🍥 Classic Cinnamon Rolls (from scratch)
🍽️ Makes: 12 rolls | ⏱️ Time: ~2.5 hours (includes rising)
🧾 Dough Ingredients:
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3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
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2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 egg + 1 egg yolk, room temperature
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
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3 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 tsp salt
🧈 Filling:
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1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
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2 tbsp ground cinnamon
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
🍶 Cream Cheese Frosting:
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
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2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
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3/4 cup powdered sugar
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1/2 tsp vanilla extract
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1–2 tbsp milk, as needed for desired consistency
👨🍳 Instructions:
1. Make the Dough
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In a bowl, mix warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
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Add sugar, egg + yolk, and melted butter. Stir to combine.
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Mix in flour and salt until a dough forms.
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Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic (by hand or mixer).
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Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1–1.5 hours or until doubled.
2. Prepare the Filling
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Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
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Have softened butter ready to spread.
3. Assemble the Rolls
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Roll dough into a 14×9-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
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Spread butter over the dough, then sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly.
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Roll tightly from the long side into a log.
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Slice into 12 equal rolls using a sharp knife or floss.
4. Second Rise
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Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Cover and let rise another 30–45 minutes until puffy.
5. Bake
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
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Let cool slightly before frosting.
6. Make the Frosting
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Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
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Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk as needed for spreadable consistency.
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Spread over warm (not hot) rolls.
✅ Tips:
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Want to make them overnight? Assemble, cover, and refrigerate before second rise. Let come to room temp for 30–60 minutes before baking.
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For extra gooey rolls, pour a few tablespoons of heavy cream over the rolls before baking.
Let me know if you’d like a small-batch, eggless, or air fryer version!