Description
These Best Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls feature a soft, tender dough rolled with a cinnamon-sugar filling, optionally studded with raisins or nuts. After a slow rise, they are baked to golden perfection and topped with a rich, creamy cream cheese frosting for a delightful, classic treat perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 3 to 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg plus enough milk to make 1 cup total liquid
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Filling Ingredients
- ¼ cup softened butter
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- ⅓ cup raisins or nuts (optional)
Frosting Ingredients
- 4 ounces softened cream cheese
- 5 tablespoons softened butter
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: Mix and knead all the dough ingredients together by hand or with a stand mixer until you have a soft and smooth dough. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rest in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours until it doubles in size.
- Roll out the dough: Lightly grease a surface and roll the dough into a 10 by 16-inch rectangle. Spread a thin layer of softened butter over the dough, leaving about an inch uncovered on the side farthest from you. Combine the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough. Add raisins or nuts if desired.
- Shape the rolls: Starting from the side nearest you, roll the dough tightly into a long log. Pinch the edges to seal them. Carefully cut the log in half, then cut each half into 6 equal pieces, making 12 rolls total. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, press them slightly, cover, and allow to rise again for 45 to 90 minutes, until puffy.
- Bake the cinnamon rolls: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes or until they turn golden brown on top.
- Make the frosting: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for about one minute until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Frost and serve: Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm cinnamon rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy the soft, fluffy, and aromatic treat.
Notes
- Raisins and nuts are optional; feel free to omit or substitute according to preference.
- Ensure the dough is kneaded well to develop gluten for a fluffy texture.
- Letting the dough rise in a warm environment will speed up the fermentation process.
- For best results, consume cinnamon rolls soon after baking and frosting.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
