Name: The Softest Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 350 g bread flour (2 3/4 cups); 50 g sugar (1/4 cup); 7 g instant yeast (2 1/4 tsp); 4 g salt (1/4 tsp); 1 large egg; 160 g milk (2/3 cup), lukewarm (100-110°F / 38-43°C); 50 g butter (1/4 cup), room temperature; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup butter, softened; 1 tbsp cinnamon; 1/2 cup pecans, chopped (optional); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 6 tbsp butter; 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/8 tsp salt

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 11 reviews

If you have ever dreamed of sinking your teeth into warm, fluffy clouds of cinnamon-scented bliss, then this is the moment you’ve been waiting for. The Softest Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is exactly that heavenly comfort food that melts in your mouth and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Each bite is tender, buttery, and swirled with just the right amount of cinnamon and sugar, perfectly finished with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re treating yourself for breakfast or impressing friends at brunch, these cinnamon rolls deliver irresistible softness and flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of eight raw cinnamon rolls arranged evenly in a round black pan. The rolls are creamy beige in color with visible swirls of dark brown cinnamon filling inside each roll, creating a spiral pattern. A woman's hand is pouring white icing from a small transparent glass container directly over the rolls, with a few drops already falling onto the rolls. The surface underneath the pan is a white marbled texture. The image is bright and clear, showing the soft texture of the dough and smooth flow of the icing. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the perfect cinnamon roll starts with beautifully simple ingredients that work together to create that soft, tender dough and rich filling. Every item below plays a key role in building the taste, texture, and color that define The Softest Cinnamon Rolls Recipe.

Bread flour (350 g or 2 3/4 cups): Gives the dough its perfect chewy yet soft texture by encouraging gluten development.
Sugar (50 g or 1/4 cup): Adds just enough sweetness to the dough to balance the cinnamon filling.
Instant yeast (7 g or 2 1/4 tsp): Powers the dough’s rise for those fluffy, airy rolls.
Salt (4 g or 1/4 tsp): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness beautifully.
Large egg (1): Adds richness and helps bind the dough while contributing to its tender crumb.
Milk, lukewarm (160 g or 2/3 cup): Activates the yeast and keeps the dough moist and soft.
Butter, room temperature (50 g or 1/4 cup): Adds buttery richness and keeps the dough tender.
Brown sugar (1/2 cup): The filling’s sweet base with hints of molasses for depth of flavor.
Butter, softened (1/4 cup): Helps the cinnamon sugar stick and creates that gooey swirl inside.
Cinnamon (1 tbsp): The star spice of the filling bringing warmth and that classic aroma.
Chopped pecans (1/2 cup, optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor if you want a little extra texture.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Poured over the rolls before baking for tender moisture and richness.
Butter (6 tbsp): Used in the frosting for a creamy, decadent finish.
Powdered sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetens the frosting, making it smooth and glossy.
Cream cheese, softened (1/4 cup): Adds tang and creaminess to the frosting that balances the sweetness.
Vanilla (1/2 tsp): Lifts the frosting with a fragrant hint of warmth.
Salt (1/8 tsp): Just a pinch to bring all frosting flavors together perfectly.

How to Make The Softest Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Dough

Begin by combining your dry ingredients including bread flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast in a stand mixer bowl. Add in the wet ingredients: the large egg, lukewarm milk, and softened butter. Using the dough hook attachment on low speed, knead until the dough just comes together and no dry flour remains. Cover the bowl with a tea towel and let it rest on the stand mixer for 30 minutes. This resting period is essential for hydrating the flour and starting gluten development, setting the foundation for soft, fluffy rolls.

Step 2: Knead and Rise

After the initial rest, switch the mixer to high speed and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until your dough feels shiny and elastic. This thorough kneading develops the gluten network to give the dough strength without sacrificing softness. Cover the bowl again and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This rise makes the rolls airy and ridiculously soft.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, mix together the brown sugar, softened butter, cinnamon, and optional chopped pecans in a bowl until smooth and easy to spread. This filling is the heart of The Softest Cinnamon Rolls Recipe, delivering that indulgent cinnamon sweetness inside every roll.

Step 4: Roll, Fill, and Slice

On a floured surface, roll your dough into a 10 by 16-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly, almost to the edges, then carefully roll it up from the longer side to form a tight log. Slice this log into 8 equal rolls. This rolling step creates those iconic spiral swirls packed with cinnamon sugar magic that will melt in your mouth.

Step 5: Arrange and Rise Again

Place the sliced rolls in a greased 9×9-inch pan or round 9-inch cake pan lined with parchment paper to catch any leaking filling. Warm up the heavy cream in the microwave for about 30 seconds, then pour it gently over the rolls. This adds extra richness and keeps the rolls moist during baking. Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a tea towel and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes until doubled in size. This final rise is what makes the rolls impossibly soft.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the cinnamon rolls for 12 to 15 minutes until they turn a light golden brown. The smell is absolutely intoxicating and signals that these sweet treats are ready to come out. Let them cool for about 30 minutes before glazing to avoid melting your frosting into a thin glaze.

Step 7: Frosting Time

Mix together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. Spread or drizzle this thick frosting over your rolls generously. If you prefer a thinner glaze, add a splash more cream to lighten it up. Serving your rolls warm ramps up the gooey, tender experience that makes The Softest Cinnamon Rolls Recipe so addictively delightful.

How to Serve The Softest Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

A single cinnamon roll sits in the center of a white plate with decorative raised patterns, placed on a white marbled surface. The cinnamon roll has three visible layers: the bottom layer is a thick, soft dough with a light brown baked edge; the middle layer shows the spiral swirl of cinnamon filling, dark brown in color; the top layer is a smooth, creamy off-white icing generously spread, slightly dripping over the sides. The icing covers most of the roll's surface but reveals the spiral below. The lighting highlights the soft texture of the dough and the shine of the icing. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sometimes the simplest touch can take your cinnamon rolls to the next level. Try sprinkling extra chopped pecans, a light dust of cinnamon powder, or even a few flakes of sea salt on top of the frosting for texture contrast and added flavor depth. Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a handful of blueberries on the side pairs beautifully as a colorful, fresh garnish.

Side Dishes

These soft cinnamon rolls shine perfectly as a centerpiece for any breakfast or brunch. They complement savory sides like crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, or a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. For an indulgent treat, serve alongside a rich cup of coffee, chai tea, or a glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the classic pan! For a beautiful presentation, arrange the rolls in a circular pattern on a large serving plate or bake them in individual muffin tins for perfectly portioned pieces. Drizzle extra frosting artistically in zigzags or dollop with whipped cream for a fun touch. You can even try layering them in a trifle dish with layers of pastry cream or fruit for a stunning dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cinnamon rolls should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and soft for up to two days, making them easy to enjoy without reheating. If you prefer them warm, a quick zap in the microwave revives the softness and frosting’s melt-in-your-mouth magic.

Freezing

The Softest Cinnamon Rolls Recipe freezes exceptionally well. Wrap either the whole pan tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or freeze the individual rolls separated by parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your cinnamon rolls in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or place them in a preheated 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes, covered loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Reheat just before serving and add a touch more frosting or cream cheese drizzle for that fresh-baked feeling.

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

While you can substitute all-purpose flour, bread flour is preferred for this recipe because it has a higher protein content, which develops more gluten for a chewier yet soft and elastic dough. Using all-purpose flour might result in slightly less fluffy rolls, but they will still be delicious!

Do I need to let the dough rise twice?

Yes, the two rises are crucial. The first rise allows the yeast to ferment and create air bubbles for fluffiness, while the second rise after shaping ensures the rolls become tender and light. Skipping either rise would impact the softness and texture that make The Softest Cinnamon Rolls Recipe so special.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

You can absolutely make these rolls by hand! Knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes shiny and elastic, which can take about 10-15 minutes. The process is a bit more labor-intensive but equally rewarding.

Can I make these cinnamon rolls vegan?

This recipe relies on dairy and eggs for richness and tenderness, but you can try vegan substitutes like dairy-free milk, vegan butter, and egg replacers. Keep in mind texture and flavor may vary slightly, but it’s definitely doable!

Is it better to use dark or light brown sugar?

Either works, but dark brown sugar will give your filling a richer, deeper molasses flavor, enhancing the warm cinnamon taste. Light brown sugar produces a milder sweetness that still tastes wonderful.

Final Thoughts

It’s no exaggeration to say this The Softest Cinnamon Rolls Recipe can redefine your love of cinnamon rolls forever. That pillowy tender dough, sweet and spiced filling, paired with a luscious cream cheese frosting—this recipe captures the essence of cozy mornings and special gatherings. I encourage you to dive in, roll up your sleeves, and bake your way to cinnamon roll heaven. Once you try these, I guarantee you’ll be making them again and again, sharing smiles and hugs with every bite.