Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze

Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze are one of the most comforting and irresistible baked treats ever created. Imagine soft, fluffy rolls swirled with buttery cinnamon-sugar filling, baked to golden perfection, and smothered in a luscious cream cheese glaze that melts into every layer.

The combination of warm spice, buttery dough, and creamy sweetness makes every bite a little piece of heaven. These cinnamon rolls fill your home with the most amazing aroma — the kind that instantly makes everyone gather in the kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers the perfect cinnamon roll texture — pillowy soft on the inside with just the right amount of gooey swirl and creamy topping.

The dough is rich yet light, the filling has a deep cinnamon flavor, and the glaze ties it all together with a silky sweetness.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Bakery-quality at home: Soft, fluffy, and perfectly glazed.
• Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves cinnamon rolls — they vanish instantly!
• Make-ahead friendly: Can be prepped the night before and baked fresh in the morning.
• Warm comfort food: Perfect for holidays, breakfasts, or cozy weekends.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Resting/Proofing Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes

Servings

• Makes 12 large cinnamon rolls

Calories

• Approximately 350–380 kcal per roll (with glaze)

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Breakfast / Brunch / Dessert

Ingredients

For the Dough

• ¾ cup (180 ml) warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
• 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk (room temperature)
• ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon Filling

• ½ cup (110 g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150 g) brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

• 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (90 g) powdered sugar, sifted
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1–2 tablespoons milk (to thin if needed)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Activate the yeast and prepare the dough.
2. Let it rise until doubled in size.
3. Roll out dough, spread cinnamon filling, and roll into a log.
4. Slice into rolls, proof again, and bake until golden.
5. Prepare the cream cheese glaze and spread it over warm rolls.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C). Pour into a large mixing bowl and sprinkle yeast over it. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add sugar, egg, egg yolk, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Whisk to combine.
3. Add flour and salt, mixing with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead for 8–10 minutes (by hand or mixer) until smooth and elastic.
5. Place in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
2. Set aside until the dough is ready.

Step 3: Shape the Rolls

1. Once the dough has doubled, punch it down and transfer to a floured surface.
2. Roll into a large rectangle (about 14×18 inches).
3. Spread the cinnamon butter filling evenly across the surface.
4. Starting from the long edge, roll tightly into a log.
5. Cut into 12 equal slices using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.

Step 4: Second Rise

1. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a damp towel.
3. Let rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled.

Step 5: Bake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake for 22–25 minutes, until the rolls are golden brown and the centers are set.
3. Allow them to cool for about 10 minutes before glazing.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

1. Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until creamy.
3. Add milk a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Glaze and Serve

1. Spread the glaze generously over warm rolls.
2. Allow the glaze to melt slightly into the swirls for a gooey, irresistible finish.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy warm!

How to Serve

Serve warm and freshly glazed, ideally within 30 minutes of baking for the best texture.
Pair with:

• Hot coffee or latte
• Fresh fruit or orange juice
• A sprinkle of extra cinnamon for aroma

Perfect for:

• Sunday brunches
• Holiday breakfasts
• Sweet afternoon treats

Additional Recipe Tips

• Don’t overheat the milk: Too hot can kill the yeast; keep it around 110°F.
• Knead properly: Smooth and elastic dough means soft rolls.
• Second rise is key: Don’t skip it — that’s what makes them pillowy.
• Spread filling evenly: For perfect swirls in every roll.
• Use dental floss to cut: It gives clean, beautiful edges.
• Add glaze while warm: It seeps into the rolls for maximum flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Maple Cinnamon Rolls: Add 1 tablespoon maple syrup to the glaze.
• Pecan Cinnamon Rolls: Sprinkle chopped pecans in the filling.
• Apple Cinnamon Rolls: Add finely chopped apples before rolling.
• Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls: Mix 2 tablespoons cocoa powder into the filling.
• Pumpkin Spice Rolls: Replace some cinnamon with pumpkin spice blend and add pumpkin puree to the dough.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration:

• Store leftover rolls (covered) in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the microwave for 20–30 seconds before serving.

Freezing:

• Unbaked rolls: After slicing, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.
• Baked rolls: Freeze cooled rolls (without glaze) for up to 2 months. Thaw and warm before glazing.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Stand mixer (optional)
• Bench scraper or dental floss for cutting
• Pastry brush (for greasing)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make these overnight?
Yes! After shaping, cover the rolls and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for 45 minutes before baking.

Q2: My rolls didn’t rise — what happened?
The yeast may have been expired or the milk too hot/cold. Always ensure yeast is fresh and the liquid is warm, not hot.

Q3: Can I make them without eggs?
Yes, replace each egg with ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce or 3 tablespoons yogurt.

Q4: How do I make the rolls extra gooey?
Pour a few tablespoons of heavy cream over the rolls just before baking for a super moist center.

Q5: Can I make a smaller batch?
Absolutely! Halve the recipe for 6 rolls — same great results.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Glaze are more than just a pastry — they’re pure comfort baked into every swirl. Soft, warm, and fragrant with cinnamon, they’re the kind of treat that brings people together around the table.

Whether for a festive brunch, a lazy weekend, or a special surprise, these rolls are a reminder that homemade goodness always tastes best. One bite and you’ll understand why this classic has stood the test of time — fluffy, gooey, and simply unforgettable.