There’s a little unspoken rule in my house—if you wake up before 7 a.m. on a Saturday, you better have a good reason. My kids? Their reason is cartoons. My husband? Coffee. Me? Cinnamon rolls.
It all started on a chilly Saturday morning when I woke up craving something sweet, warm, and downright comforting. The problem? It was way too early to spend hours proofing dough, and there was no way I was heading out in my pajamas to grab some from the bakery. So, I did what any determined, cinnamon-loving mom would do—I got creative.
I took a deep dive into my pantry, pulling out ingredients that could mimic the pillowy softness of traditional cinnamon rolls without all the waiting. A little baking powder here, some melted butter there, and suddenly, magic happened. The first batch was an instant hit—gooey, warm, and so dangerously easy to make that I’ve been whipping up these quick cinnamon rolls ever since.
And let me tell you, nothing beats the smell of fresh cinnamon rolls baking while the coffee brews. These easy homemade cinnamon rolls are perfect for those mornings when patience is short, but cravings are high. So, if you love the idea of soft, fluffy homemade cinnamon rolls in under 30 minutes, trust me—this recipe is about to be your new best friend.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
1. No Yeast, No Problem
Traditional cinnamon rolls take hours because of yeast and proofing. This recipe skips all that fuss while still delivering the soft, buttery texture you crave.
2. Ready in 30 Minutes
Mornings can be chaotic, but this quick cinnamon rolls recipe fits into even the busiest schedule. You can go from mixing to eating in just half an hour.
3. Fluffy and Soft Every Time
Even without yeast, these rolls rise beautifully, thanks to a few secret tricks (hint: baking powder and a little love). If you’re looking for a soft cinnamon rolls recipe that doesn’t require kneading for days, this is it.
4. Perfect for Small Batches
Unlike traditional recipes that make trays of cinnamon rolls, this small batch cinnamon rolls recipe is just enough for a cozy morning treat without leftovers tempting you all day.
5. Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor
You probably already have everything you need in your kitchen. No fancy ingredients, just simple pantry staples.
6. Customizable to Your Heart’s Desire
Add nuts, raisins, or even a drizzle of maple syrup—this recipe is as flexible as your cravings.
7. Kid and Husband Approved
Even the pickiest eaters won’t say no to these warm, gooey cinnamon buns. Trust me, my family has tested (and devoured) these enough times.
8. Perfectly Gooey Cinnamon Filling
Because what’s a cinnamon roll without that delicious, sticky filling? The cinnamon-sugar-butter combo melts into perfection, giving you that bakery-style experience at home.
Ingredients for the Quick Cinnamon Roll Recipe
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
For the Icing:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Equipments Needed:
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- 8-inch baking dish
- Pastry brush
- Sharp knife or dough cutter
Cooking Instructions for the Quick Cinnamon Roll Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract, stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle in a little extra flour.
Step 2: Roll It Out
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and roll it into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick.
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Filling
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough.
Step 4: Roll and Cut
Carefully roll the dough into a log, starting from the long side. Slice it into 6-8 equal rolls and place them in a greased 8-inch baking dish.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 18-20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the cinnamon filling is bubbling.
Step 6: Make the Icing
While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create a smooth icing.
Step 7: Glaze and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, drizzle the icing over the warm rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy every gooey bite!
Notes
1. Don’t Overwork the Dough
Mix until just combined. Overmixing will make your cinnamon rolls dense instead of fluffy.
2. Spice it Up
Want an extra kick? Add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cardamom to the filling for a more complex flavor.
3. Make It Extra Gooey
For ultra-gooey rolls, add an extra tablespoon of butter to the filling or a drizzle of heavy cream before baking.
4. Shortcut for Even Faster Rolls
No time to roll and slice? Make “cinnamon roll bites” by cutting the dough into pieces, tossing them in cinnamon sugar, and baking them in a muffin tin.
5. Storage Tips
Leftovers? (Unlikely, but just in case.) Store them in an airtight container and reheat in the microwave for 10 seconds.
6. Swap the Frosting
Not a fan of classic icing? Try a cream cheese glaze by mixing cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract.
Macronutrient Count Per Serving
- Calories: 280
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Sugar: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 210mg
Pro Tips for the Recipe
1. Keep the Dough Soft
Avoid adding too much flour when rolling out the dough. A slightly sticky dough will result in softer rolls.
2. Evenly Spread the Filling
Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure the cinnamon-sugar filling is spread evenly for a consistent flavor in every bite.
3. Slice with Precision
Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the rolls cleanly without squishing the dough.
4. Warm Icing is the Best Icing
Drizzle the icing while the rolls are still warm so it melts into all the crevices, making them extra gooey.
5. Make-Ahead Hack
Prepare the rolls the night before, cover them, and store them in the fridge. Bake fresh in the morning for an effortless treat.
6. Customize Your Filling
Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or even a sprinkle of orange zest for a unique twist.
The Cinnamon Roll Chronicles: Your Burning Questions Answered
1. What Can I Serve With These Cinnamon Rolls?
Pair them with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or a fresh fruit salad for a balanced breakfast.
2. Can I Make These Rolls Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can roll and slice the dough the night before, refrigerate them, and bake fresh in the morning.
3. How Can I Make These Even More Gooey?
Pour a tablespoon of heavy cream over the rolls before baking to make them extra soft and gooey.
4. What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days. Warm them up in the microwave before serving.
5. Can I Use a Different Type of Flour?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier version, but they will be slightly denser.
6. How Can I Make These Vegan?
Swap out the butter for vegan butter and use almond or oat milk in place of regular milk.
