Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese

Soft, pillowy rolls swirled with cinnamon-sugar and finished with a creamy glaze—this is the kind of bake that makes your kitchen smell like a hug. Whether for brunch, dessert, or a sweet weekend treat, these cinnamon rolls are pure comfort.

Ingredients

For the Dough
Warm milk (110°F / 45°C)	1 cup
Active dry yeast	2¼ tsp (1 packet)
Granulated sugar	½ cup
Unsalted butter (melted)	⅓ cup
Eggs (room temperature)	2 large
All-purpose flour	4–4½ cups
Salt	1 tsp

For the Filling
Brown sugar (packed)	1 cup
Ground cinnamon	2½ tbsp
Unsalted butter (softened)	⅓ cup

For the Cream Cheese Icing
Cream cheese (softened)	4 oz
Unsalted butter (softened)	¼ cup
Powdered sugar	1½ cups
Vanilla extract	½ tsp
Milk	1–2 tbsp (to adjust consistency)

Instructions

1. Make the dough
   In a large bowl, stir together warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
   Mix in sugar, melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms.
   Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the filling
   Combine brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
   Roll out the dough into a 16×12-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly across the surface, then sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
3. Shape the rolls
   Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log. Slice into 12 equal pieces.
   Arrange rolls in a greased baking pan. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
4. Bake
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   Bake rolls for 22–25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Make the icing
   Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy.
   Add milk gradually until the icing is spreadable.
6. Finish & serve
   Spread icing over warm rolls so it melts into the swirls. Serve warm and enjoy every gooey bite.

Tips & Variations

• Make ahead: Prepare the rolls the night before and refrigerate. Let rise at room temp before baking.
• Add-ins: Sprinkle chopped pecans or raisins into the filling for extra texture.
• Flavor twist: Add a pinch of cardamom or orange zest to the icing for a festive touch.