If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying treat, these Easy One-Hour Cinnamon Rolls are perfect. They’re soft, gooey, and packed with cinnamon-sugar goodness, all while being surprisingly easy to make in just about an hour.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s quick: Ready in just one hour, perfect for last-minute cravings.
Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples you likely already have.
Irresistibly delicious: Soft dough with a gooey cinnamon-sugar filling and a rich cream cheese glaze.
Beginner-friendly: No fancy equipment needed, and the steps are straightforward.
Perfect for any occasion: Great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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 (about 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)
Directions
Make the Dough:
Mix the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl.
Stir in the warm milk, melted butter, and egg until the dough is combined.
Knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Prepare the Filling:
Mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl to create a paste.
Roll and Fill:
Roll the dough into a 16×12-inch rectangle.
Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
Roll and Cut:
Roll the dough tightly into a log starting from the longer side.
Slice the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Rise and Bake:
Cover the rolls with a damp towel and let them rise in a warm spot for 20 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown.
Make the Glaze:
Beat the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add milk as needed to thin the glaze.
Glaze and Serve:
Spread the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls. Serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
Servings: Makes 12 rolls.
Prep Time: 30 minutes.
Cook Time: 22 minutes.
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour.
Variations
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling before rolling.
Extra Gooey: Pour a drizzle of heavy cream over the rolls before baking for an ultra-moist texture.
Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the filling for added warmth.
Vegan Option: Substitute plant-based milk, butter, and cream cheese.
Mini Rolls: Roll smaller logs and cut into bite-sized pieces for a party-friendly version.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
Related Recipes:
- Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls
- Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls
- Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze
FAQs
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the rolls up to the baking step. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise slightly before baking.
What’s the best way to ensure soft dough?
Use warm milk and don’t over-knead the dough. Letting it rest for a few minutes also helps.
Can I freeze these rolls?
Yes, freeze baked and cooled rolls without the glaze. Thaw, reheat, and glaze when ready to serve.
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, but activate it first in warm milk with a bit of sugar, and allow additional rising time.
How can I make the glaze thicker?
Use less milk or add extra powdered sugar until the glaze reaches your desired consistency.
Conclusion
These easy one-hour cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat for any time of day. With their soft texture, gooey filling, and rich glaze, they’re sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or indulging in a weekend breakfast, this recipe will become a go-to favorite.
📖 Recipe:
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Easy One-Hour Cinnamon Rolls
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these Easy One-Hour Cinnamon Rolls. Perfectly soft, gooey, and topped with a creamy glaze, this quick recipe uses pantry staples and is ready in just 60 minutes. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, it’s a family favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
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:
- Combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a bowl.
- Mix in warm milk, melted butter, and egg until a dough forms.
- Knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes or use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
- Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling:
- Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon into a paste.
- Roll and Fill:
- Roll dough into a 16×12-inch rectangle.
- Spread filling evenly, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
- Roll and Cut:
- Roll dough tightly from the long side into a log.
- Slice into 12 equal pieces and place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Rise and Bake:
- Cover with a damp towel and let rise for 20 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 18-22 minutes until golden.
- Make the Glaze:
- Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add milk to thin if needed.
- Glaze and Serve:
- Spread glaze over warm rolls and serve.
Notes
To make ahead, prepare up to the baking step and refrigerate overnight.
For extra gooey rolls, drizzle heavy cream over the rolls before baking.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature or 5 days in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 rolls
