Before you cook
Background Recipe story & origin
Cinnamon rolls likely originated in Sweden, where 'kanelbullar' have been made since at least the 1920s. American cinnamon rolls evolved differently, becoming larger, sweeter, and topped with cream cheese frosting-a distinctly American addition. The dough is enriched with butter, eggs, and milk, rolled with cinnamon-sugar filling, cut into rounds, and baked until golden. Mall chains like Cinnabon (founded 1985) popularized ultra-sweet, oversized versions. Traditional Scandinavian buns use cardamom and pearl sugar; American versions emphasize cinnamon and gooey frosting.
Before you start Equipment you'll need
- 9x13 baking pan — Holds cinnamon rolls during baking and provides even heat distribution for golden brown results
- stand mixer — Kneads dough more efficiently than hand kneading and develops gluten with less effort
Safety Safety & allergen notes
- Use caution with hot surfaces and oils.
- Handle knives carefully when prepping ingredients.
- Ensure proteins are cooked to safe internal temperatures.
Non-negotiables Rules for success
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Make the dough
Combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tbsp sugar. Let sit 5 minutes until foamy. Mix in remaining sugar, b...
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Fill and roll
Roll dough to 16x12 rectangle. Spread with softened butter. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, sprinkle e...
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Rise and bake
Place rolls in greased 9x13 pan. Cover, rise 30 minutes. Bake at 350°F 22-25 minutes until golden.
Prep Get set first
About 10 min of prep
- Prepare 9x13 baking pan
- Prepare stand mixer
This recipe takes about 25 minutes total.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Make the dough
Combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tbsp sugar. Let sit 5 minutes until foamy. Mix in remaining sugar, butter, egg, salt, and flour. Knead until smooth, 8 minutes. Rise in warm place 1 hour until doubled.
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Fill and roll
Roll dough to 16x12 rectangle. Spread with softened butter. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, sprinkle evenly over. Roll up tightly from long side. Cut into 12 pieces.
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Rise and bake
Place rolls in greased 9x13 pan. Cover, rise 30 minutes. Bake at 350°F 22-25 minutes until golden.
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Make the frosting and serve
Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Spread over warm rolls.