Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Recipe with Cream Cheese Icing

There’s nothing like waking up on Christmas morning to the smell of freshly baked homemade cinnamon rolls. Soft, fluffy, and warm, these cinnamon rolls with caramel cream cheese icing are the perfect way to kick off the holiday. Each bite melts in your mouth with layers of cinnamon sugar, buttery dough, and caramel cream cheese icing.

This homemade cinnamon roll recipe with caramel cream cheese icing isn't just about taste—it’s about creating lasting memories. You can prepare the dough on Christmas Eve, let it rise overnight, and bake them fresh in the morning. This simple tradition lets you spend more time with family and less time in the kitchen, making Christmas morning even more special.

Watch the video to see how to make it:

The Soy Insight

Soy milk is great for baking because it's rich in vitamins and minerals. It also adds a smooth texture and high-quality protein to your recipe!

Tips for Making the Best Cinnamon Rolls

• Let the Dough Rise Fully

  Patience is key! Wait until the dough doubles in size before rolling it out. This helps create soft, fluffy rolls that are worth the wait.

• Don’t Overwork the Dough

  Over-kneading can lead to tougher rolls. Mix the dough until just combined for a lighter, softer texture.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients

  For smooth dough and even mixing, make sure ingredients like butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature. Cold ingredients may prevent the dough from rising properly.

• Be Generous with the Cinnamon Filling

  The key to delicious cinnamon rolls is in the filling. Load up on the cinnamon-sugar mix so every bite is packed with flavor.

• Brown Butter for Richer Icing

  Browning the butter before adding it to the icing gives it a nutty, caramel-like flavor, elevating your cinnamon rolls to the next level.

• Serve Warm

  Cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the icing melts into every nook and cranny, making each bite gooey and flavorful.

• Use Fresh Yeast

  Make sure your yeast is fresh and bubbly when you mix it with warm milk and sugar. If it doesn’t bubble, try again with fresh yeast to avoid flat rolls.

• Roll the Dough Tightly

  When rolling the dough into a log, keep it tight to create those beautiful, even cinnamon swirls in each roll.

• Don’t Over Bake

  Keep an eye on the oven to avoid over baking. You want the rolls golden brown, but still soft and pillowy on the inside.

• Let the Rolls Cool Slightly Before Icing

  Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before icing, so the cream cheese caramel icing melts just enough into the rolls without becoming too runny.

A New Holiday Tradition

The smell of cinnamon rolls baking in the oven brings warmth and comfort to any holiday morning. Whether you're preparing these cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing for a special breakfast or starting a new family tradition, they’re a guaranteed hit. The fluffy rolls and caramel cream cheese icing create a delicious treat for everyone.

Pair these with our savory Canadian Bacon and Cheese Tarts!

Now that your cinnamon rolls are ready, grab a plate and enjoy them with family and friends—holidays are meant to be shared!

Author: Hungry For Truth

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Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Recipe with Cream Cheese Icing

Prep time: 30 MinCook time: 25 MinInactive time: 1 H & 5 MTotal time: 2 Hour

Ingredients

Dough

• 1 cup warm milk
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 6 tablespoons salted butter (room temperature)
• 3 large eggs
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground vanilla bean powder

Filling

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 6 tablespoons salted butter (room temperature)

Icing

• 4 tablespoons salted butter (room temperature)
• 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
• 1/4-1/3 cup caramel sauce
• 2-3 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Pinch of flaky sea salt

Instructions

1. In a stand mixer with the dough hook, mix warm milk, instant yeast, and brown sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly.
2. Add the butter, eggs, flour, vanilla, and salt. Mix until the dough is smooth. If it's sticky, add more flour until smooth.
3. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rise for 1 hour.
4. Mix the filling by combining brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl.
5. Roll the dough into a large rectangle with a rolling pin. Spread the butter and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly.
6. Roll the dough into a log and slice into 12-15 rolls. Place them in a buttered baking dish and let rise for 15-20 minutes.
7. Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
8. For the icing, brown the butter in a pot for 2-3 minutes. Beat cream cheese in a bowl until fluffy. Add the browned butter, powdered sugar, caramel, and vanilla. Mix until creamy.
9. Spread the icing over the warm rolls with a wooden spoon and serve!

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