Softest Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls Homemade Recipe with Cream Cheese Glaze

Introduction

If you’ve ever dreamed of warm, soft, bakery-style cinnamon rolls that melt in your mouth, this homemade recipe will make your kitchen smell heavenly. These rolls are incredibly fluffy, buttery, and filled with a sweet cinnamon swirl. Topped with a creamy, smooth cream cheese glaze, every bite feels like pure comfort.

Even if you’re new to baking, don’t worry — this recipe is simple, beginner-friendly, and walks you through each step so you can create bakery-quality cinnamon rolls right at home. Perfect for weekends, holidays, or any time you want a cozy treat.

History / Background

Cinnamon rolls have a long and delicious history. They are believed to have originated in Northern Europe, especially Sweden, where a similar pastry called kanelbulle is very popular. Over time, this sweet roll traveled around the world and became the soft, fluffy cinnamon-filled version many of us know today.

In the United States, cinnamon rolls grew into a breakfast favorite, often served warm and covered in thick icing. Today, they’re a beloved treat for brunch, special mornings, celebrations, or simply when you’re craving something sweet and comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Extra soft, fluffy, bakery-style texture
• Easy and beginner-friendly step-by-step method
• Irresistible cinnamon-sugar filling
• Cream cheese glaze that melts over warm rolls
• Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert
• Can be made ahead for busy mornings
• Uses simple pantry ingredients

Ingredient Notes

Flour: All-purpose flour works best for soft, tender rolls.

Yeast: Use active dry yeast or instant yeast. Both work well.

Warm milk: Helps activate the yeast and creates a softer dough.

Butter: Adds richness to both the dough and the filling.

Sugar: Used in the dough and the cinnamon filling.

Cinnamon: The star flavor of the swirl. Use fresh, high-quality cinnamon.

Brown sugar: Gives the filling its caramel-like sweetness.

Cream cheese: Needed for the smooth and tangy glaze.

Powdered sugar: Helps create the perfect creamy topping.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or mixer with dough hook
• Rolling pin
• Baking pan (9×13 inches)
• Knife or dough cutter
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Plastic wrap or kitchen towel

Full Recipe Card

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 cup warm milk
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 egg yolk
• ¼ cup melted butter
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• ½ cup softened butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1–2 tbsp milk (for thinning)

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add egg, egg yolk, and melted butter. Mix well.
3. Add flour and salt. Stir until dough begins to form.
4. Knead dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours or until doubled.
6. After rising, roll dough into a large rectangle.
7. Spread softened butter over the dough.
8. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle evenly over the butter.
9. Roll the dough tightly into a log.
10. Slice into 12 even rolls.
11. Place rolls into a greased baking pan.
12. Cover and let rise 30–45 minutes until puffy.
13. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes or until lightly golden.
14. For the glaze: beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
15. Spread glaze over warm rolls and enjoy.

Notes

• If the dough feels sticky, add just a little more flour — not too much.
• Rolls taste best when glazed while still warm.

Tips & Variations

• Add chopped pecans or walnuts inside the filling for crunch.
• Drizzle caramel sauce on top for extra sweetness.
• Use cardamom along with cinnamon for a Scandinavian twist.
• Swap cream cheese glaze for vanilla icing if preferred.
• Add a touch of orange zest for a bright flavor.

Pro Chef Tips

• Warm milk should be slightly warm, not hot — around 110°F (43°C).
• Knead until the dough is smooth; this helps the rolls become fluffy.
• Use room-temperature butter for the filling so it spreads easily.
• Roll the dough evenly to ensure uniform-sized rolls.
• Let rolls cool slightly before glazing so the glaze melts perfectly but doesn’t slide off completely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using hot milk: It can kill the yeast.
• Adding too much flour: Leads to dense, dry rolls.
• Not kneading enough: Rolls won’t rise well.
• Skipping the second rise: Rolls will be heavy instead of fluffy.
• Baking too long: Can dry out the centers.

Storage & Meal Prep

• Store leftover rolls covered at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerated for 3–4 days.
• Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to make them soft again.
• Keep glaze separate if storing overnight, then spread fresh when serving.

Make-Ahead & Freezer Notes

• Prepare rolls the night before, place in the pan, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight.
• Next morning, let them rise at room temperature for 45 minutes before baking.
• To freeze: Freeze unbaked rolls after slicing. Thaw, rise, and bake normally.
• Baked rolls can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Warm and glaze before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with extra glaze dripping down the sides.
• Pair with hot coffee, chai, or a glass of cold milk.
• Add fresh berries or fruit salad for a lovely breakfast spread.
• Enjoy as a brunch centerpiece for special mornings.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes! Instant yeast can be added directly to the flour.

Why did my rolls turn out dense?
Likely not enough rising time or too much flour.

Can I use bread flour?
Yes, but all-purpose flour gives softer rolls.

Can I make these dairy-free?
Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?
Your yeast may be expired or the room may be too cold.

Conclusion

Homemade cinnamon rolls are one of the most comforting treats you can bake, and this recipe makes it delightfully easy. With a soft, fluffy dough, a sweet cinnamon swirl, and a luscious cream cheese glaze, these rolls turn any morning into something special. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, these cinnamon rolls will fill your home with warmth and joy.