How to Bake Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Icing

The smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls might be one of life’s purest joys. Warm, fluffy dough swirled with buttery cinnamon sugar and topped with rich, creamy icing — it’s the kind of treat that makes mornings feel magical. Whether you’re baking for a weekend brunch or a cozy holiday breakfast, these homemade cinnamon rolls are worth every minute.

Why Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Are So Special

Nothing compares to homemade cinnamon rolls. They’re soft, gooey, and full of that comforting cinnamon aroma that fills the whole house. Unlike store-bought versions, you can make them exactly how you like — extra cinnamon, more icing, or even a hint of vanilla in the dough.

Plus, the process is surprisingly relaxing. A little mixing, rolling, and waiting for the dough to rise — and before you know it, your kitchen smells like a bakery.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need for the dough, filling, and icing:

For the Dough

1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
¼ cup granulated sugar
⅓ cup melted butter
1 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

For the Filling

¾ cup brown sugar (packed)
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
¼ cup softened butter

For the Creamy Icing

4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
¼ cup butter (softened)
1 ½ cups powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1–2 tablespoons milk (to adjust consistency)

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step ensures your dough will rise properly and turn out light and fluffy.

Pro Tip: If the mixture doesn’t foam, your yeast may be expired or the milk too hot. Try again with fresh yeast.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, salt, and eggs.
Pour in the yeast mixture and mix until combined.
Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Fill and Roll

Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle (about 16×12 inches).

Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface.
Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture all over.
Gently roll the dough from the long edge into a tight log.
Slice into 12 even rolls using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss for clean cuts.

Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy.

Step 4: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on top and slightly firm to the touch. Don’t overbake — you want them soft and gooey inside.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Icing

While the rolls bake, beat together:

Cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
Mix in milk, a tablespoon at a time, until you get a silky, pourable icing.

Spread the icing over the warm rolls right out of the oven — the heat helps it melt into every swirl.

Serving & Storage Tips

Serve warm with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or chai.
Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar or crushed nuts on top for texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature or 5 days in the fridge.
To reheat, microwave for 15–20 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes.

Bonus Tip: Make Ahead for Busy Mornings

You can prepare the rolls the night before!

Follow the steps up to slicing and placing in the pan.
Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight.
In the morning, let them rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

Perfect for holiday breakfasts or special weekends when you want a freshly baked treat without the early wake-up.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the joy of pulling a tray of warm, fragrant cinnamon rolls from the oven. They’re soft, buttery, and smothered in luscious icing — the ultimate comfort treat for family and friends.

So grab your mixing bowl, roll up your sleeves, and bring a little sweetness to your kitchen today. Your home will smell amazing, and your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

✨ Save this recipe for later and share it with someone who loves baking! 🧡

Emily Rae Harper