Try Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe for soft, delicious, ooey gooey homemade cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing in just 1 hour! These quick cinnamon rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dessert. The best part? You won’t have to wait for the dough to rise! With a delightful blend of warm cinnamon and creamy icing, these rolls are sure to impress family and friends on any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: In just one hour, you can enjoy freshly baked cinnamon rolls without the long wait.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery dough and sweet cinnamon filling creates an irresistible treat.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack throughout the day.
- Easy Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making this recipe simple to whip up anytime.
- Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of making your own cinnamon rolls from scratch!
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into baking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric hand mixer
- Rolling pin
- Dough scraper or knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking pan (9×13)
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric hand mixer: This tool saves time and effort when mixing ingredients for your filling and icing.
- Dough scraper: It helps in cutting the dough evenly without squeezing out the filling.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 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 the 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, use a digital thermometer to check that the temperature of the milk/butter is between 100–110 degrees F. If needed you can microwave longer until it reaches that temperature.
Step 3: Activate Yeast Mixture
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 its lowest setting (mine is 170 degrees F).
Step 5: Add Egg and Dry Ingredients
After 10 minutes, once frothy, remove towel and add in egg, salt, and additional vanilla extract. Begin adding in flour in half-cup increments.
Fold in with a spatula until combined. If easier, use your hands to incorporate the last bit of flour; aim for soft but not too sticky dough.
Step 6: Let Dough Proof
Form dough into a round ball in the bowl and cover with a tea cloth. Turn your oven OFF and place covered dough in warm oven to proof for 10 minutes.
Step 7: Prepare Filling
While your dough is proofing, prepare your cinnamon sugar filling. In a medium size mixing bowl, use an electric hand mixer to combine softened butter, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well mixed. Set aside.
Step 8: Roll Out Dough
Once dough has proofed for 10 minutes, remove towel and place on a large pastry mat or lightly floured surface to roll out. Use a rolling pin to form a rectangle measuring approximately 14” x 18” and about ¼” thick.
Step 9: Spread Filling
Next, preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Use an offset spatula to spread cinnamon sugar mixture on rolled-out dough almost to edges.
Step 10: Roll Up Dough
Starting with short side towards you, tightly roll away from you to form a log.
Step 11: Cut Rolls
Use a dough scraper or knife to pre-mark cuts on rolled dough for even slices—first half it, then half those halves again leading to three slices per section totaling twelve even rolls. Cut each slice using slow sawing motions with serrated knife.
Step 12: Bake
Place sliced cinnamon rolls in greased baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees F for about 20–25 minutes or until they turn light golden brown.
Step 13: Cool Rolls
Let cool on wire rack for about ten minutes.
Step 14: Make Cream Cheese Icing
While cooling, prepare cream cheese icing by combining softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk (adding one tablespoon at a time) with an electric hand mixer until smooth.
Step 15: Ice Rolls
Spread icing over warm cinnamon rolls generously before serving!
Enjoy these delightful Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls fresh out of the oven!
How to Serve Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
These cinnamon rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat any time of day. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
With Fresh Fruit
- Berries – Serve with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
- Bananas – Sliced bananas add a creamy sweetness that pairs beautifully with cinnamon rolls.
Drizzled with Maple Syrup
- Maple Syrup – A drizzle of warm maple syrup can take your cinnamon rolls to the next level of indulgence.
Topped with Nuts
- Chopped Pecans – Sprinkle some chopped pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.
- Walnuts – Chopped walnuts bring a hearty element that complements the soft texture.
Accompanied by Coffee or Tea
- Coffee – A hot cup of coffee makes an ideal pairing for these sweet rolls.
- Herbal Tea – A soothing herbal tea can balance the richness of the icing.
How to Perfect Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
To achieve the best results with your cinnamon rolls, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Yeast – Always check the expiration date on your yeast packet to ensure it activates properly.
- Warm Ingredients – Make sure your milk and butter mixture is warm but not too hot; this helps the dough rise effectively.
- Knead Gently – Knead until just combined; over-kneading can make the rolls tough.
- Preheat Oven Properly – Ensure your oven is preheated before baking to achieve that perfect golden brown color.
- Let Cool Before Icing – Allow your rolls to cool slightly before adding icing; this prevents it from melting away.
- Experiment with Flavors – Feel free to add different spices or extracts into your filling for unique twists on flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Pairing side dishes with cinnamon rolls can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein and balance out the sweetness of the rolls.
- Bacon – Crispy bacon provides a savory contrast that complements the sweet flavors perfectly.
- Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad brings freshness and cuts through the richness of the icing.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a deliciously creamy side dish.
- Smoothie Bowl – A smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds offers a healthy, colorful addition to your meal.
- Oven-Baked Sausage Links – Savory sausages pair wonderfully with sweet cinnamon rolls for a hearty breakfast option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Avoiding these mistakes will help you achieve the perfect rolls every time.
- Using cold ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature, especially the milk and butter. Cold ingredients can hinder yeast activation, leading to dense rolls.
- Neglecting yeast proofing: Always let your yeast mixture sit until it is frothy. This step ensures that your cinnamon rolls rise properly and have a fluffy texture.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon and level method to measure flour rather than scooping directly from the bag. This prevents using too much flour, which can make the dough tough.
- Rolling dough too thin: Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch when rolling out the dough. Rolling it too thin can result in dry cinnamon rolls that lack filling.
- Skipping the cooling time: Allow your cinnamon rolls to cool slightly before icing. If you ice them while they are too hot, the icing will melt away instead of setting beautifully.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container.
- They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Wrap individual cinnamon rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place rolls on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one roll at a time on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat with a lid on. Heat for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions related to the Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe.
Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time, then refrigerate overnight before baking.
How do I store leftover Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them tightly wrapped for 2 months.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but this may change the texture slightly.
Why did my cinnamon rolls not rise?
Your yeast might not have been activated properly. Make sure your liquid is at the right temperature (100-110°F) before mixing with yeast.
Final Thoughts
The Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe offers delightful flavors and a comforting aroma that fills your home. These rolls are perfect for breakfast or any special occasion. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts, raisins, or even different frosting options to suit your taste!
Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Indulge in the delight of homemade sweetness with our Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls Recipe! In just one hour, you can enjoy soft and gooey cinnamon rolls, generously slathered with creamy icing. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dessert to impress family and friends. The warm aroma of cinnamon combined with the rich cream cheese frosting creates an irresistible treat that’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, there’s no waiting for the dough to rise—just quick preparation for instant satisfaction!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 12 rolls
- Category: Breakfast/Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 packet active dry yeast (0.25 ounces)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- Powdered sugar
Instructions
- Melt butter and heat milk until warm (100–110°F). Combine in a bowl.
- Stir in sugar and yeast; let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy.
- Add egg, salt, and half of the flour; mix until combined.
- Gradually incorporate remaining flour to form a soft dough.
- Cover and let proof in a warm oven for 10 minutes.
- Prepare cinnamon filling by mixing softened butter, sugars, cinnamon, and vanilla.
- Roll out dough into a rectangle, spread filling, and roll up tightly.
- Cut into equal slices, place in a greased pan, and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
- Cool slightly before icing with a mixture of cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (75g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
