Name: Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Vanilla Glaze
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast; 1 cup warm milk; ⅓ cup granulated sugar; ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup brown sugar, packed; 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon; ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling); 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Facebook

Hey y'all! If you're searching for the ultimate comfort food, these Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Vanilla Glaze are about to become your new obsession. They're pillowy-soft, loaded with gooey cinnamon-sugar swirls, and smothered in a rich, luscious vanilla glaze. Whether it's a cozy weekend brunch, holiday gathering, or simply a sweet treat to brighten any morning, these cinnamon rolls are the answer. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Vanilla Glaze Recipe

They bake up ultra-soft and fluffy every single time.
The creamy vanilla glaze melts into every swirl for irresistible flavor.

No special equipment required—just simple pantry ingredients.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a crowd-pleasing dessert.
Easy to customize with fun filling and topping variations.

Ingredients for Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Vanilla Glaze

3 ¼ cups (390g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar

¾ cup (180ml) whole milk, warmed to 110°F (43°C)
¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg, at room temperature

½ teaspoon salt
½ cup (100g) light brown sugar, packed
1 ½ tablespoon ground cinnamon

¼ cup (56g) unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
For the Creamy Vanilla Glaze:
1 ½ cups (180g) powdered sugar

2 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
2–3 tablespoon whole milk
1 ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

How to Make Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Vanilla Glaze: Step-by-Step Directions

1. Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, melted butter, granulated sugar, and instant yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes, until foamy.
Beat in the egg and salt. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms.

Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. (Alternatively, use a stand mixer with dough hook.)
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 60–90 minutes.

2. Make the Filling

Mix together brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.

On a lightly floured surface, roll dough into a 16x10-inch rectangle.
Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

3. Shape & Slice the Rolls

Tightly roll up the dough, starting from the long edge, into a log.

Slice into 12 equal rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.
Arrange rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes, until puffy.

4. Bake the Cinnamon Rolls

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Bake rolls for 22–25 minutes, or until golden brown and centers are cooked through.

5. Make the Creamy Vanilla Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, salt, and enough milk to reach a thick-but-pourable consistency.
Drizzle or spread glaze generously over warm cinnamon rolls.

Notes for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Vanilla Glaze

Let your dough rise in a slightly warm oven (turned off) for a quicker rise.
For ooey-gooey centers, slightly under-bake the rolls by 1–2 minutes.
For more tips on yeast dough, check out King Arthur Baking's guide to yeast.

Variations on Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Vanilla Glaze

Pecan Caramel Rolls: Sprinkle chopped pecans and drizzle caramel sauce over the filling before rolling.
Chocolate Swirl: Add a layer of mini chocolate chips with the cinnamon-sugar for a rich twist.
Maple Glaze: Substitute maple extract and a splash of maple syrup in the glaze for a warm, autumnal flavor.

Required Equipment for Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Vanilla Glaze

Large mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Rolling pin

9x13-inch baking dish
Sharp knife or unflavored dental floss
Whisk

Spatula

Storage Instructions for Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Vanilla Glaze

Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, microwave individual rolls for 15–20 seconds or warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes. For longer storage, freeze unglazed rolls for up to 2 months—glaze after reheating.

Serving Recommendations for Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Vanilla Glaze

Pair with a hot cup of coffee or homemade hot chocolate for a cozy treat.

Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad for a balanced brunch.
Enjoy warm from the oven with an extra drizzle of glaze!

Pro Tips for the Best Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Vanilla Glaze

Make sure your yeast is fresh—check the expiration date before you start.

For ultra-soft rolls, use bread flour instead of all-purpose if available (learn about flour differences here).
Don’t wrap rolls too tightly in the pan to allow for maximum rise and fluffiness.

FAQ: Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Vanilla Glaze

Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?: Absolutely! Prepare the rolls up to the second rise, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?: Yes—dissolve it in the warm milk and sugar first, let it sit until foamy, then continue with the recipe.
Why are my cinnamon rolls dense or tough?: This usually means too much flour, over-kneading, or not enough rising time. Always use a light touch and allow the dough to double in size.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Bake Time: 22–25 minutes
Total Time: About 2.5 hours

essb_item essb_link_linkedin nolightbox essb_link_svg_icon"> LinkedIn

Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Vanilla Glaze