Name: The Best Soft Cinnamon Rolls Ever
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 55 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup warm milk; ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ cup brown sugar, packed; 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon; ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling); 3 ounces cream cheese, softened (for glaze); 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze); 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)

Hey y'all! If you're craving a warm, melt-in-your-mouth treat that's perfect for weekend brunches, holiday mornings, or just because, you're in the right place. These are truly The Best Soft Cinnamon Rolls Ever—pillowy, buttery, and bursting with gooey cinnamon flavor. Whether you’re hosting guests or cozying up for a family breakfast, these cinnamon rolls promise to impress. Let’s get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Soft Cinnamon Roll Recipe

Unbelievably fluffy and tender texture every time.
Super easy to follow, even if you’re a beginner baker.
Perfect for making ahead—hello, stress-free mornings!
Crowd-pleasing treat for holidays, brunch, or dessert.
Customizable with your favorite add-ins and toppings.

Ingredients for The Best Soft Cinnamon Rolls Ever

Dough:
- 1 cup warm whole milk (110°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoon active dry yeast (1 standard packet)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon salt
Cinnamon Filling:
- ⅔ cup dark brown sugar, packed
- 3 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt

How to Make The Best Soft Cinnamon Rolls Ever

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, add warm milk and sprinkle yeast on top. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Mix in the sugar, eggs, and melted butter until well combined.
Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough begins to form.
Knead (by hand or using a stand mixer with dough hook) for 7-8 minutes, until dough is smooth and springs back when touched.
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Cinnamon Sugar Filling

Mix brown sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl.
On a lightly floured surface, roll dough into a 16x12-inch rectangle.
Spread softened butter over dough, then sprinkle evenly with cinnamon sugar mixture.

Step 3: Roll & Slice

Tightly roll up the dough from the long side to make a log. Pinch the seams to seal.
Slice into 12 even rolls (about 1.5 inches each).
Arrange rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 4: Second Rise & Bake

Cover and let rolls rise at room temperature for another 30 minutes, until puffy.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake cinnamon rolls for 22-25 minutes, until lightly golden. Don’t overbake for maximum softness!

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth.
Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Mix until thick and fluffy.
Spread frosting over rolls while still warm and devour!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rise Time: 2 hours
Bake Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: ~2 hours 45 minutes

Expert Notes for The Best Soft Cinnamon Rolls Ever

Use fresh yeast for optimal rising power. Expired yeast may cause the rolls to be dense.
For super soft rolls, avoid overbaking. Take them out once the tops are just lightly golden.
You can make the dough the night before and let it rise overnight in the fridge for fresh morning rolls.

Variations on The Best Soft Cinnamon Rolls Ever

Sticky Pecan Cinnamon Rolls: Add ½ cup chopped pecans to the filling and drizzle with caramel sauce after baking.
Vegan Cinnamon Rolls: Swap in plant-based butter, dairy-free milk, and vegan cream cheese.
Apple Cinnamon Rolls: Sprinkle diced sautéed apples over the cinnamon sugar layer before rolling up.

Required Equipment for The Best Soft Cinnamon Rolls Ever

Large mixing bowl
Stand mixer fitted with dough hook (optional, but helpful)
Rolling pin
9x13-inch baking dish
Spatula
Sharp knife or dental floss for slicing rolls
Measuring cups and spoons

Storing The Best Soft Cinnamon Rolls Ever: Tips and Shelf Life

Store any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat before frosting.

Suggested Pairings for The Best Soft Cinnamon Rolls Ever

Enjoy with freshly brewed coffee or a caramel latte.
Serve alongside scrambled eggs or a breakfast casserole for a brunch spread.
Pair with a fresh fruit salad for a lighter balance.

Pro Tips for The Best Soft Cinnamon Rolls Ever

Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for easier mixing.
For even softer rolls, use "bread flour" instead of all-purpose—read more about flours here.
When slicing the dough, use unflavored dental floss for cleaner cuts; learn more dough-shaping tips here.

FAQ for The Best Soft Cinnamon Rolls Ever

Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?: Absolutely! Prepare the rolls, cover tightly, and let them rise in the refrigerator overnight. Bake fresh in the morning.
Why are my cinnamon rolls dense?: It could be due to expired yeast or over-kneading. Make sure your yeast is active, and don't add too much flour.
Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?: Yes, you can freeze them baked or unbaked! Just thaw overnight and finish baking or reheat as needed.

The Best Soft Cinnamon Rolls Ever