Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Try Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe for soft, delicious, ooey gooey homemade cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing in just 1 hour! These delightful treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack. With their warm, gooey center and creamy icing, they bring comfort to any occasion. You can easily whip them up for family gatherings or surprise your loved ones on a lazy weekend morning.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This cinnamon roll recipe comes together in just one hour without sacrificing flavor.
- No Rise Time: Skip the long waiting periods associated with traditional recipes; these rolls are ready to bake in no time.
- Soft and Gooey Texture: Enjoy melt-in-your-mouth rolls that are perfectly fluffy and filled with rich cinnamon goodness.
- Customizable Icing: The cream cheese icing can be adjusted to your taste—thicker or thinner, it’s up to you!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday breakfast or a simple Sunday treat, these rolls fit every situation.
Tools and Preparation
Getting your kitchen prepped is key for this recipe. Gather the right tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Digital thermometer
- Electric hand mixer
- Rolling pin
- Pastry mat or clean surface
- 9×13 baking pan
Importance of Each Tool
- Digital thermometer: Ensures your milk and butter mixture is at the ideal temperature to activate the yeast effectively.
- Electric hand mixer: Saves time when mixing the filling and icing, making it easy to achieve a smooth consistency.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe:
- 1 cup milk (I recommend whole or 2%)
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 0.25 ounce packet active dry yeast (make sure it’s not expired!)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 Tbsp. cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-4 Tbsp. milk (add 1 tbsp at a time)
How to Make Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
First begin preparing your dough by melting 1/2-stick unsalted butter in a small microwave-safe bowl in the microwave for 40–45 seconds, or until melted. Pour into a medium size bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Heat Milk
Next, heat milk in the same small microwave-safe bowl in the microwave for 45 seconds and pour it into the bowl with the melted butter.
Pro tip: To ensure your yeast mixture properly activates, I recommend using a digital thermometer to check that the temperature of the milk/butter is between 100–110 degrees F. If needed you can microwave a little longer until the temperature is reached, or if the liquid is too hot, wait until it has lowered to between 100–110 degrees F before combining with the yeast/sugar.
Step 3: Activate Yeast
Stir in sugar and yeast packet until dissolved. Cover with a tea cloth/towel or plastic wrap and let sit for 10 minutes.
Step 4: Preheat Oven
While you are waiting for your dough to activate, preheat your oven to the lowest setting (mine is 170 degrees F).
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
After 10 minutes, the yeast mixture should be fully frothy/foamy. Remove towel and add in 1 egg, salt, and vanilla extract.
Step 6: Add Flour
Next, begin adding in flour in 1/2 cup increments, folding in with a spatula until combined. If easier, you can use your hands to incorporate the last bit of flour. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky but not too sticky.
Step 7: Proof Dough
Form dough into a round ball in the bowl and cover with a tea cloth. Turn your oven OFF and place covered dough in the warm oven to proof for about 10 minutes.
Step 8: Prepare Filling
While your dough is proofing, begin preparing your cinnamon sugar filling. In a medium-size mixing bowl, use an electric hand mixer to combine softened butter, brown sugar, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until combined. Set aside.
Step 9: Roll Out Dough
Once dough has proofed for about 10 minutes, remove towel and place dough on a large pastry mat or clean lightly greased/floured surface to roll out. Use a rolling pin to roll the dough into a rectangle measuring approximately 14″ x 18″ and about 1/4″ thick.
Step 10: Spread Filling
Now preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Use an offset spatula to spread the cinnamon sugar butter mixture on your rolled-out dough almost to the edges.
Step 11: Roll Up Dough
Starting with the short side towards you, tightly roll vertically away from you to form a log.
Step 12: Cut Rolls
Once rolled, use a dough scraper or knife to pre-mark the dough for cutting. First mark it in half; then mark half of those halves; finally mark three slices in each section for a total of twelve even cinnamon rolls. Once pre-marked use a serrated edge knife to cut each slice using slow back-and-forth sawing motions.
Step 13: Bake Rolls
Place cinnamon rolls in a greased or non-stick sprayed baking pan (9×13). Bake at 350 degrees F for about 20–25 minutes or until light golden brown.
Step 14: Cool
Let cool for about ten minutes on a wire cooling rack.
Step 15: Make Icing
While cinnamon rolls cool down prepare your cream cheese icing using an electric hand mixer to combine softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk (adding one tablespoon at a time). Whisk until smooth while adjusting consistency as needed by adding more milk if desired.
Step 16: Serve
Spread cream cheese icing on warm cinnamon rolls before serving warm!
Enjoy these delightful treats that come together quickly yet taste like they’ve been made from scratch over hours!
How to Serve Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Serving these Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls is an essential part of enjoying them. Whether for breakfast or brunch, there are many delightful ways to present these sweet treats that will impress your guests and family alike.
With Fresh Fruit
- Berries: Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a refreshing contrast to the warm cinnamon rolls.
- Banana Slices: Sweet banana slices can enhance the flavor and add a healthy touch.
With Coffee or Tea
- Brewed Coffee: A hot cup of coffee complements the sweetness of cinnamon rolls perfectly.
- Herbal Tea: For a lighter option, herbal teas such as chamomile or mint can balance the richness.
With Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on warm cinnamon rolls makes for an indulgent dessert.
- Caramel Ice Cream: This adds a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
Topped with Extra Icing
- Cream Cheese Icing: Drizzling more cream cheese icing on top elevates the sweetness and adds extra creaminess.
- Maple Syrup: A drizzle of maple syrup can create an irresistible combination.
How to Perfect Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Making perfect Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls requires a few tips to ensure they turn out soft and delicious every time. Follow these suggestions for the best results.
- Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is not expired for optimal rise and fluffiness in your rolls.
- Check Dough Temperature: The melted butter and milk should be between 100-110 degrees F for proper activation of yeast.
- Don’t Overwork Dough: Knead just until combined; overworking can make the rolls tough instead of soft.
- Properly Preheat Oven: Make sure your oven is at the right temperature before baking for even cooking.
- Cool Before Icing: Let the rolls cool slightly before adding icing so it doesn’t melt away completely.
- Store Correctly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.
Best Side Dishes for Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some tasty options that complement their sweetness.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance the sweetness of cinnamon rolls.
- Sausage Links: Savory sausage links add a hearty element that contrasts nicely with the sweet rolls.
- Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and brightness to your breakfast spread.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit can serve as a light side dish alongside cinnamon rolls.
- Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns introduce a satisfying crunch that pairs well with soft cinnamon treats.
- Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts or fruit offers a wholesome addition to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making cinnamon rolls can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to keep in mind. Avoiding these will ensure your Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe turns out perfect every time.
- Using expired yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast packet. If it’s expired, your rolls won’t rise properly. Use fresh yeast for the best results.
- Not measuring ingredients correctly: Baking is a science! Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure that you get the right amounts of each ingredient for the best texture and flavor.
- Skipping the proofing step: Allowing your dough to proof is essential for developing flavor and softness. Don’t rush this step; let it sit for at least 10 minutes in a warm place.
- Overbaking the rolls: Keep an eye on your cinnamon rolls while they bake. Overbaking can lead to dry rolls. They should be golden brown but not dark.
- Not letting them cool before icing: Applying icing while the rolls are too hot can cause it to melt away. Let them cool slightly for the best cream cheese icing experience.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days when properly stored.
Freezing Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Freeze cinnamon rolls before baking for up to 2 months.
- Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual rolls on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place rolls in a pan over low heat, cover, and heat gently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making this easy cinnamon roll recipe.
How Long Do Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Take To Make?
The total time for this recipe is just one hour, including both prep and cooking time.
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. Start with half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose if you’re experimenting.
What Should I Do If My Yeast Doesn’t Foam?
If your yeast doesn’t foam after mixing it with warm milk and sugar, it may be dead. Start over with fresh yeast to ensure proper rising.
Can I Customize My Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, raisins, or different spices like nutmeg for a twist on classic flavors.
How Do I Store Leftover Cinnamon Rolls?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
This Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is perfect for quick breakfasts or delightful treats. The soft texture and sweet cream cheese icing make them irresistible! You can customize these rolls with various fillings or toppings, making them versatile enough to suit any taste. Give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!
Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the warm, sweet embrace of our Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe! These soft, gooey rolls topped with creamy cream cheese icing are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful sweet snack. With no rise time required, you can whip up these treats in just one hour and impress your family and friends. The irresistible aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen will make this quick recipe a go-to for lazy weekend mornings or special occasions. Customize the icing to your taste and enjoy these comforting rolls any time!
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- Powdered sugar
Instructions
- Melt butter and heat milk together until warm (100–110°F). Mix in sugar and yeast; let sit for 10 minutes.
- Combine the yeast mixture with egg, salt, and vanilla. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms.
- Shape dough into a ball and let it proof in a warm oven for about 10 minutes.
- Prepare the filling by mixing softened butter, sugars, cinnamon, and vanilla.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread the filling over it, and roll tightly.
- Slice into rolls and place in a greased baking pan. Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool slightly before topping with cream cheese icing made from mixing softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (approximately 85g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
