1-Hour Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

If you have ever dreamed of waking up to the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls but thought they were too time-consuming, I have fantastic news for you! This 1-Hour Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe transforms that dream into reality with a simple, speedy method that yields soft, fluffy, and irresistibly fragrant rolls. You will love how the perfectly balanced combination of cinnamon and honey filling blends with a tender dough, capped with luscious cream cheese frosting that melts right in your mouth. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate and comes together quickly enough to impress any brunch guest or brighten your weekend mornings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, each playing an essential role in creating that classic cinnamon roll experience. From the creamy butter that enriches the dough to the rapid rise yeast that speeds everything up, every component is a star in this delicious show.

• Milk (1 cup, room temperature): Provides moisture and warmth to activate the yeast while contributing to a tender crumb.
• Unsalted butter (1/3 cup melted and cooled + 1/3 cup softened): Adds richness and softness — melted butter goes into the dough, softened butter spreads on the dough for the filling.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup + 1 cup for filling): Sweetens the dough and creates caramelized pockets inside the roll.
• Table salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances the flavors and balances sweetness perfectly.
• Rapid rise yeast (4 1/2 teaspoons/2 packages): Speeds up the rise so you get fluffy rolls in a snap.
• Flour (4 to 4 1/2 cups): Forms the base of the dough, giving structure to the rolls.
• Egg (1 large): Adds richness and helps bind the dough.
• Honey or molasses (1/3 cup): Brings depth and a hint of floral sweetness to the filling.
• Ground cinnamon (2 tablespoons): The star spice that defines these cinnamon rolls with its warm, aromatic flavor.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: Either homemade or store-bought, it crowns the rolls with a tangy-sweet finish.

How to Make 1-Hour Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Butter

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s ready when you finish. Melt the butter and combine it with room temperature milk, sugar, and salt in a bowl. The mixture should feel warm but not hot—around 105 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit—for perfect yeast activation. This warm butter and milk blend also ensures the dough stays tender and flavorful.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast with Flour

In a large mixing bowl, stir the rapid rise yeast together with 2 cups of flour until everything is nicely combined. This step kickstarts the dough by evenly distributing the yeast for that quick, exciting rise.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the warm butter and milk mixture into the flour and yeast bowl. Add in the egg and stir everything until the dough starts to come together smoothly. This step infuses the mixture with moisture and structure, making the rolls soft and luscious.

Step 4: Add Remaining Flour and Knead

Slowly add the remaining flour, approximately 2 more cups, about half a cup at a time. The dough should pull away from the sides of the bowl easily. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle flour 1 tablespoon at a time until manageable but still soft to the touch. Avoid adding too much or your cinnamon rolls will lose their tender crumb. This balance is crucial for that perfect texture in this 1-Hour Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe.

Step 5: Rest the Dough

Let your dough rest for 10 minutes, rallying itself to become elastic and easier to work with. This short rest time prepares the dough for rolling and filling, speeding up the whole process without sacrificing flavor or fluffiness.

Step 6: Prepare Baking Pan and Rolling Surface

While the dough rests, line your baking dish with parchment paper or grease it generously. Flour your rolling surface and roll the dough out to about a 12 by 16-inch rectangle. This sizing creates just the right thickness for soft, pillowy cinnamon rolls with perfectly swirled centers.

Step 7: Spread the Filling

Using the softened butter, coat the dough entirely but leave a 1-inch border without butter on the edges to help seal the roll. Next, mix together the sugar, honey (or molasses), and ground cinnamon, then sprinkle this fragrant filling evenly over the buttered dough. This combination delivers the sweet, gooey pockets of cinnamon magic you’re craving.

Step 8: Roll and Slice the Dough

Roll the dough tightly into a log shape, pinching the edge to seal the seam so the rolls maintain their shape while baking. Slice into 1 to 1.5-inch rounds and place them comfortably spaced in your prepared baking dish.

Step 9: Let the Rolls Rise

Cover the pan with a damp towel and let the rolls rise in a warm spot for about 25 minutes or until they puff up beautifully. Depending on your yeast and kitchen temperature, this may take a little longer, but it’s key to that fluffy texture everyone loves.

Step 10: Bake to Perfection

Slide the cinnamon rolls into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 22 minutes until their tops are a light golden brown. The smell alone will make it hard to wait!

Step 11: Frost and Enjoy

When the rolls come out warm, let them cool slightly, then slather with creamy cream cheese frosting. This luscious topping adds just the right tang and sweetness, making every bite downright irresistible.

How to Serve 1-Hour Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

While the classic cream cheese frosting is heavenly on its own, try dusting your rolls with a little powdered sugar or a pinch of extra cinnamon for a pretty finish. For a festive twist, sprinkle chopped nuts or drizzle a little melted caramel on top.

Side Dishes

Serve these cinnamon rolls alongside a steaming mug of coffee, a glass of cold milk, or fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness. A light yogurt parfait with berries pairs wonderfully as well, adding a fresh contrast to the warm, gooey rolls.

Creative Ways to Present

Give presentation a personal touch by serving the rolls on a rustic wooden board with fresh flowers or herbs scattered around. For parties, place each roll in decorative paper liners or offer mini individual portions with small jars of extra glaze for dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which might be hard, but it can happen!), store the cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and prevents the frosting from drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze baked rolls for up to 3 months. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently in the microwave or oven before frosting.

Reheating

To revive your cinnamon rolls, heat them in the microwave for about 20 seconds or warm in a 300-degree oven for 5-7 minutes. This will bring back that fresh-baked softness and melt the frosting perfectly once applied.

FAQs

Can I use regular yeast instead of rapid rise yeast?

Yes, you can! Just allow extra rising time—typically about 1 to 1 ½ hours for the dough to double in size before shaping and baking.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the dough, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bring it back to room temperature before rolling and baking.

What can I use instead of honey or molasses in the filling?

Maple syrup or golden syrup are great substitutes that provide a similar sweetness and moisture balance.

Is cream cheese frosting necessary?

While it’s traditional and delicious, you can also use a simple vanilla glaze or even a dusting of powdered sugar if you prefer something lighter.

How can I make these cinnamon rolls vegan?

Replace the milk with a plant-based alternative, use vegan butter, and omit the egg or use a flax egg. Use vegan cream cheese for frosting, and you’re good to go!

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the joy of pulling warm cinnamon rolls fresh from the oven, especially when they come together so quickly. This 1-Hour Easy Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is truly a lifesaver and a delight, combining ease and deliciousness in every bite. Give it a try—you’ll wonder why you ever thought cinnamon rolls had to take all day!

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