The Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing: A Cozy Baking Treat
There’s nothing quite like the smell of warm cinnamon rolls baking in the oven—especially when they’re topped with a rich, creamy cream cheese icing. Last night, I decided to indulge in some late-night baking, and these cinnamon rolls turned out absolutely perfect.
The recipe comes from JoyFoodSunshine (though, let’s be honest, who really knows where most recipes originate?), and I made a few tweaks to make it even easier. Using quick-rise yeast and letting the dough rise on a heating pad on low was a game-changer. If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting treat to bake this holiday season (or anytime!), these cinnamon rolls are a must-try.
Why These Cinnamon Rolls Are Special
These cinnamon rolls are soft, fluffy, and packed with cinnamon-sugar goodness. The cream cheese icing is the perfect finishing touch—sweet, tangy, and utterly irresistible. Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Quick-Rise Yeast: Saves time without sacrificing flavor or texture.
- Heating Pad Trick: Perfect for helping the dough rise in cooler weather.
- Cream Cheese Icing: Takes these rolls to the next level.
Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing
This recipe makes 12 delicious cinnamon rolls that are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a midnight snack. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (105°F)
- ½ cup + 1 tbsp granulated sugar, divided
- 1 tbsp active dry yeast
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 6 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 4 to 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Filling:
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 ½ tbsp ground cinnamon
- 6 tbsp butter, softened
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
- ⅛ tsp salt
Instructions:
- Make the Dough:
- Warm the milk in the microwave for 45–60 seconds until it reaches about 105°F.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm milk, 1 tbsp sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add the remaining ½ cup sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla. Mix with the dough hook until combined.
- Gradually add 4 cups of flour, salt, and cinnamon. Mix on low, then increase to high until a smooth dough forms. Add more flour (1 tbsp at a time) if the dough is too sticky.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 3–5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Form into a ball.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a warm damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Make the Filling:
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth. Set aside.
- Assemble the Rolls:
- Roll the dough into a 24×12-inch rectangle, about ¼-inch thick.
- Spread the filling evenly over the dough. (Alternatively, melt the butter, brush it onto the dough, and sprinkle with a cinnamon-sugar mixture.)
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the rolls in a parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking dish, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 18–20 minutes until golden brown.
- Make the Frosting:
- While the rolls bake, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Spread the frosting over the warm rolls and serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls
- Use a Heating Pad: If your kitchen is cool, place the dough on a heating pad set to low to help it rise.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the rolls to ensure they stay soft and fluffy.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the rolls the night before and let them rise in the fridge overnight. Bake them in the morning for fresh, warm cinnamon rolls.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cinnamon rolls are the ultimate comfort food. They’re perfect for holiday mornings, special occasions, or just because. If you’re a fan of sweet, gooey treats, you’ll also love my Pumpkin Cookies from a 1979 Betty Crocker Cookbook and pumpkin roll with cream cheese filling recipe . Be sure to check them out for more baking inspiration!
Final Thoughts
Baking these cinnamon rolls was such a joy, and I hope you’ll give them a try too. They’re the perfect way to bring a little warmth and sweetness to your day.
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to explore my blog for more cozy baking ideas. From cookies to cakes, there’s something for everyone.
Happy baking!
