Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
There is nothing more comforting on a holiday morning than a warm tray of easy cinnamon rolls fresh out of the oven. Soft, fluffy, and filled with buttery cinnamon sugar, these rolls are the kind of recipe that makes your kitchen smell like Christmas the moment they bake. Whether you’re making them for a cozy December breakfast or preparing something special for Christmas morning, this recipe keeps things simple while giving you bakery-style cinnamon rolls at home.
Many cinnamon roll recipes feel intimidating, especially if you’re not used to working with yeast, but this version is incredibly beginner-friendly. The dough comes together with basic pantry ingredients, and the rise happens quickly in a warm space. The filling is classic and comforting: a rich layer of softened butter covered in brown sugar and cinnamon, which melts into the dough as it bakes. Once the rolls are out of the oven, a smooth cream-cheese glaze adds the perfect finishing touch.
What makes these cinnamon rolls perfect for Elevate Kitchen readers is how approachable the process is. You don’t need a stand mixer to make them—just a bowl, a whisk, and your hands. They fit right alongside our easy breakfast ideas like Banana Bread and French Toast, with that same focus on simple, satisfying recipes anyone can make. If you’re hosting brunch or planning your Christmas menu, these rolls pair beautifully with dishes like Greek Yogurt Parfait or Overnight Oats for a balanced, festive table.
Another reason these easy cinnamon rolls are such a great recipe to have in your holiday rotation is how versatile they are. You can make them the night before and bake them fresh in the morning, drizzle them with different icings, or add nuts, orange zest, or chocolate chips for something extra special. They also reheat well, making them a great option for leftovers during the holiday week.
Whether you’re preparing breakfast for your family, creating a cozy holiday brunch, or simply craving something warm and sweet, these cinnamon rolls are a guaranteed hit. They bring together all the best flavors of the season while staying true to your style: uncomplicated, homemade, and always delicious.
Easy Cinnamon Rolls Anyone Can Make
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, granulated sugar, melted butter, salt, and egg. Stir until yeast dissolves.
- Gradually add flour, stirring until dough begins to form. If dough sticks too much, add a little more flour until it’s soft but not dry.
- Knead dough about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (~1 hour).
- On a floured surface, roll dough into a rectangle (about 12 × 18 in). Spread softened butter evenly over dough.
- Mix brown sugar + cinnamon then sprinkle evenly over buttered dough. Roll tightly from the long side into a log. Pinch seam to seal.
- Cut log into 12 rolls (about 1–1.5 in slices) and place them cut-side up in a greased 9×13 pan. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly.
- For glaze: beat cream cheese and butter until smooth, gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk. Drizzle over warm rolls. Serve warm.
Notes
- Dough should feel soft, slightly sticky, and easy to knead—adding too much flour will make rolls dense.
- For gooier rolls, under-bake by 2 minutes.
- Make-ahead option: assemble rolls, refrigerate overnight, and bake in the morning.
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A stand mixer can make dough prep easier. Here’s a great option:
Cusinart Mixer
⭐ Variations
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling.
- Mix in 1 tbsp orange zest for a citrusy holiday twist.
- Use half white sugar / half brown sugar for lighter sweetness.
- Add mini chocolate chips inside the filling.
⭐ Storage
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in microwave for 10–15 seconds.
- Freeze baked rolls (without glaze) for up to 2 months.
