Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy weekend morning or a special treat for your family, these half-batch cinnamon rolls provide all the comfort and flavor of a classic recipe. Plus, they don't make too many to handle! The rolls are soft and fluffy. They are filled with a sweet, spiced cinnamon-sugar mixture. A luscious cream cheese frosting tops them, taking the rolls to the next level. Optional raisins and walnuts add a delightful twist, giving you the flexibility to customize your perfect bite. Let’s dive into this approachable and utterly satisfying recipe!

Ingredients Breakdown

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in creating the perfect cinnamon rolls. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:

For the Dough:

• • All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): The foundation of the dough, providing structure and fluffiness.

• • Granulated Sugar (2 tablespoons): Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough and helps the yeast activate.

• • Instant Yeast (1 teaspoon): Makes the dough rise, giving it a soft and airy texture. Instant yeast doesn’t require proofing, saving time.

• • Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.

• • Warm Milk (3/4 cup): Activates the yeast and adds richness to the dough. Ensure it’s warm (not hot) to avoid killing the yeast.

• • Egg (1 large): Adds moisture, richness, and structure, contributing to the softness of the rolls.

• • Unsalted Butter (3 tablespoons, melted): Adds flavor and keeps the dough tender.

For the Filling:

• • Unsalted Butter (1/4 cup, softened): Helps the cinnamon-sugar mixture stick to the dough while adding richness.

• • Brown Sugar (1/2 cup): The key ingredient for a caramel-like sweetness in the filling.

• • Cinnamon (1 tablespoon): The star spice that gives the rolls their signature warmth and flavor.

• • Optional Raisins (1/4 cup): Add a chewy texture and a pop of sweetness.

• • Optional Walnuts (1/4 cup, chopped): Contribute crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs well with the cinnamon.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• • Cream Cheese (2 ounces, softened): Provides a tangy, creamy base for the frosting.

• • Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons, softened): Adds a smooth texture and richness.

• • Powdered Sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens the frosting while keeping it light and fluffy.

• • Vanilla Extract (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the flavor of the frosting with a touch of warmth.

• • Milk (1–2 teaspoons): Adjusts the frosting’s consistency for easy spreading or drizzling.

Feel free to customize these ingredients to suit your preferences—experimenting with add-ins like dried cranberries, pecans, or even a touch of orange zest can make this recipe uniquely yours!

Tips for Success

Making perfect cinnamon rolls at home is easier than you think with a few helpful tips. These suggestions will ensure your rolls come out soft, fluffy, and full of flavor every time:

1. Activate the Yeast Properly

• • Make sure the milk is warm, around 110°F (45°C), to activate the yeast. Too hot, and you’ll kill it; too cold, and it won’t activate. If your dough doesn’t rise, this might be the culprit.

2. Don’t Over-Flour the Dough

• • The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. Adding too much flour will result in dense rolls. Lightly dust your surface for kneading instead of incorporating extra flour.

3. Roll Evenly

• • When rolling out the dough, aim for an even thickness across the rectangle to ensure the rolls bake uniformly. A size of about 12x8 inches is perfect for this recipe.

4. Use Room-Temperature Butter for the Filling

• • Softened butter spreads easily and helps the cinnamon-sugar mixture adhere to the dough. Avoid using melted butter, as it can make the filling runny.

5. Cut Cleanly

• • Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to slice the rolls cleanly. Flattening the rolls during cutting can lead to uneven baking.

6. Proof Until Puffy

• • For the second rise, let the rolls puff up and fill the pan before baking. This step ensures light, airy rolls. Depending on the temperature in your kitchen, this can take 30–45 minutes.

7. Bake to Perfection

• • Keep an eye on the rolls in the oven. They’re ready when the tops are lightly golden, and the center rolls spring back when gently pressed. Overbaking can make them dry.

8. Spread the Frosting While Warm

• • For gooey, melty frosting, spread it over the cinnamon rolls while they’re still warm from the oven. This allows it to seep into the swirls for extra decadence.

With these tips in mind, you’re set up for cinnamon roll success! Enjoy the process and the delicious reward that follows.