Cinnamon Rolls

Prep: 50 min Cook: 25 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Warm, fragrant cinnamon rolls with a sweet cinnamon-sugar filling, perfect for breakfast or a special treat. Soft and gooey, they feature a rich buttery taste and optional raisins, appealing to families and dessert lovers alike who enjoy classic bakery favorites with a homemade touch.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup shortening
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 packages active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup warm water (110 to 115°F)
  • 4 1/4 to 4 3/4 cups sifted flour
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon
  • raisins (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and raisins if desired.
  2. Spread half of the mixture on each rectangle of dough.
  3. Scatter nuts over the top if using.
  4. Roll the dough lengthwise as for a jelly roll, sealing the edges.
  5. Cut into 1-inch slices.
  6. Place the slices cut side down in two well-greased 9 x 9 x 2-inch pans.
  7. Cover and let rise for 30 to 40 minutes.
  8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes.
  9. Remove from oven and transfer to wire racks to cool slightly.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of skim. If you're out of shortening, unsalted butter can be a great substitute. To ensure your dough rises properly, make sure your yeast is fresh and your water is at the correct temperature. Kneading the dough thoroughly will yield a fluffier roll. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.

Serving Suggestions

These cinnamon rolls are delightful on their own, but you can pair them with a drizzle of cream cheese icing for added sweetness. They also go well with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For a complete brunch, serve alongside a fresh fruit salad or Noreen'S Angel Food Delight for a light and airy contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Cinnamon Rolls contains roughly 496 calories, with 8g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of iron (16% of the Daily Value), protein (15% of the Daily Value), and calcium (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 749mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).

496 kcal 25% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.6g 15% DV
Total Fat 13.9g 18% DV
Carbs 89.9g 33% DV
Fiber 3g 11% DV
Sugar 30.3g 61% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 748.6mg 33% DV
Potassium 679.3mg 14% DV
Cholesterol 90.9mg 30% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 40.4mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 8mg 9% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 179.2mg 14% DV
Iron 2.8mg 16% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but start with a 50/50 blend to maintain a light texture. Whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid, so you may need to adjust the liquid in the recipe slightly.

How do I know when my cinnamon rolls are done baking?

The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped. You can also use a toothpick; it should come out clean from the center. Baking times may vary slightly based on your oven, so keep an eye on them.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day ahead and let it rise in the refrigerator. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before rolling it out. This method can enhance the flavor and is a great time-saver.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

American recipes → Vegetarian recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →