Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls Recipe for Ultimate Comfort Food

There’s nothing quite like walking into a home filled with the sweet, intoxicating scent of freshly baked Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls. The warm, buttery dough slowly rises, enveloped in a cozy embrace of cinnamon and sugar, promising you that first heavenly bite. Imagine pulling apart a soft, gooey roll, the steam swirling as you delve in, only to discover that creamy cream cheese icing, melting and mingling with the tender dough. It’s a slice of happiness on a plate, perfect for lazy Sunday mornings or any occasion that calls for a sprinkle of joy.

This recipe isn’t just about ingredients; it’s about the memories that swirl around the kitchen. Picture Sunday brunch at grandma’s, where laughter fills the air, and cinnamon rolls are the star of the table, bringing everyone together like old friends. The anticipation builds as you watch those rolls puff up beautifully, ready to be smothered in icing. Enjoying these delightful rolls is like wrapping yourself in a warm hug, making them a perfect treat any time you crave comfort and joy.

Ingredients for Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls:

4 large eggs – These will enrich the dough, giving it that velvety smooth texture that melts in your mouth.

3/4 cup warm whole milk (100 to 110F [35 to 42C]) – The warmth activates the yeast, making your rolls rise to fluffy perfection.

1/4 cup honey – This adds a natural sweetness and helps keep the rolls moist.

4 cups all-purpose flour – Your canvas for creating the perfect dough; make sure it’s freshly sifted for lightness.

2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast – This is what makes the magic happen, contributing to that soft rise.

2 teaspoons salt – A key player that enhances the flavors and strengthens the dough.

10 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 1 in [2.5 cm] pieces, at room temperature – Adds richness and helps create that soft texture we all adore.

1/2 cup packed brown sugar – This provides a delightful caramel-like sweetness, taking the cinnamon rolls to another level.

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – The star of the show; it brings warmth and that wonderfully nostalgic aroma.

Pinch salt – A tiny touch to balance the sweetness of the brown sugar.

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled – To brush on the dough before rolling, ensuring the cinnamon-sugar mix adheres beautifully.

8 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature – Used in the dough, creating that pillowy softness.

4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature – This creamy delight forms the base of the irresistible frosting.

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla enhances all the flavors, making everything just a bit more special.

1/4 teaspoon salt – A must for the frosting, ensuring the flavors blend beautifully.

1 cup confectioners’ sugar – For that sweet, creamy topping that makes these rolls utterly irresistible.

How to Make Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Grease a large bowl and set it aside. In a large liquid measuring cup, whisk together the eggs, warm milk, and honey until well combined. Meanwhile, in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, mix together the flour, instant yeast, and salt on low speed.

Step 2: Bring it All Together
Slowly add the egg mixture to the flour blend and mix until just combined. With the mixer on low, gradually add the butter pieces, one at a time. Once all the butter has been added, crank the speed up to medium and mix for about a minute until the dough is smooth and well incorporated.

Step 3: First Rise
Scrape the sticky dough into the greased bowl using a spatula. Cover it with plastic wrap, allowing it to rise in a warm, cozy spot for approximately 30 minutes.

Step 4: Fold and Chill
After 30 minutes, gently pull the dough up and fold it back over itself. Turn the bowl and repeat this folding motion until you have given it four folds, allowing the dough to rise for 30 minutes between each folding session. Then, cover the bowl tightly and pop it in the fridge to chill overnight or up to 72 hours for the best flavor.

Step 5: Roll and Fill
When you’re ready to bake, remove the dough from the fridge and let it come to room temperature. Flour a work surface and knead the dough about 10 to 12 times until smooth. Shape it into a ball and then roll it out into a 16 by 12 in [30.5 by 40.5 cm] rectangle. Brush the melted butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top. Gently press it into the butter to make it stick.

Step 6: Shape and Bake
Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a cylinder and pinch the seam to seal it. Cut the dough into 12 equal pieces and arrange them cut-side up in a greased 9 by 13 in [23 by 33 cm] pan. Cover with plastic wrap for about 1 to 1.5 hours, allowing them to rise until doubled. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake for 27 to 32 minutes until golden brown.

Transfer the baked rolls to a wire rack and cool for about 5 minutes before icing. For the icing, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth, then add vanilla, salt, and confectioners’ sugar. Whisk until fluffy and spread a thin layer over the rolls. Let them cool another 15 to 20 minutes, then top with the remaining icing before serving.

These Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls are not just a treat; they are an experience that brings warmth to the heart and smiles to the table. Perfect for any occasion or just because you deserve a little indulgence today!

Perfecting Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls Cooking Process

To achieve the best results with your Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls, begin by mixing your dry ingredients first. Then, combine the wet ingredients separately. This sequence ensures an even distribution and a smoother dough.

Add Your Touch to Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls

Consider adding a dash of nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth. You can also swap out the brown sugar for maple syrup or experiment with different fillings like chocolate or pecans.

Storing & Reheating Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls

To store your leftovers, place the cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that just-baked warmth.

It was a lazy Sunday morning when I decided to whip up these Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls. The delighted squeals from my family when they took that first gooey bite are moments I cherish forever.

FAQs About Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls

What is Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls?

Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful breakfast treat known for their light, airy texture and rich, sweet flavor. These rolls are made with a soft dough combined with warm milk, eggs, and butter, which creates a tender crumb once baked. Swirls of cinnamon and brown sugar add an irresistible sweetness, while a creamy cream cheese icing drizzled on top elevates the experience to pure indulgence. Enjoyed best fresh from the oven, these rolls are perfect for brunch or a cozy family breakfast.

How do I achieve the best texture in Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls?

To ensure your Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls have the ideal texture, it’s essential to follow the resting and rising periods closely. Letting the dough rest in a warm environment gives the yeast time to work, creating that light, airy quality. Additionally, incorporating the butter slowly into the dough and kneading it gently contributes to its pillowy structure. Always let your rolls rise until they double in size for a fluffy bite.

Can I make Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare your Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls the night before. After shaping the rolls, place them in the baking pan and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight, allowing the dough to rise slowly. In the morning, simply let them come to room temperature before baking. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to develop even more.

How should I store leftover Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls?

To keep your leftover Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to extend their life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For the best taste and texture, briefly warm them in the microwave or oven before serving, as this will help to recreate that freshly baked warmth and gooey goodness.

Conclusion for Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls

In summary, Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls are not only a delicious treat but also an excellent way to bring warmth to any gathering. With simple ingredients and a little patience during the dough preparation, anyone can craft these delightful rolls. Whether enjoyed for breakfast or a special occasion, they promise to leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and experience the fluffy perfection of Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls for yourself!

Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls

Experience the ultimate comfort food with these Pillowy Soft Cinnamon Rolls, perfectly sweet and gooey.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Additional Time 3 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Total Time 4 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Servings: 10 rolls

Course: Dessert Recipes

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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• 4 large eggs
• 3/4 cup warm whole milk 100 to 110F [35 to 42C]
• 1/4 cup honey
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 10 tablespoons unsalted butter cut into 1 inch [2.5 cm] pieces, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted and cooled
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter room temperature
• 4 ounces cream cheese room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup confectioners' sugar

Equipment

• Stand mixer
• large bowl
• 9 by 13 inch baking pan
• liquid measuring cup
• spatula
• Plastic wrap

Method

 

Preparation

1. Grease a large bowl.
2. In a large liquid measuring cup, combine the eggs, milk, and honey.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle, mix the flour, yeast, and salt on low to combine. Add the egg mixture and mix on low to combine.
4. With the mixer on low, add the butter, one piece at a time. When all the butter has been added, increase the speed to medium and beat the butter into the dough until incorporated, about 1 minute.
5. Transfer the dough to the prepared bowl. The dough will be very sticky and require a spatula to scrape into the bowl.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise for 30 minutes.
7. Gently pull the dough up and fold it back over itself. Turn the bowl and repeat this folding until all the dough has been folded over. Repeat this for a total of 4 foldings, letting rise for 30 minutes between each.
8. Tightly cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or up to 72 hours.
9. Flour a work surface and knead the cold dough 10 to 12 times. Shape the dough into a ball, cover with flour, and let come to room temperature.
10. Grease a 9 by 13 in [23 by 33 cm] pan; optionally line with parchment paper.
11. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and pinch of salt.
12. Roll the dough into a 16 by 12 in [30.5 by 40.5 cm] rectangle. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top. Press lightly into the butter.
13. Starting at a long side, roll the dough into a tight cylinder. Pinch the seam gently to seal it and position seam side down. Cut the dough into 12 equal pieces and transfer them cut side up to the prepared pan.
14. Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap and let rise until doubled, 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
15. Adjust an oven rack to the middle position and preheat the oven to 350F [180C]. Remove the plastic and bake for 27 to 32 minutes until golden brown, rotating the pan halfway through.
16. Transfer the pan to a wire rack and let cool for 5 minutes. Apply a thin layer of the cream cheese icing using about one-third of the mixture. Let cool for another 15 to 20 minutes, then top with the remaining icing and serve.
17. For the icing, beat the butter and cream cheese in a stand mixer on medium until smooth. Add vanilla and salt, then mix. Add confectioners' sugar and mix on low until combined. Scrape down the sides and mix on medium until light and fluffy for 3 to 4 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1roll

Notes

For best results, let the finished dish rest before serving to enhance texture and flavor.

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