The BEST Cinnamon Rolls Ever

The BEST Cinnamon Rolls Ever is a medium American recipe that serves 12. 280 calories per serving. Recipe by Everything Just Baked on YouTube.

Prep: 2 hrs 35 min | Cook: 30 min | Total: 3 hrs 25 min

Cost: $6.01 total, $0.50 per serving

Ingredients

  • 6 cups All-Purpose Flour (sifted)
  • 1.5 teaspoons Salt
  • 2.25 teaspoons Quick Rise Yeast (equivalent to one packet)
  • 0.33 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1 cup Whole Milk
  • 0.5 cup Buttermilk
  • 6 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted)
  • 2 Eggs (large)
  • 1 Egg Yolk (extra yolk for richness)
  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
  • 1 stick Unsalted Butter (softened for filling)
  • 1 cup Brown Sugar (packed tightly)
  • 2 tablespoons Ground Cinnamon
  • 0.25 teaspoon Sesame Oil (toasted, adds nutty depth)
  • 2 tablespoons Heavy Cream (drizzled over baked rolls for extra gooeyness)

Instructions

  1. Warm Milk and Buttermilk

    Combine the milk and buttermilk in a microwave‑safe container and heat for 30‑45 seconds until the mixture reaches about 110°F (43°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, test with your wrist – it should feel warm, not hot.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: 110°F

  2. Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, quick‑rise yeast, and granulated sugar until evenly distributed.

    Time: PT3M

  3. Add Wet Ingredients

    Create a well in the dry mixture and pour in the warmed milk mixture, melted butter, two whole eggs, the extra yolk, and vanilla extract. Stir with a spoon or whisk until a shaggy dough forms.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Knead the Dough

    Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8‑10 minutes, using the heel of your hand to push, fold, and turn. The dough should become smooth, slightly tacky, and spring back when pressed.

    Time: PT10M

  5. First Rise

    Grease a clean bowl, place the dough inside, flip to coat, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1‑1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

    Time: PT1H30M

  6. Prepare the Filling

    In a medium bowl, cream the softened butter with the packed brown sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and the toasted sesame oil until a thick paste forms.

    Time: PT5M

  7. Shape the Dough

    Punch down the risen dough, turn it onto the work surface, and roll it into an 18‑by‑12‑inch rectangle.

    Time: PT10M

  8. Add Filling

    Spread the cinnamon‑brown‑sugar paste evenly over the rolled‑out dough, leaving a small border. For extra sweetness, sprinkle a little additional brown sugar and cinnamon on top.

    Time: PT5M

  9. Roll and Cut

    Starting from the short edge farthest from you, roll the dough tightly like a typewriter. Pinch the seam to seal, then use a sharp knife (or kitchen floss) to cut the roll into 12 equal pieces.

    Time: PT5M

  10. Second Rise

    Grease the baking pan, arrange the rolls close together (they should almost touch), cover loosely, and let rise for another 30 minutes.

    Time: PT30M

  11. Preheat Oven

    While the rolls are doing their second rise, preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: 325°F

  12. Bake

    Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.

    Time: PT30M

    Temperature: 325°F

  13. Finish with Cream

    Immediately after removing from the oven, drizzle the heavy cream over the hot rolls to keep them extra gooey and soft.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
280
Protein
4g
Carbohydrates
38g
Fat
12g
Fiber
1g

Dietary info: Vegetarian

Allergens: Wheat, Eggs, Dairy, Sesame

Last updated: April 17, 2026

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The BEST Cinnamon Rolls Ever

Recipe by Everything Just Baked

A step‑by‑step guide to making soft, gooey cinnamon rolls from scratch using quick‑rise yeast. No Pillsbury cans needed – just flour, butter, a touch of sesame oil, and a simple vanilla‑cinnamon filling. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.

MediumAmericanServes 12

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
2h 57m
Prep
30m
Cook
25m
Cleanup
3h 52m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$6.01
Total cost
$0.50
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Warming the milk mixture to the correct 110°F temperature
  • Kneading the dough until smooth and slightly tacky
  • First rise until the dough doubles in size
  • Rolling the dough tightly and sealing the seam
  • Second rise before baking
  • Baking at the precise 325°F temperature for 30 minutes

Safety Warnings

  • Milk and buttermilk are heated; handle with care to avoid burns.
  • Use oven mitts when handling the hot baking pan.
  • Sharp knife or floss can cause cuts; slice away from your body.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of cinnamon rolls in American breakfast cuisine?

A

Cinnamon rolls originated from Swedish kanelbullar, which immigrants brought to the United States in the 19th century. Over time they became a beloved breakfast pastry across America, often enjoyed with coffee or as a sweet treat at brunch.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of cinnamon rolls in the United States?

A

In the Midwest, especially Minnesota, cinnamon rolls are often topped with a cream cheese frosting. In the South, they may be baked in a skillet and served with a buttery glaze. The recipe here reflects a classic, soft‑rolled version without frosting.

cultural
Q

How is cinnamon roll traditionally served in American homes and bakeries?

A

Cinnamon rolls are typically served warm, either plain or drizzled with a glaze or cream cheese icing. They are often paired with coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk for a comforting breakfast or snack.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations are cinnamon rolls associated with in American culture?

A

Cinnamon rolls are popular for weekend brunches, holiday breakfasts, and family gatherings. They’re also a staple at bake‑sales and coffee‑shop menus throughout the year.

cultural
Q

How does the cinnamon roll fit into the broader American pastry tradition?

A

Cinnamon rolls belong to the sweet yeast‑based pastry family, alongside donuts and sticky buns. Their soft, buttery texture and spiced filling showcase the American love for comforting, indulgent baked goods.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for cinnamon rolls versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Traditional ingredients include all‑purpose flour, butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, yeast, and milk. Acceptable substitutes are whole‑wheat flour for a heartier dough, coconut sugar for a deeper flavor, or almond milk for a dairy‑free version, though texture may vary.

cultural
Q

What other American dishes pair well with cinnamon rolls for a brunch spread?

A

Cinnamon rolls pair nicely with scrambled eggs, bacon or sausage, fresh fruit salad, and a hot cup of coffee or orange juice, creating a balanced sweet‑savory brunch.

cultural
Q

What makes this cinnamon roll recipe special or unique in American cuisine?

A

The addition of a tiny amount of toasted sesame oil adds a subtle nutty note that elevates the classic flavor profile, while the heavy‑cream drizzle keeps the rolls extra gooey and rich.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making cinnamon rolls at home?

A

Common mistakes include using milk that’s too hot (killing the yeast), under‑kneading the dough (resulting in dense rolls), and not sealing the roll tightly (causing the filling to leak). Follow the critical steps for best results.

technical
Q

Why does this cinnamon roll recipe use quick‑rise yeast instead of active dry yeast?

A

Quick‑rise yeast shortens the fermentation time, allowing the dough to double in about an hour, which fits the fast‑track approach of the video while still delivering a fluffy texture.

technical
Q

Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time and how should I store them?

A

Yes, you can prepare the dough, let it rise, shape the rolls, and refrigerate them overnight before the second rise and bake. Store baked rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Everything Just Baked specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Everything Just Baked specializes in home‑baked sweet treats, focusing on approachable, step‑by‑step tutorials for pastries, breads, and desserts that can be made with everyday kitchen tools.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Everything Just Baked's approach to American pastry cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Everything Just Baked emphasizes simplicity and speed, using shortcuts like quick‑rise yeast and minimal equipment while still teaching classic techniques, whereas many channels focus on elaborate methods or professional‑grade equipment.

channel

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