The scent of warm cinnamon wafting through the air instantly transports me back to childhood holiday mornings, when our kitchen was the heart of celebration. The soft Christmas cinnamon rolls I’m about to share are more than a breakfast treat; they embody the warmth and joy of the season. With their gooey brown sugar filling, luscious cream cheese frosting, and a drizzle of caramel, these rolls promise a delightful start to your festive day.

What makes them even more special? You can prepare the dough the night before, allowing you to leisurely enjoy the magic of freshly baked rolls while unwrapping gifts—no morning chaos necessary! Imagine gathering with loved ones around the table, laughter and cheer mingling with the aromatic allure of cinnamon. These cinnamon rolls are not just a recipe; they’re a ticket to creating cherished holiday memories. Ready to roll? Let’s dive into this delicious, make-ahead delight!

Why are Cinnamon Rolls the Ultimate Holiday Treat?

Delightful warmth: The soft, pillowy texture of these rolls will envelop your taste buds, making every bite feel like a cozy hug.

Gooey center: With a rich brown sugar filling, they are irresistibly sticky and sweet, perfect for satisfying your holiday cravings.

Make-ahead magic: Prepare the dough a day prior for a stress-free morning, leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities.

Family favorite: Kids and adults alike will gather round to savor these rolls, making them a show-stopper at any holiday brunch.

Versatile delight: Feel free to switch up toppings or add-in ingredients, such as nuts or raisins, to make them your own!

Imagine the joyful hustle and bustle of the holidays paired with the scent of freshly baked cinnamon rolls filling your home; there’s truly nothing like it!

Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients

• To craft these soft, gooey cinnamon rolls, gather the following ingredients.

For the Dough

Warm Milk (1 cup, 110°F) – Activates yeast for proper rise; it should feel comfortable on your wrist.
Active Dry Yeast (2.25 tsp) – Leavening agent for a fluffy texture; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
Brown Sugar (1 tbsp + ½ cup packed for filling) – Adds delightful sweetness and rich flavor; can substitute with white sugar if necessary.
All-Purpose Flour (4 cups) – Provides structure; using a brand like King Arthur helps ensure consistency.
Salted Butter (6 tbsp melted + 6 tbsp softened for filling) – Adds richness; margarine can work in place of softened butter if needed.
Vanilla Bean Powder (½ tsp or 1 tsp vanilla extract) – Enhances flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
Eggs (3 large, room temperature) – Provides moisture and richness; be sure they are at room temperature for smoother mixing.

For the Filling

Sugar (¼ cup for filling) – Sweetens the filling; coconut sugar is a good substitute for a less refined option.
Cinnamon (1 tbsp, freshly ground preferred) – Key flavor ingredient; freshly ground cinnamon will elevate the aroma and taste.

For the Frosting

Cream Cheese (4 oz, room temperature) – Base for frosting; ensures a creamy, smooth texture that complements the rolls perfectly.
Powdered Sugar (3 cups, sifted) – Sweetens the frosting; sifting prevents lumps for a fluffy finish.
Caramel Sauce (⅓ cup, Ghirardelli preferred) – Adds a rich topping; feel free to swap it for chocolate sauce for a variation.
Flaky Sea Salt (optional) – Provides a sophisticated contrast in frosting; sprinkle on top to enhance the overall flavor.

With these carefully selected ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from creating memorable cinnamon rolls that will warm your holiday mornings!

How to Make Cinnamon Rolls

Combine warm milk, yeast, and brown sugar in a bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, signaling that your yeast is activated and ready to rise.
Mix in melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and salt. Gradually add the flour, kneading the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, about 4-5 minutes of loving kneading!
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until it’s doubled in size.
Prepare the filling by mixing brown sugar, sugar, and cinnamon in a separate bowl. The sweet aroma will start filling your kitchen—how delightful!
Roll the risen dough out into a 12×18-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the softened butter over the dough, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly, and tightly roll it into a log.
Cut the log into 12-15 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for cleaner edges, then place them in a greased baking dish. Cover and let them rise for an additional 15-20 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re a beautiful golden brown.
Make the frosting by melting butter until golden brown. Allow it to cool slightly, then whisk together with cream cheese, powdered sugar, caramel, and salt until fluffy and smooth.
Frost the warm rolls immediately, allowing the frosting to melt into all the delicious crevices, creating an irresistible topping for your cinnamon rolls.

Optional: Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top for an added sweet touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Rolls

Use Warm Milk: For optimal yeast activation, ensure your milk is a comfortable 110°F. Too hot can kill the yeast!
Knead Gently: Avoid overworking the dough; knead just until it’s smooth and elastic (4-5 minutes). Tender dough makes for softer cinnamon rolls.
Proper Rising: Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area. Using your oven light can create the perfect environment!
Cut with Care: Use dental floss to slice the log into rolls for cleaner cuts, ensuring even baking and beautiful shapes.
Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on your rolls while baking. They should be just golden on top, with a soft texture in the center.

With these tips, you’re on your way to mastering delicious cinnamon rolls that will be the star of your holiday breakfast!

Cinnamon Rolls Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to mix things up and make these cinnamon rolls truly yours with a few delightful twists!

Dairy-Free: Swap milk with almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free butter substitute for a cozy alternative.
Add a nutty flavor that complements the cinnamon beautifully. Your rolls will still be soft, light, and comforting!
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to create a deliciously soft dough that everyone can enjoy.
These rolls will be just as gooey and satisfying, so no one will miss the gluten!
Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for an extra layer of crunch and flavor.
The added texture will make each bite a delicious surprise, elevating your holiday treat!
Spiced Twist: Mix in a teaspoon of nutmeg or cardamom with the cinnamon for a warm, aromatic flavor variation.
This subtle change can transport you to a festive paradise, making your rolls even more enticing.
Fruit-Fusion: Add dried cranberries or raisins to the filling for a sweet and tart contrast that dances on your palate.
These fruity bites will brighten your rolls, making them perfect for holiday gatherings.
Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top instead of caramel for a rich and decadent touch.
The combination of cinnamon and chocolate creates an irresistible fusion that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Maple Glaze: Replace caramel sauce with creamy maple syrup for a cozy breakfast feeling that pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
This version will serenade your taste buds with a sweet, natural flavor that feels like a warm hug.
Savory Twist: Create a savory version by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique spin on the classic flavor.
This unexpected take offers a delightful contrast to the sweetness, making for a memorable addition to your holiday spread.

Storage Tips for Cinnamon Rolls

Room Temperature: Store freshly baked cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft texture.

Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate the rolls in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Just remember to warm them slightly before serving to reclaim that gooey goodness!

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze unbaked or baked cinnamon rolls for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.

Reheating: To reheat, wrap the rolls in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes for a freshly baked taste again.

What to Serve with Cinnamon Rolls?

To create a delightful holiday brunch, consider these delectable pairings that will complement the sweet softness of cinnamon rolls beautifully.

Hot Coffee: The rich, bitter taste of coffee balances the sweetness of cinnamon rolls, making for a perfect sip along with each gooey bite.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits like berries and citrus add a refreshing contrast to the rolls’ richness, bringing a burst of color to your table.
Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy eggs provide a savory component that nicely offsets the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls, making your breakfast feel complete.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider evokes cozy holiday vibes and complements the cinnamon flavor in your rolls, delighting both the palate and the spirit.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: For those who enjoy extra sweetness, a light drizzle of maple syrup on top enhances the roll experience, creating an indulgent treat.
Cream Cheese Frosting Dip: Serve some extra frosting on the side as a dipping option, allowing everyone to enjoy that rich creaminess with every bite!

With these delightful pairings, your holiday breakfast will be a sensational feast filled with warmth, flavors, and cherished memories!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft Christmas Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ingredients and letting it rise, then refrigerate it overnight in a greased bowl covered with plastic wrap. To finish, simply roll out the dough, fill it, and let the rolls rise for an additional 15-20 minutes before baking. If you want to prep even further ahead, consider cutting the rolls and placing them in the baking dish; you can refrigerate them overnight too. Remember, keep the dough airtight to prevent drying out, and they’ll be just as delicious when baked! Enjoy the joy of freshly baked cinnamon rolls without the morning chaos!

Soft Christmas Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right milk for the cinnamon roll dough?
Absolutely! For the best results, use whole or 2% milk that is warm but not too hot—ideally around 110°F. This temperature is perfect to activate the yeast without killing it, ensuring fluffy, rise-tastic cinnamon rolls. Just check it with your wrist; it should feel comfortably warm!

What’s the best way to store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Very! Store your freshly baked cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, place them in the fridge where they can stay fresh for up to 5 days. Be sure to warm them slightly before enjoying for that soft, gooey texture!

Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! You can freeze both baked and unbaked cinnamon rolls for up to 3 months. For unbaked rolls, after you’ve cut them, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, let them rise at room temperature until doubled in size before baking.

What should I do if my cinnamon roll dough isn’t rising?
Oh no! If your dough doesn’t rise, it may be because the yeast was inactive. First, check the freshness of your yeast; expired yeast won’t work. If you suspect the dough is in a cold environment, try placing it in a warm spot, like an oven with just the light on. Give it more time to rise, as sometimes dough needs a little extra love!

Are these cinnamon rolls suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If any family members have allergies, you can customize the ingredients. For example, use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option or substitute the cream cheese in the frosting with coconut yogurt for a dairy-free alternative. Always make sure to double-check labels for any allergy concerns, especially with pre-packaged items!

Soft Cinnamon Rolls: Your New Favorite Holiday Morning Treat

These cinnamon rolls are fluffy and filled with gooey goodness, making them the ultimate holiday breakfast treat.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 10

Cook Time 30

Rising Time 20

Total Time 2

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Servings 12 rolls

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

- Baking dish
Mixing bowl
Rolling Pin
- Sharp knife
Whisk
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
dental floss

Ingredients

For the Dough

1 cup Warm Milk (110°F) Activates yeast for proper rise
2.25 tsp Active Dry Yeast Leavening agent for fluffy texture
1/2 cup Brown Sugar Packed for filling
1 tbsp Brown Sugar For dough
4 cups All-Purpose Flour Provides structure
6 tbsp Salted Butter Melted for dough
6 tbsp Salted Butter Softened for filling
1/2 tsp Vanilla Bean Powder Enhances flavor
3 large Eggs Room temperature

For the Filling

1/4 cup Sugar For filling
1 tbsp Cinnamon Freshly ground preferred

For the Frosting

4 oz Cream Cheese Room temperature
3 cups Powdered Sugar Sifted
1/3 cup Caramel Sauce Ghirardelli preferred
Flaky Sea Salt Optional

Instructions

Preparation

Combine warm milk, yeast, and brown sugar in a bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Mix in melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and salt. Gradually add flour and knead until smooth and elastic.
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1 hour.
Prepare filling by mixing brown sugar, sugar, and cinnamon in a separate bowl.
Roll risen dough into a 12x18-inch rectangle, spread butter, sprinkle filling, and roll tightly.
Cut log into 12-15 pieces and place in a greased baking dish. Let rise for 15-20 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Make frosting by whisking melted butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, caramel, and salt until smooth.
Frost warm rolls immediately.

Notes

Store in an airtight container. Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Keyword baked goods, Cinnamon Rolls, easy breakfast, Festive Treat, holiday recipe, Make-Ahead