Soft, tender cinnamon rolls with a gooey brown-sugar center and a glossy vanilla glaze, perfect for a cozy brunch or holiday treat.
Prep Time 1 hourhour30 minutesminutes
Cook Time 25 minutesminutes
Total Time 2 hourshours5 minutesminutes
Serving Size 12rolls
Ingredients
For the dough
4cupsall-purpose flour
1/2cupgranulated sugar (divided)1/2 cup used for yeast bloom
1packetactive dry yeast2 1/4 tsp
1/2cupmilk, warmed to about 110–115°F(43–46°C)
1/4cupunsalted butter, melted
2largeeggs
1teaspoonsalt
For the filling
1/2cupbrown sugar(light or dark both work)
2tablespoonsground cinnamon
1/4cupunsalted butter, softened(for spreading)
For the glaze
1cuppowdered sugar
2tablespoonsmilk(adjust for consistency)
1teaspoonvanilla extract
Instructions
Dough Preparation
In a large bowl, combine warm milk (110–115°F), 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and the yeast. Stir once and let sit 5 minutes until foamy.
Whisk the melted butter, eggs, and salt into the foamy yeast mixture until uniform.
Gradually add the 4 cups of flour. Mix until a shaggy dough forms and no large dry pockets remain.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead 5–10 minutes until the dough is smooth, slightly tacky, and elastic.
Lightly grease a bowl and place the dough inside. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 1 hour.
Filling & Shaping
Punch down the dough gently to release gas. On a floured surface, roll it into a 12 x 16-inch rectangle.
Spread the 1/4 cup softened butter over the rectangle. Mix the 1/2 cup brown sugar with 2 tablespoons cinnamon and sprinkle evenly.
Roll the dough tightly into a log starting from the long edge. Pinch the seam to seal. Cut into 12 equal rolls.
Arrange the rolls in a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 25–30 minutes until puffy.
Baking & Glazing
Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown on top.
While the rolls are warm, whisk 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over warm rolls and serve.
Notes
Serve warm with coffee or hot chocolate. For holiday gatherings, serve alongside savory dishes or as mini portions for a balancing sweetness. Can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.