Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Glaze Recipe

If you have a soft spot for comforting, melt-in-your-mouth treats, you are going to adore this Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Glaze Recipe. Picture warm, fluffy rolls bursting with a buttery cinnamon swirl, topped with a luscious, sweet glaze that’s just creamy enough to take every bite to heavenly heights. These cinnamon rolls combine simplicity and indulgence seamlessly, making them a perfect weekend baking project or an anytime pick-me-up that feels like a hug in pastry form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the perfectly soft texture, rich flavor, and irresistible aroma of Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Glaze Recipe. The balance of dairy, yeast, and spices guarantees a treat that’s as tender as it is tasty.

• 4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundational ingredient that gives structure and chewiness to the rolls.
• 1 package (about 2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast: Activates the dough’s rise, ensuring soft and fluffy rolls.
• 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F or 45°C): Provides moisture and warmth to help the yeast bloom.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds touch of sweetness that feeds the yeast and flavors the dough.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Brings richness and tenderness to the dough’s crumb.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the dough’s flavors.
• 2 large eggs: Contribute to the dough’s structure and add richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic note that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
• For the filling – 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Ensures the cinnamon sugar mixture spreads smoothly and adds luscious richness.
• 3/4 cup brown sugar: Gives a deep, caramel-like sweetness in the filling.
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: The star spice that delivers the signature warm, fragrant flavor.
• For the glaze – 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Creates a sweet, velvety finish for the rolls.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the glaze with a subtle depth of flavor.
• 3–4 tablespoons milk: Adjusts glaze consistency for the perfect creamy drizzle.

How to Make Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by combining the warm milk, granulated sugar, and instant yeast in a large mixing bowl. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This bubbling action tells you that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic on the dough, promising the soft texture we’re after.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

Add the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture. Mix them together until everything is well combined. These ingredients blend warmth, sweetness, and flavor that make the rolls so comforting and rich.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients Into Dough

Gradually add in the flour and salt, stirring until a dough forms. This step brings the dough together, gradually building gluten which helps create that tender but structured roll.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for around 5 to 7 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. Kneading is key to developing the gluten matrix that gives the rolls their bounce and softness.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Set it somewhere warm to rise for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size. This slow rest turns basic ingredients into something fluffy and airy.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until fully combined. This luscious filling is the heart of the Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Glaze Recipe, delivering the perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

Step 7: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle about 12 by 18 inches. This thin canvas allows the filling to be evenly spread and the rolls to bake evenly.

Step 8: Spread the Filling

Evenly spread the cinnamon-sugar butter mixture across the entire surface of the rolled dough. Every bite should offer that gooey, spiced sweetness that makes cinnamon rolls unforgettable.

Step 9: Roll and Cut

Begin rolling the dough tightly from one long edge into a log. Then, cut the log into 12 equal pieces to give you perfectly portioned rolls that bake uniformly and look beautiful.

Step 10: Second Rise in Pan

Place the cut rolls neatly into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover with a clean cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes, allowing the rolls to become even lighter and more tender.

Step 11: Bake to Golden Perfection

Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes, until golden brown on top. The smell at this point is simply irresistible and the perfect sign that these rolls will be soft on the inside with a slight crust outside.

Step 12: Prepare the Creamy Glaze

While the rolls bake, whisk powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 3 to 4 tablespoons milk in a small bowl until smooth and glossy. This creamy glaze will add a sweet, melting finish that turns these rolls into pure indulgence.

Step 13: Glaze and Serve

Once out of the oven, allow the cinnamon rolls to cool slightly before drizzling the creamy glaze over the top. The glaze soaks into little crevices, enhancing every bite with a perfect sugary touch.

How to Serve Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate these soft cinnamon rolls, consider sprinkling a few chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze. The crunch pairs wonderfully with the soft interior and adds a nice nutty contrast. Alternatively, a light dusting of cinnamon powder or a few fresh orange zest shavings can bring a fresh twist.

Side Dishes

Serve these cinnamon rolls with a steaming cup of coffee or a creamy latte for the ultimate cozy treat. They also pair nicely with fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples to balance the richness with a bit of natural tartness and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful and present your rolls in a rustic wooden board or in a beautiful ceramic dish, letting each roll peek out invitingly. You can also cluster a handful on a tiered dessert stand for brunch or a special gathering, making the Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Glaze Recipe the star of the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover cinnamon rolls tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and store them at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their softness. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is safer, though that may slightly dry the rolls unless reheated properly.

Freezing

These rolls freeze beautifully! Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, either before baking (after the first rise) or after baking and glazing. Frozen cinnamon rolls can last up to 2 months — just thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter before warming.

Reheating

Warm leftover or thawed rolls in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes covered with foil, or microwave individually for 20-30 seconds to regain that freshly baked softness. You can also drizzle a little extra glaze or butter after reheating to revive their irresistible creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast, but you’ll need to proof it first by dissolving in warm milk with sugar until frothy before adding to the dough. Instant yeast skips this step but both work well for these cinnamon rolls.

How do I make the rolls softer and fluffier?

Proper kneading, a warm rise, and not overbaking are key to softness. Also, including eggs and butter in the dough enriches it and creates that tender crumb typical of Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Glaze Recipe.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

You can substitute up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and more fiber, but it may slightly change the texture and rise. Using bread flour instead of all-purpose is also an option for a chewier result.

What’s the best way to store cinnamon rolls with glaze?

Store glazed rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If longer storage is needed, refrigerate and cover to prevent drying out, then reheat gently before serving.

Can the glaze be made dairy-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the milk in the glaze with any plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or coconut milk. It will still have that creamy, sweet finish without compromising flavor.

Final Thoughts

Making these Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Glaze Recipe at home is like wrapping yourself in cozy, sweet comfort. They fill your kitchen with an intoxicating aroma and reward you with tender, flavorful rolls perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Give this recipe a try — I promise it will quickly become a favorite treat that you’ll want to bake again and again.

Print