Ingredients

For the Dough:3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast

½ teaspoon salt

¾ cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)

¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

1 large egg

For the Cinnamon Filling:½ cup unsalted butter, softened

¾ cup brown sugar

1 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Caramel Glaze:½ cup unsalted butter

¾ cup brown sugar

¼ cup heavy cream

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

Instructions

Make the DoughActivate the Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

Mix Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add melted butter, egg, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.

Knead & Rise: Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the FillingMake Cinnamon Filling: Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon into a spreadable paste.

Assemble & BakeRoll Out Dough: Punch down the risen dough and roll into a 12×16-inch rectangle. Spread cinnamon filling evenly.

Roll & Cut: Roll tightly from the long side and cut into 12 equal rolls. Place in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes.

Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.

Make the Caramel GlazeMelt Butter & Sugar: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and brown sugar, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes.

Add Cream & Vanilla: Stir in heavy cream, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until smooth.

Glaze & ServeGlaze Rolls: Pour warm caramel glaze over the cinnamon rolls while they’re still warm.

Enjoy: Let sit for a few minutes to soak in the caramel, then dig in!

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Rolls

Make Ahead – Prepare the rolls the night before and refrigerate. Let them come to room temp before baking.

Extra Gooey – Pour half the caramel glaze into the pan before baking for caramel-bottomed rolls.

Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle chopped pecans into the caramel for a praline-style topping.

Nutritional Value (Per Roll, Approximate)

Calories: ~350-400 kcal

Carbs: ~50g

Sugar: ~25g

Fat: ~15g

Protein: ~5g