Start your day on a delightfully sweet note with these irresistible Cinnamon Sugar Breakfast Rolls! Soft, fluffy dough swirled generously with warm cinnamon and sparkling sugar creates a heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen and a flavor that feels like a cozy hug in every bite. Perfect for weekend breakfasts, holiday mornings, or whenever you crave a comforting homemade pastry, these rolls are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you serve them fresh from the oven or warm them up later, they promise to bring smiles and satisfied appetites around your breakfast table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Soft, pillowy rolls loaded with classic cinnamon sugar that melts into a sweet, gooey swirl.
Perfect balance of spice and sweetness that’s comforting without being overwhelming.
Versatile enough to be enjoyed plain or drizzled with icing or cream cheese glaze for an extra indulgence.
Ideal for sharing — whether for family breakfasts, brunch with friends, or festive gatherings.
Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it a rewarding baking project for any skill level.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Breakfast Rolls
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Cinnamon Sugar Breakfast Rolls. Here’s what you’ll need:
All-purpose flour: The backbone of your dough, providing structure and softness.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough, balancing the flavors perfectly.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the rolls rise, giving them that fluffy texture.
Salt: A pinch enhances the overall flavor, making the sweetness pop.
Milk: Brings moisture to the dough, creating a tender crumb.
Unsalted butter: Used in two ways—melted for the dough and softened for the filling, adding richness.
Large egg: Acts as a binder, helping the dough hold together while adding a touch of richness.
Ground cinnamon: The star of the show! It infuses the rolls with that warm, comforting flavor.
Brown sugar: Adds a deeper sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor to the filling.
Powdered sugar: Essential for the glaze, giving it that sweet, smooth finish.
Optional ingredients: Consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor or substituting cinnamon with nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
For those who love cream cheese, a cream cheese glaze can elevate these rolls even further. Just mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and milk until smooth. You’ll find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Breakfast Rolls
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your Cinnamon Sugar Breakfast Rolls bake evenly. While the oven heats up, grab a 9-inch round cake pan. Grease it with a bit of butter or line it with parchment paper. This will prevent the rolls from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Trust me, a well-prepared pan is key to achieving that perfect golden-brown finish!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial as it combines the dry ingredients evenly, ensuring your rolls rise beautifully. The sugar adds sweetness, while the baking powder acts as a leavening agent. Make sure there are no lumps in the flour. A smooth mixture sets the stage for a fluffy, delightful dough!
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the milk, melted butter, and egg until well combined. The melted butter adds richness, while the egg helps bind everything together. This mixture will bring moisture to your dough, making it soft and tender. Don’t rush this step; take your time to ensure everything is blended smoothly. A well-mixed wet mixture is essential for the perfect Cinnamon Sugar Breakfast Rolls!
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to tough rolls, and we want them soft and fluffy! This is where the magic begins, as the dough starts to come together into a beautiful, cohesive mixture.
Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Use a rolling pin for an even thickness. This step is crucial for creating those lovely layers in your rolls. If the dough sticks, sprinkle a little more flour on the surface. The goal is to have a nice, flat rectangle that will hold all that delicious filling!
Step 6: Add Filling
Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough. This will help the cinnamon-sugar mixture stick. In a small bowl, mix the ground cinnamon and brown sugar together, then sprinkle it generously over the buttered dough. Make sure to cover every inch! This filling is what makes these rolls so irresistible, creating that sweet, gooey center we all love.
Step 7: Roll and Cut
Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seam to seal it well. Once rolled, use a sharp knife to cut the log into 8 equal pieces. Place these pieces in the prepared pan, cut side up. This step is where the anticipation builds, as you can already imagine the deliciousness that awaits!
Step 8: Bake the Rolls
Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want the rolls to turn a lovely golden brown. When they’re done, the aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for!
Step 9: Prepare the Glaze
While the rolls are baking, it’s time to prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of milk until smooth. Adjust the milk to achieve your desired consistency. This glaze will add a sweet finish to your rolls, making them even more delightful. It’s the cherry on top of your baking masterpiece!
Step 10: Drizzle and Serve
Once the rolls have cooled for a few minutes, it’s time to drizzle the glaze over the top. Use a spoon or a piping bag for a more decorative touch. Let the glaze soak in a bit, then serve warm. These Cinnamon Sugar Breakfast Rolls are best enjoyed fresh, so gather your loved ones and dig in. You’ve created a sweet morning treat that’s sure to impress!
Tips for Success
Measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
Don’t skip the resting time for the dough; it helps with texture.
Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother dough.
Experiment with different spices like nutmeg for a unique twist.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Equipment Needed
Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes is ideal; you can use any large bowl if needed.
Whisk: Perfect for mixing dry and wet ingredients; a fork works in a pinch.
Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out dough; a wine bottle can substitute.
Sharp knife: For cutting the rolls; kitchen scissors can also do the trick.
9-inch round cake pan: Use any oven-safe dish if you don’t have one.
Variations
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cinnamon-sugar filling for a crunchy texture.
Fruit-Filled: Incorporate fresh berries or sliced apples into the filling for a fruity twist.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flax egg and use plant-based milk and butter.
Chocolate Lovers: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips along with the cinnamon-sugar for a decadent treat.
Serving Suggestions
Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of mixed berries or sliced bananas for a refreshing contrast.
Coffee or Tea: Pair with a hot cup of coffee or herbal tea to complement the sweetness.
Presentation: Dust with extra powdered sugar before serving for a beautiful finish.
Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on the side for an indulgent touch.
FAQs about Cinnamon Sugar Breakfast Rolls
Can I make Cinnamon Sugar Breakfast Rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling the night before. Just roll, cut, and place the rolls in the pan, then cover and refrigerate. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This way, you’ll have fresh rolls ready to go!
What can I use instead of all-purpose flour?
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s a 1:1 substitute. You can also try whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, but keep in mind that it may change the texture slightly.
How do I store leftover rolls?
To keep your Cinnamon Sugar Breakfast Rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll last for about a month!
Can I add other flavors to the filling?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. You can mix in chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips for a fun twist. Just remember to adjust the amount of cinnamon and sugar accordingly to balance the flavors.
What’s the best way to reheat the rolls?
The best way to reheat your rolls is in the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the rolls on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This will help them regain their soft texture. You can also microwave them for about 15-20 seconds, but they may lose some of their fluffiness.
Final Thoughts
Creating these Cinnamon Sugar Breakfast Rolls is more than just baking; it’s about crafting moments of joy. The aroma that fills your kitchen, the warm, gooey texture, and that first bite of sweet cinnamon bliss can transform an ordinary morning into something special. Whether you’re sharing them with family or savoring them solo, these rolls bring a sense of comfort and nostalgia. They remind us that sometimes, the simplest pleasures in life—like a warm roll fresh from the oven—can create the most delightful memories. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy this sweet adventure!
Cinnamon Sugar Breakfast Rolls are a delightful sweet treat perfect for mornings, featuring a soft dough rolled with a cinnamon and brown sugar filling, topped with a sweet glaze.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
1–2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, and egg. Mix well.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
Spread the softened butter for the filling evenly over the dough.
In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and brown sugar, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seam to seal.
Cut the log into 8 equal pieces and place them in the prepared pan, cut side up.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
Once the rolls are done, let them cool for a few minutes before drizzling the glaze over the top.
Notes
For a richer flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the wet ingredients.
You can also substitute the cinnamon with nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a different twist.
For a cream cheese glaze, mix 4 oz of softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
