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Soft & Buttery Cinnamon Rolls

Fluffy, tender cinnamon rolls filled with brown sugar and cinnamon, topped with vanilla cream cheese icing. Simple, classic, and perfect every time.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings 12 rolls

Ingredients
  

Dough:

  • 2 cups whole milk room temperature
  • ½ cup melted butter
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2¼ tsp instant yeast
  • 5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 2 tsp salt

Filling:

  • ¾ cup light brown sugar
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter room temperature
  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon

Icing:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 4 oz cream cheese room temperature
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 tbsp milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
 

  • Mix milk, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Add yeast and let sit 5 minutes.
  • Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt. Knead until smooth. Let rise 60–75 minutes.
  • Beat filling ingredients until smooth. Set aside.
  • Roll dough into 16×20 inch rectangle. Spread filling. Roll up and cut into 12 rolls.
  • Place in greased pan. Let rest 20–30 minutes.
  • Bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes (no more than 35 mins).
  • Beat icing ingredients together until smooth. Spread over warm rolls. Serve.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients for even mixing.
  • Don’t overbake — check at 25 minutes for soft centers.
  • To make ahead, prep rolls and refrigerate overnight. Bring to room temp before baking.
  • Add chopped pecans or a touch of orange zest for variation.