The Easiest Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze for a Perfect Family Treat

Tired of complicated baking recipes that promise magic but deliver a mess? I know that feeling all too well, which is why I’m thrilled to share my secret to perfect, stress-free Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe with Cream Cheese Glaze.

Imagine waking up to the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, soft and warm from your oven. It’s easier than you think!

This guide is for busy home cooks who want to create unforgettable moments and delicious treats without stress. We’ll walk you through every step, from dough to irresistible glaze, ensuring perfect, bakery-quality results right in your kitchen.

After years of perfecting, this method guarantees success, even for beginners!

Ingredient Breakdown (with Measurements, Purpose)

Getting your ingredients ready is the first step to truly amazing cinnamon rolls. Here’s what you’ll need for our fluffy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls:

• Active Dry Yeast: 2 ¼ teaspoons (7g) – This is our leavening agent, giving the rolls their signature rise and airy texture.
• Warm Milk: 1 cup (240ml), around 105-115°F (40-46°C) – Activates the yeast. Too hot will kill it, too cold won’t activate it.
• Granulated Sugar: ¼ cup (50g) for dough, plus 1 teaspoon for yeast – Sweetens the dough and feeds the yeast.
• Melted Unsalted Butter: ½ cup (113g) for dough, ¼ cup (57g) for filling – Adds richness and flavor to both the dough and the irresistible filling.
• Large Eggs: 2 – Provide structure and richness, making the dough tender.
• All-Purpose Flour: 4-4 ½ cups (480-540g) – The body of our rolls. Start with 4 and add more if needed.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.

For the luscious Cream Cheese Glaze:

• Softened Cream Cheese: 4 oz (113g) – The tangy base for our dreamy glaze.
• Powdered Sugar: 2 cups (240g) – Provides sweetness and smooth consistency.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon – Adds a lovely aromatic depth.
• Milk or Cream: 2-3 tablespoons – To adjust the glaze to your desired consistency.

Optional add-ins & smart swaps for your filling or glaze:

• Consider brown sugar or maple syrup for the filling for a deeper, caramel-like note.
• Add chopped pecans or raisins to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
• For dairy-free alternatives, use plant-based milk, butter, and cream cheese.

Notes on quality/seasonality: Fresh active dry yeast truly makes a difference in rise. Good quality butter and real vanilla extract will elevate the flavor of your Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe with Cream Cheese Glaze. Always check dairy expiration dates for optimal freshness.

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

Let’s get baking! Here are the steps to create your own amazing cinnamon rolls:

1. Activate the Yeast (5 mins): In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar, and the active dry yeast. Give it a gentle stir. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy – this is your sign that the yeast is alive and ready to make those Homemade Cinnamon Rolls wonderfully fluffy!
2. Mix the Dough (10-15 mins): To the activated yeast mixture, whisk in the remaining ¼ cup sugar, ½ cup melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add 4 cups of all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. It should feel slightly tacky but not overly sticky. Add up to ½ cup more flour, a little at a time, if the dough is too wet.
3. Knead & Rise (10 mins knead, 1-1.5 hours rise): Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. To check, poke the dough; if it springs back, it’s ready. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, usually 1 to 1.5 hours. (Quick tip: A slightly warm, turned-off oven with the door ajar can be a perfect spot to speed up rising.)
4. Prepare the Filling (5 mins): While the dough is rising, mix together the ¼ cup softened butter, ½ cup packed light brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon in a small bowl until well combined.
5. Roll & Shape (15-20 mins): Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle, approximately 18×12 inches. Spread the prepared cinnamon sugar filling evenly over the entire surface, leaving a small border at one of the longer edges. Tightly roll the dough into a log, starting from the longer edge opposite the border. Seal the seam by pinching the dough together.
6. Slice the Rolls (5-10 mins): For perfectly even rolls, I find dental floss works wonders! Slide a piece of unflavored dental floss under the log, cross the ends over the top, and pull to cut. Alternatively, use a very sharp knife. Cut the log into 12 equal slices, about 1 ½ inches thick. Place the slices cut-side up in a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Second Rise (30-45 mins): Cover the baking dish loosely with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel. Let the Homemade Cinnamon Rolls rise again in a warm place for another 30-45 minutes, or until they look puffy and have nearly doubled in size. (Overnight rise variation: At this point, you can cover the dish tightly and refrigerate overnight. Take them out at least 30-60 minutes before baking the next morning to come to room temperature while your oven preheats.)
8. Bake (20-25 mins): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through. They should feel light and springy to the touch.
9. Make the Glaze (5 mins): While the rolls are cooling slightly (but still warm!), prepare your glaze. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add 2-3 tablespoons of milk or cream, beating until the Cream Cheese Glaze reaches your desired pourable consistency.
10. Glaze & Serve: Generously spread the smooth, tangy Cream Cheese Glaze over the warm (but not hot!) Homemade Cinnamon Rolls. Serve immediately and watch them disappear!

Troubleshooting: Dough not rising? Your yeast might be old or the water was too hot or too cold. Rolls too dry? Don’t overbake! I always make sure to pull mine out as soon as they’re golden.

When and How to Use It (Occasions, Storage)

These cinnamon rolls are incredibly versatile and always a hit!

• Occasions: Perfect for special weekend breakfasts, holiday brunches, or a comforting weeknight dessert. They are also fantastic for potlucks, bake sales, or as a thoughtful homemade gift for neighbors. The make-ahead option makes them ideal for busy mornings when you want a fresh treat without the morning rush.
• Serving Ideas: Best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, paired with a hot cup of coffee, a glass of cold milk, or cozy hot cocoa. For a bit of balance, I love adding a side of fresh berries or sliced fruit.

Storage Tips for Your Homemade Cinnamon Rolls:

To keep your delicious Homemade Cinnamon Rolls fresh:

• Room Temperature: Store leftover rolls tightly covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Because of the cream cheese glaze, it’s best to store them in the fridge if keeping longer than two days, for up to 5 days. Ensure they’re well-covered.
• Freezing Unbaked Rolls: After the second rise, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then let them come to room temperature for 30-60 minutes before baking as directed.
• Freezing Baked, Unglazed Rolls: Once baked and cooled, wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature, then reheat and glaze.
• Reheating: Gently reheat baked rolls in the microwave for 15-30 seconds, or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes, until just warmed through. My personal tip: a quick zap in the microwave makes them delightfully gooey again!

How It Supports Making Family Mornings Magical (Without the Fuss)

This Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe with Cream Cheese Glaze isn’t just about food; it’s about creating joyful, memorable moments without adding stress to your busy life.

• Spend Quality Time: Baking together can be a wonderful family activity. This recipe guides you to a rewarding baking experience that brings everyone together, creating cherished memories, not a frustrating chore.
• Deliciously Impressive Results: Achieve bakery-quality taste and appearance effortlessly. Imagine the smiles when your family wakes up to these. It truly makes any morning feel like a special occasion.
• Flexible & Forgiving: With easy-to-follow steps and convenient make-ahead options, you can fit this treat into any schedule. It ensures stress-free deliciousness, whether it’s a planned Sunday brunch or an impromptu Saturday surprise.

Tips, Adjustments, and Cautions for Your Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Here are a few extra pointers to make your cinnamon roll experience even better:

• Technique Upgrades: As I mentioned in the instructions, using unflavored dental floss for cutting your Homemade Cinnamon Rolls provides the cleanest, prettiest slices. Also, don’t over-flour your surface when kneading, or your dough might become tough.
• Seasoning Adjustments: Feel free to boost the cinnamon in the filling for an extra spicy kick. For more complex warmth, add a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg or a dash of ground cardamom to your cinnamon sugar mixture.
• Texture Control: For extra gooey centers, try placing a small dollop of butter or a sprinkle of brown sugar at the bottom of each roll in the baking dish before the second rise. The most important tip for tender, moist rolls is not to overbake them; they should be golden, not dark brown. Overbaking is the quickest way to dry them out!
• Allergy or Dietary Notes: For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk, dairy-free butter sticks, and vegan cream cheese. For gluten-free, you can adapt this recipe with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend (results may vary in texture). Always check yeast labels for GF certification if you’re following a strict gluten-free diet.

FAQs

You’re now ready to bring the warmth and magic of Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze to your family’s table. Enjoy the delicious journey!

Pin this recipe for later and share your baking success with us!

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls With Cream Cheese Glaze

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• Author: Nicole Martinez
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Soft, warm Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with a luscious Cream Cheese Glaze. Perfect for a special breakfast or dessert, with dairy-free & gluten-free options available.

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Ingredients

• Active Dry Yeast: 2 ¼ teaspoons (7g)
• Warm Milk: 1 cup (240ml), around 105-115°F (40-46°C)
• Granulated Sugar: ¼ cup (50g) for dough, plus 1 teaspoon for yeast
• Melted Unsalted Butter: ½ cup (113g) for dough
• Large Eggs: 2
• All-Purpose Flour: 4-4 ½ cups (480-540g)
• Salt: 1 teaspoon

For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling:

• Softened Butter: ¼ cup
• Packed Light Brown Sugar: ½ cup
• Ground Cinnamon: 2 tablespoons

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• Softened Cream Cheese: 4 oz (113g)
• Powdered Sugar: 2 cups (240g)
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
• Milk or Cream: 2-3 tablespoons

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Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast (5 mins): In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar, and the active dry yeast. Give it a gentle stir. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. Mix the Dough (10-15 mins): To the activated yeast mixture, whisk in the remaining ¼ cup sugar, ½ cup melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add 4 cups of all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Add up to ½ cup more flour, a little at a time, if the dough is too wet.
3. Knead & Rise (10 mins knead, 1-1.5 hours rise): Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, usually 1 to 1.5 hours.
4. Prepare the Filling (5 mins): While the dough is rising, mix together the ¼ cup softened butter, ½ cup packed light brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon in a small bowl until well combined.
5. Roll & Shape (15-20 mins): Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle, approximately 18×12 inches. Spread the prepared cinnamon sugar filling evenly over the entire surface, leaving a small border at one of the longer edges. Tightly roll the dough into a log, starting from the longer edge opposite the border. Seal the seam by pinching the dough together.
6. Slice the Rolls (5-10 mins): For perfectly even rolls, use unflavored dental floss or a very sharp knife to cut the log into 12 equal slices, about 1 ½ inches thick. Place the slices cut-side up in a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Second Rise (30-45 mins): Cover the baking dish loosely with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel. Let the rolls rise again in a warm place for another 30-45 minutes, or until they look puffy and have nearly doubled in size.
8. Bake (20-25 mins): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through.
9. Make the Glaze (5 mins): While the rolls are cooling slightly (but still warm!), prepare your glaze. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add 2-3 tablespoons of milk or cream, beating until the Cream Cheese Glaze reaches your desired pourable consistency.
10. Glaze & Serve: Generously spread the smooth, tangy Cream Cheese Glaze over the warm (but not hot!) cinnamon rolls. Serve immediately and watch them disappear!

Notes

Important Note: Nutritional data for this recipe is an estimate as it was not provided in the original article.

Substitutions & Variations: For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk, dairy-free butter sticks, and vegan cream cheese. For gluten-free, adapt this recipe with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend (results may vary in texture); always check yeast labels for GF certification. Feel free to boost the cinnamon in the filling, or add a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg or ground cardamom. You can also add chopped pecans, raisins, fruit purees, chocolate chips, or lemon zest to the filling for delicious twists.

Storage Tips: Store leftover rolls tightly covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. Due to the cream cheese glaze, refrigerate for up to 5 days if keeping longer. To freeze unbaked rolls (after the second rise), cover tightly and freeze for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. To freeze baked, unglazed rolls, wrap individually and freeze for up to 1 month; thaw, reheat, and then glaze.

Reheating: Gently reheat baked rolls in the microwave for 15-30 seconds, or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes, until just warmed through.

General Tips: Using unflavored dental floss for cutting provides the cleanest slices. Don’t over-flour your surface when kneading to prevent tough dough. The most important tip for tender, moist rolls is not to overbake them; they should be golden, not dark brown. Ensure your yeast is active (foamy!) and allow plenty of time for both rises for truly fluffy rolls. If your glaze is too thin, add more powdered sugar; if too thick, add more milk or cream gradually.

• Prep Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 roll
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 50g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Cinnamon Rolls