breakfast into an unforgettable family treat. Perfect for busy parents who want to create magic without the fuss, or for anyone who loves a good baking project. We’ve perfected this recipe over countless brunches, making it a true crowd-pleaser.

What You’ll Need (Ingredients & Their Roles)

For a truly amazing Giant Fluffy Cinnamon Roll, quality ingredients make all the difference. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to gather:

• All-purpose flour: 4 cups (480g) – Provides the essential structure for our dough.
• Active dry yeast: 2 ¼ teaspoons (7g) – This is our secret to making them rise wonderfully fluffy.
• Warm milk (105-115°F / 40-46°C): 1 cup (240ml) – Activates the yeast and adds moisture.
• Granulated sugar: ½ cup (100g) for dough, a pinch for yeast – Sweetens the dough and feeds the yeast.
• Unsalted butter, softened: ½ cup (113g) for dough, ½ cup (113g) for filling, ¼ cup (57g) for icing – Adds richness, tender crumb, and helps create that dreamy filling and icing.
• Large eggs: 2 – Binds ingredients and contributes to richness and color.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon – Balances flavors in the dough.
• Light brown sugar, packed: 1 cup (200g) for filling – Forms the classic sweet, caramelized filling.
• Ground cinnamon: 2 tablespoons for filling – The iconic spice for that warm, comforting flavor.
• Cream cheese, softened: 4 oz (113g) for icing – The star of our tangy, smooth cream cheese icing.
• Powdered sugar: 2 cups (240g) for icing – Provides sweetness and structure for the icing.
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon for icing – Enhances the overall flavor of the icing.

Looking for flexible substitutions or budget-friendly swaps? You can easily adapt this recipe to fit your needs. For a dairy-free Giant Fluffy Cinnamon Roll, use plant-based milk and butter alternatives. While not strictly gluten-free, a “cup-for-cup” gluten-free flour blend can be used, though you might need to adjust liquids slightly. If you’re low on one type of sugar, a mix of white and brown sugar can work for the filling.

For those mindful of healthier choices, consider using organic flour and dairy products for higher quality. You can also reduce the sugar slightly in both the filling and the icing to your preference. Adding a touch of whole wheat flour (up to 1/4 of total flour) can boost fiber content, making this a more wholesome treat for your family-friendly meals.

Always use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results; especially ensure your yeast is active. Store any leftover Giant Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls airtight at room temperature for 2-3 days, or freeze them un-iced for longer enjoyment, perfect for your meal prep recipes.

Cooking Method, Simplified

Creating these Giant Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls is a rewarding process, and I’ve broken it down into easy, manageable steps:

1. Activate Yeast (5 min): In a small bowl, mix the warm milk, a pinch of granulated sugar, and the active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy – this tells you your yeast is alive and ready!
2. Prepare Dough (15 min prep, 1-1.5 hr rise): In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the remaining dough ingredients (flour, sugar, softened butter, eggs, salt) with the activated yeast mixture. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes with a stand mixer or 10-15 minutes by hand. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
3. Make Filling (5 min): While your dough is rising, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and softened butter in a small bowl. Mix until well combined and spreadable.
4. Roll & Shape (10-15 min): Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle, roughly 18×12 inches (45×30 cm). Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the entire surface, leaving a small border on one long edge. Tightly roll the dough into a log from the long side. Using a sharp, un-serrated knife or dental floss, cut the log into generous 1.5-2 inch (3.8-5 cm) thick rolls.
5. Second Rise (30-45 min): Arrange the cut rolls in a greased 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish, leaving a little space between each. Cover again and let them rise in a warm spot for another 30-45 minutes, or until they look visibly puffy.
6. Bake (25-30 min at 375°F / 190°C): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the Giant Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are cooked through but still soft. Don’t over-bake, or they might dry out!
7. Prepare Icing (5 min): While the rolls are cooling slightly, beat the softened cream cheese, ¼ cup (57g) softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
8. Glaze & Serve: Once the Giant Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls are warm (but not hot), spread a generous amount of the cream cheese icing over them. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Giant Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Recipe with Cream Cheese Icing!

For busy cooks looking for easy dinner ideas or just to save a little time, here are some inline shortcuts: use a stand mixer with a dough hook for kneading to cut down on effort. You can prepare the delicious cinnamon filling while the dough is on its first rise, and whip up the cream cheese icing while the rolls are baking. These quick meals steps help streamline your baking process.

To ensure your Giant Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to avoid: Over-kneading can lead to tough rolls; knead only until the dough is smooth and elastic. Not letting yeast proof means your rolls won’t rise; always check for foaminess. Over-baking will dry them out; watch for golden brown edges. Finally, cutting too thin can prevent that desirable giant fluffy texture; aim for rolls at least 1.5 inches thick.

Perfect Moments to Serve Giant Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Recipe with Cream Cheese Icing

Whether it’s a cozy Sunday brunch, a holiday breakfast showstopper, or a special dessert after a family meal, this Giant Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Recipe with Cream Cheese Icing is always a hit. It transforms simple moments into unforgettable family treats.

Here are some occasion-specific tweaks to make them even more special:

• Kids’ Lunchbox: Pack smaller, cooled rolls for a delightful sweet treat.
• Festive Table: Garnish with candied pecans or orange zest for an elegant touch.
• Meal Prep: Bake ahead and reheat, or assemble the night before and refrigerate for morning baking to simplify busy mornings.

Consider these pairing ideas to complete your spread:

• Sides: A fresh fruit platter, creamy yogurt, or fluffy scrambled eggs.
• Sauces: Offer extra cream cheese icing on the side for those who love a generous swirl.
• Drinks: Classic coffee, a cold glass of milk, refreshing orange juice, or a warm cup of cider.

Nutrition and Wellness Benefits

While often considered an indulgence, our Giant Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Recipe with Cream Cheese Icing provides energy from carbohydrates. It can also be a source of dairy (calcium) and healthy fats (from butter, in moderation) when you consider a balanced plate.

When thinking about popular diets, here’s how this recipe fits in:

• Not typically a low-carb option, but it can certainly be a satisfying treat in moderation.
• As written, it is not gluten-free, but substitutions can be made.
• Can easily be made dairy-free with plant-based milk and butter alternatives.

These rolls are a delightful treat for healthy family meals and can be a satisfying part of your meal prep recipes for a sweet reward. Paired with milk, they can even become a tasty protein-packed snack option.

Everyday Practical Benefits

Making this Giant Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Recipe with Cream Cheese Icing from scratch is often more affordable than buying bakery versions, giving you a wonderful homemade quality without the premium price tag. Plus, this recipe makes a generous batch, perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week.

Here’s how these rolls fit into modern, busy lifestyles:

• Quick Cooking: Using a stand mixer with a dough hook drastically cuts down on kneading time, making dough preparation a breeze.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Excellent for make-ahead meal prep for busy mornings. You can prepare the dough the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
• Portability: Individual rolls are easy to pack for potlucks, picnics, or as a special packed lunch.
• Freezer-Friendly: Both the dough and baked rolls can be frozen, allowing for future enjoyment whenever a craving strikes.

Expert Tips and Flavor Upgrades

Elevate your homemade cinnamon rolls with these techniques to improve taste, texture, and presentation:

• For an even chewier texture, consider using bread flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• Brush the rolls with melted butter just before their second rise; this creates a richer, more golden crust.
• Starting them in a hot oven initially helps the rolls achieve a beautiful, fluffy rise.

Add seasoning or spice profiles for extra variety:

• Incorporate a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg into the cinnamon filling for added warmth.
• Add orange or lemon zest to the cream cheese icing for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• A touch of maple extract in the icing offers a delicious fall twist.

For dietary or allergy adjustments, consider these points for safety and inclusivity:

• When making gluten-free rolls, use a dedicated gluten-free flour blend and be prepared to adjust liquids slightly.
• If severe dairy allergies are a concern, ensure all dairy-free substitutions (milk, butter, cream cheese) are certified allergen-free.

Common Questions Answered

This Giant Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Recipe with Cream Cheese Icing promises to bring warmth and joy to your kitchen, proving that homemade treats are always the best. Don’t wait—gather your ingredients and make these amazing rolls tonight!

For more easy dinner ideas and family-friendly recipes, be sure to save this recipe to your Pinterest board! I’m always delighted to share my favorite ways to make mealtime special and help you with your meal prep recipes for a healthier lifestyle.

Giant Fluffy Cinnamon Roll

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• Author: Amanda Miller
• Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 rolls 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a Giant Fluffy Cinnamon Roll, topped with creamy cream cheese icing. Perfect for a comforting family breakfast or a delightful baking project.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups (480g) All-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (7g) Active dry yeast
• 1 cup (240ml) Warm milk (105-115°F / 40-46°C)
• ½ cup (100g) Granulated sugar for dough, a pinch for yeast
• ½ cup (113g) Unsalted butter, softened, for dough
• ½ cup (113g) Unsalted butter, softened, for filling
• ¼ cup (57g) Unsalted butter, softened, for icing
• 2 Large eggs
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 cup (200g) Light brown sugar, packed, for filling
• 2 tablespoons Ground cinnamon, for filling
• 4 oz (113g) Cream cheese, softened, for icing
• 2 cups (240g) Powdered sugar, for icing
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract, for icing

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Instructions

1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm milk, a pinch of granulated sugar, and the active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. Prepare Dough: In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the remaining dough ingredients (flour, sugar, softened butter, eggs, salt) with the activated yeast mixture. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes with a stand mixer or 10-15 minutes by hand. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
3. Make Filling: While your dough is rising, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and softened butter in a small bowl. Mix until well combined and spreadable.
4. Roll & Shape: Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle, roughly 18×12 inches (45×30 cm). Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the entire surface, leaving a small border on one long edge. Tightly roll the dough into a log from the long side. Using a sharp, un-serrated knife or dental floss, cut the log into generous 1.5-2 inch (3.8-5 cm) thick rolls.
5. Second Rise: Arrange the cut rolls in a greased 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish, leaving a little space between each. Cover again and let them rise in a warm spot for another 30-45 minutes, or until they look visibly puffy.
6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the Giant Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are cooked through but still soft. Don’t over-bake, or they might dry out!
7. Prepare Icing: While the rolls are cooling slightly, beat the softened cream cheese, ¼ cup (57g) softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
8. Glaze & Serve: Once the Giant Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls are warm (but not hot), spread a generous amount of the cream cheese icing over them. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Substitutions & Healthier Choices: For a dairy-free option, use plant-based milk and butter alternatives. A “cup-for-cup” gluten-free flour blend can be used, though liquid adjustments may be needed. You can reduce sugar in the filling and icing to your preference. Consider organic flour and dairy, or add up to 1/4 whole wheat flour for increased fiber.

Storage & Tips: Always use fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially active yeast. Store leftover cinnamon rolls airtight at room temperature for 2-3 days, or freeze un-iced for longer. Avoid over-kneading (tough rolls), not proofing yeast (no rise), over-baking (dry rolls), and cutting too thin (loses fluffiness).

Nutrition Note: Nutritional data is an estimate, as it was not provided in the original article. Values may vary based on exact ingredients and preparation.

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 roll
• Calories: 650
• Sugar: 50g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 90g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: Cinnamon Rolls, Breakfast, Dessert, Sweet Treat, Cream Cheese Icing, Fluffy, Baked