These soft, fluffy homemade Cinnamon Rolls are a classic Easter Day dessert that kids (and adults!) absolutely love. Filled with a buttery cinnamon-sugar swirl and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, these rolls are perfect for Easter morning, brunch, or as a fun baking project the whole family can enjoy. This recipe delivers bakery-style cinnamon rolls with tender centers, golden edges, and just the right amount of sweetness—ideal for creating warm, memorable holiday moments.

Prep & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Servings: 12
  • Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls

Ingredients

Dough

  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 ½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour

Filling

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

  1. Activate the yeast:
    In a large bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. If it doesn’t foam, the yeast may be expired or the milk too hot or cold.
  2. Make the dough:
    Stir sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt into the yeast mixture. Gradually add flour, 1 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead and rise:
    Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
  4. Prepare the filling:
    In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
  5. Roll and fill:
    Roll the risen dough into a 16x12-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
  6. Shape the rolls:
    Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut into 12 equal slices using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss.
  7. Second rise:
    Place rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes until puffy.
  8. Bake:
    Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 22–25 minutes, or until lightly golden and cooked through.
  9. Glaze and serve:
    Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.

Tips & Best Practices

  • For extra-soft rolls, avoid adding too much flour—the dough should be slightly tacky.
  • Let kids help spread the filling or drizzle the glaze for a fun Easter activity.
  • Rolls can be made the night before and baked fresh in the morning.

Nutrition Facts (per serving) — Estimated values

  • Calories: 345
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Total Sugars: 26g
  • Protein: 6g

Conclusion

These homemade Cinnamon Rolls are a warm, comforting Easter dessert that brings smiles to the table—especially for kids who love sweet, soft treats. Whether served for Easter breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet special enough for a holiday celebration. Bake a batch, drizzle generously with glaze, and enjoy a festive treat that’s sure to become a family favorite.

RecipesEaster RecipesHoliday Recipes