Soft Cinnamon Rolls

Prep: 90 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Soft Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon and sugar with a fluffy, tender dough. Perfect for brunch or a cozy breakfast, these rolls are sure to please everyone at the table, making them a favorite for families and gatherings alike.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 c. warm water
  • 2 pkg. dry yeast
  • 2 Tbsp. sugar
  • 1 (3 1/2 oz.) pkg. instant vanilla pudding
  • 1/2 c. margarine, melted
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 6 c. flour

Instructions

  1. Combine warm water, yeast, and sugar; stir until dissolved.
  2. Set aside.
  3. Mix instant pudding according to package directions.
  4. Mix melted margarine, beaten eggs, and salt; then add to pudding mixture, followed by the yeast mixture.
  5. Add flour and knead until smooth.
  6. Place the dough in a greased bowl.
  7. Cover and let rise until doubled in size.
  8. Punch down the dough; let rise again.
  9. Roll out the dough and spread with 2 tablespoons of melted margarine.
  10. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup brown sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
  11. Roll up the dough and cut into about 1-inch slices.
  12. Place in greased pans and let rise until doubled again.
  13. Bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
  14. Drizzle with powdered sugar glaze.

Tips & Substitutions

For softer rolls, ensure your yeast is fresh and active; proof it by mixing it with warm water and sugar before adding to the dough. If you don't have instant pudding, you can substitute with an equal amount of cornstarch mixed with a little vanilla extract. Additionally, using bread flour can enhance the texture of your rolls.

Serving Suggestions

These soft cinnamon rolls are perfect for breakfast or brunch, served warm with a drizzle of the powdered sugar glaze. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Consider serving them alongside Cranbrosia Salad for a delightful contrast of flavors, or as a sweet ending to a hearty meal.

Storage & Reheating

Once cooled, store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Soft Cinnamon Rolls contains roughly 162 calories, with 3g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 682mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).

162 kcal 8% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.7g 5% DV
Total Fat 7.6g 10% DV
Carbs 21.5g 8% DV
Fiber 1.6g 6% DV
Sugar 0.5g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 682.3mg 30% DV
Potassium 119.6mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 21.8mg 7% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 5.9mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 3.7mg 4% DV
Calcium 53mg 4% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains 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 make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before. After kneading, place it in the refrigerator instead of letting it rise. The next day, allow it to come to room temperature and rise before rolling and baking. This can enhance the flavor of your rolls.

What can I do if my dough doesn't rise?

If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to inactive yeast or incorrect temperature. Ensure your yeast is fresh and that the water used is warm, but not hot. If the environment is too cold, try placing the dough in a warm, draft-free spot to encourage rising.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the filling?

Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts or raisins can provide extra flavor and texture to your cinnamon rolls. Simply sprinkle them along with the brown sugar and cinnamon before rolling up the dough. Just be mindful of the additional moisture they might introduce.

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).

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