There is nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen, and with this Easy One-Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe, you can have that cozy magic in less than the time it takes to watch a movie. This recipe simplifies the process without sacrificing any of the rich, buttery, cinnamon-sugar goodness that makes cinnamon rolls such a beloved treat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious beginner, these rolls come together quickly, delivering soft dough swirled with a perfectly spiced filling and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze that’s utterly irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Easy One-Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe are straightforward but packed with intention, each playing a vital role. From the soft, all-purpose flour that gives structure to the dough, to the warm milk that activates the yeast and keeps the dough tender, every item helps ensure your rolls are fluffy, flavorful, and beautifully golden.
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting): Provides the perfect base for a soft yet sturdy dough that holds all those swirls.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness to balance the cinnamon’s warmth.
- 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast (1 packet): The magic behind those fluffy, airy rolls, working quickly thanks to the warm milk.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors while keeping the dough perfectly balanced.
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C): Activates the yeast and lends moisture to the dough for a tender crumb.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Brings richness and helps the dough stay tender.
- 1 large egg: Binds the dough together and adds a light golden color to the rolls.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Used in the filling to create a luscious cinnamon butter spread.
- 3/4 cup brown sugar: Offers deep molasses sweetness that perfectly complements the cinnamon.
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon: The star spice, providing that classic punch of warm flavor.
- 4 oz (1/2 cup) cream cheese, softened: Key to the creamy, tangy finishing glaze that melts over the rolls.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Mixed with cream cheese for a smooth, rich frosting.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the glaze without any grit.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds sweet aromatic depth to the glaze.
- 1-2 tbsp milk (to thin as needed): Adjusts the glaze to the perfect creamy consistency.
How to Make Easy One-Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Make the Dough
Start by combining your dry ingredients—flour, sugar, yeast, and salt—in a large bowl. Then add the warm milk, melted butter, and egg, mixing everything until a soft dough begins to form. This dough is delicate but forgiving, with the warm milk waking up the yeast to create those fluffy bubbles that make your rolls so soft. Knead the dough either by hand on a floured surface for about 5 minutes or speed up the process with a stand mixer using a dough hook. Once your dough feels smooth and elastic, cover it and let it rest for 10 minutes to relax the gluten and make rolling easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
While the dough rests, whip up the sensational filling by mixing softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth and fragrant. This cinnamon-sugar mixture is what injects each roll with that gooey, caramelized sweetness you crave. Don’t be shy with the cinnamon; it’s what gives the rolls their unmistakable character.
Step 3: Roll and Fill
Once your dough has rested, roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a roughly 15×9-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving about a half-inch border around the edges so the filling stays put when rolling. This part requires a gentle hand and patience — even spreading ensures every bite is swirled with cinnamon delight.
Step 4: Roll and Cut
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice it into 12 evenly sized pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts. Place each roll cut-side up into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, giving them just enough space to puff up without getting too crowded.
Step 5: Rise and Bake
Give your cinnamon rolls a brief rise to fluff up nicely before baking. While they rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 18 to 22 minutes, until they are golden brown and irresistibly inviting. The aroma during baking is part of the joy — your kitchen will smell like a cozy café!
Step 6: Make the Glaze and Serve
While the rolls bake, prepare a luscious cream cheese glaze by beating together softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a splash of milk to thin to your desired consistency. Spread this glaze generously over the warm rolls as soon as they come out of the oven. The glaze melts into every nook and cranny, adding a creamy, tangy finish that takes these cinnamon rolls from delicious to unforgettable.
How to Serve Easy One-Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your cinnamon rolls, try a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze for an irresistible crunch. A light dusting of cinnamon or even a few fresh berries can add a pop of color and freshness, making your rolls as pretty as they are tasty.
Side Dishes
Serve these cinnamon rolls alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or hot tea for the ultimate morning treat. For a more substantial brunch, pair them with fresh fruit salad or scrambled eggs to balance out the sweetness and create a satisfying spread that will impress your family or guests.
Creative Ways to Present
Try placing your cinnamon rolls in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets before baking for adorable personal-sized servings. You could also drizzle additional glaze in swirl patterns on top or pipe cream cheese frosting for an elegant look that’s perfect for entertaining or special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (and who wouldn’t?), store your cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and fresh, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Freezing
Want to enjoy these treats later? Freeze the unbaked rolls in the pan wrapped tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then bake directly from frozen adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. Or freeze fully baked rolls in a sealed bag for up to three months, thawing overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftover cinnamon rolls in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a warm oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes. This refreshes their soft texture and brings the glaze back to gooey perfection.
FAQs
Can I make this Easy One-Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative, use vegan butter, and swap the egg with a flax or chia egg. Also, opt for a dairy-free cream cheese in the glaze to keep it completely vegan-friendly.
What type of cinnamon is best for these rolls?
Ground cinnamon from your spice rack works perfectly, but if you can find Ceylon cinnamon, it has a sweeter, more delicate flavor that can add an extra layer of warmth and complexity to your rolls.
Can I prepare the dough the night before?
While this recipe is designed to be quick, you can mix and let the dough rise overnight in the fridge for a slower fermentation. Just bring it to room temperature before rolling out and continue with the recipe as usual.
How do I know when the rolls are baked through?
The rolls will be golden brown on top and feel springy to the touch. You can also insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, they’re done.
Is it possible to make smaller or larger cinnamon rolls with this recipe?
You can absolutely adjust the size! Just remember that smaller rolls will bake faster, so keep an eye on them. Larger rolls might need a few extra minutes but will be just as delicious.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Easy One-Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe enough if you want to impress with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. It’s the perfect blend of quick preparation and homemade goodness that will fill your kitchen with warmth and smiles. Whether it’s for a weekend brunch, a special occasion, or just because, these cinnamon rolls are sure to become a treasured favorite on your recipe list. So go on, roll up your sleeves and enjoy that magical moment when those sticky, sweet spirals come fresh out of the oven.
Print
Easy One-Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these Easy One-Hour Cinnamon Rolls, a classic sweet treat ready in just an hour. This recipe features a soft, fluffy yeast dough rolled with a buttery cinnamon-sugar filling, baked to golden perfection and topped with a smooth cream cheese glaze. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, these cinnamon rolls offer the warm, indulgent flavors of a bakery-fresh treat made effortlessly at home.
Ingredients
Dough
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
Glaze
- 4 oz (1/2 cup) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp milk (to thin as needed)
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Add the warm milk, melted unsalted butter, and one large egg. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for 5 minutes on medium speed.
- Rest the Dough: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rest for 10 minutes to begin rising.
- Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well mixed and spreadable.
- Roll and Fill: Roll the rested dough out on a floured surface into a 15×9-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border along one edge.
- Roll and Cut: Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal, then cut into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.
- Place in Baking Dish: Arrange the cinnamon roll slices cut side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space for rising.
- Rise and Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Let the rolls rise for about 10-15 minutes if possible, then bake them for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- Make the Glaze: While the rolls bake, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with milk to your desired thickness.
- Glaze and Serve: Once the cinnamon rolls are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Spread the cream cheese glaze generously over the warm rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure the milk is warm (110°F/43°C) to activate the yeast without killing it.
- For softer rolls, do not skip the kneading step; it develops the gluten for fluffy texture.
- Allowing the rolls a second rise before baking can enhance fluffiness but is optional to keep the recipe within one hour.
- Use room-temperature ingredients for better dough consistency.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container; reheat gently before serving.
