Cinnamon Rolls: Soft, Sweet, and Ready in 60 Minutes!

If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to warm, irresistible Cinnamon Rolls: Soft, Sweet, and Ready in 60 Minutes! then you are in for a real treat. This recipe captures the magic of soft, tender dough swirled with buttery cinnamon sugar, crowned with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Best of all, these cinnamon rolls come together quickly, making them perfect for a cozy weekend morning or a delightful last-minute dessert that feels like a special occasion every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering just a handful of straightforward ingredients, this recipe shines because of how each component works in harmony. From the warm milk that activates the yeast to the brown sugar cinnamon filling that creates that signature sweet swirl, every element plays a key role in crafting these delightful rolls.

• 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a soft, pillowy dough that rises beautifully.
• 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast: Ensures your dough rises quickly and reliably for that fluffy texture.
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F): Activates the yeast gently without killing it, crucial for that perfect rise.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the dough.
• 1 egg: Gives richness and structure to the dough for that tender crumb.
• ¼ cup melted butter: Infuses buttery flavor and helps create a tender bite.
• ½ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and boosts the overall flavor.
• ⅔ cup brown sugar: The secret to a deep, caramel-like sweetness in the filling.
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon: The warm, aromatic spice that makes cinnamon rolls irresistible.
• ⅓ cup melted butter (for filling): Keeps the filling luscious and helps it stick to the dough layers.
• 4 oz cream cheese (for frosting): Adds tanginess and a creamy finish.
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting): Sweetens the frosting to a smooth, silky consistency.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting): Enhances the flavor with a subtle warmth that ties it all together.

How to Make Cinnamon Rolls: Soft, Sweet, and Ready in 60 Minutes!

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by warming your milk to about 110 degrees Fahrenheit—not too hot to kill the yeast, but just warm enough to wake it up. Stir in the instant yeast and a pinch of sugar, then let it sit for about 5 minutes, until it becomes foamy. This signals that your yeast is alive and ready to create that dreamy rise.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine your flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Then add the melted butter, egg, and the foamy yeast mixture. Stir everything together until it forms a soft dough. It might be a little sticky—that’s okay! Sticky dough often results in fluffier rolls.

Step 3: Knead and Rest

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Once you’ve got that perfect texture, shape it into a ball and let it rest for 10 minutes. This brief rest is like a mini recharge for your dough, making it easier to roll out.

Step 4: Roll and Fill

Roll the dough into a rectangle about 12 x 9 inches. Spread the melted butter over the surface, then sprinkle evenly with the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture. This is the tasty heart of your Cinnamon Rolls: Soft, Sweet, and Ready in 60 Minutes! so don’t skimp on this step—it’s pure magic.

Step 5: Shape and Slice

Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 9 even rolls. Arrange them snugly in a greased 9-inch baking pan, so they can rise and bake into soft, pillowy swirls.

Step 6: Let Rise and Bake

Now, give your cinnamon rolls some time to puff up by letting them rise in a warm spot for about 20 minutes. Once they’ve doubled in size, bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 18 to 22 minutes until the tops turn golden brown and smell heavenly.

Step 7: Frost and Enjoy

While the rolls bake, whip together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to create a silky frosting. Spread it generously over the warm rolls just out of the oven for that perfect sweet and tangy finish that melts into every bite.

How to Serve Cinnamon Rolls: Soft, Sweet, and Ready in 60 Minutes!

Garnishes

To take your cinnamon rolls to the next level, try sprinkling some chopped toasted pecans or a light dusting of flaky sea salt on top of the frosting. It adds a delightful crunch and a slight contrast that brings out the sweetness.

Side Dishes

Pair these rolls with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a creamy chai latte to complement their warm spices. For a brunch spread, fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples adds balance and vibrant color.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress friends or family, serve your cinnamon rolls on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment paper, alongside small bowls of extra frosting and cinnamon sugar for dipping. Or arrange mini cinnamon rolls in a flower shape inside your pan before baking for a stunning centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cinnamon rolls airtight at room temperature for up to two days. This prevents them from drying out while preserving their soft texture. You can also refrigerate them for an extra day or two.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. This is a perfect way to enjoy Cinnamon Rolls: Soft, Sweet, and Ready in 60 Minutes! anytime you need a quick treat.

Reheating

Thaw frozen rolls overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a couple of hours. Reheat in a warm oven (about 300°F) for 10 minutes, or microwave for 20-30 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked warmth and softness.

FAQs

Can I make cinnamon rolls without instant yeast?

You absolutely can, but you would need to adjust the rising time and use active dry yeast instead. Let it proof in warm water for 10 minutes and expect the dough to take longer to rise. Instant yeast just speeds up the process and is perfect for these quick cinnamon rolls.

What if my dough is too sticky to handle?

If your dough feels very sticky, sprinkle on a little extra flour as you knead, but be careful not to add too much or your rolls could turn out dense. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky but manageable.

Can I substitute regular sugar with brown sugar in the dough?

While the recipe calls for granulated sugar in the dough, you can swap some or all for brown sugar to add a slight molasses flavor and extra moisture, which can make your rolls even richer.

Is it necessary to use cream cheese frosting?

Not at all! Cream cheese frosting is classic, but you can use simple powdered sugar glaze, caramel drizzle, or even a maple glaze depending on your preference. Each brings a delightful twist to your cinnamon rolls.

How do I prevent the rolls from sticking to the pan?

Greasing the baking pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray helps tremendously. You can also line the pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal and cleanup.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the joy of sharing homemade Cinnamon Rolls: Soft, Sweet, and Ready in 60 Minutes! with people you love. This recipe blends simplicity and flavor to give you that warm, comforting experience without spending hours in the kitchen. So, gather your ingredients and let the delicious aroma fill your home—these rolls are truly worth every single bite.

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