Cinnamon Rolls with Icing: 5 Mistakes You Should Avoid
Introduction
There’s something irresistibly comforting about a warm, gooey cinnamon roll fresh out of the oven, drizzled with silky icing that melts into every swirl. Soft, fluffy, sweet, and rich with cinnamon sugar—cinnamon rolls with icing are the kind of treat that make mornings feel like holidays and weekends worth celebrating.
Did you know cinnamon rolls actually date back to Sweden, where they’re called kanelbullar and are celebrated annually on Cinnamon Roll Day? That’s right—this delicious pastry has its own day! While traditional versions may be less sweet and icing-free, we’re all about that creamy, melt-in-your-mouth frosting on top that turns this classic into a real showstopper.
These cinnamon rolls are not just easy to make at home—they’re also budget-friendly, freezer-friendly, and 100% family-approved. Kids love them, adults devour them, and they make a thoughtful gift when you want to spread a little joy.
If you’ve tried our Buttery Garlic Knots (another popular recipe here on the blog), then you’ll love the way this recipe blends cozy indulgence with no-fuss steps. Cinnamon rolls with icing might just become your new breakfast (or dessert!) obsession. Let’s roll right in—pun intended! cinnamon rolls with icing
What Are Cinnamon Rolls with Icing?
Let’s be honest—what’s in a name? In this case: swirls of heaven. Cinnamon rolls with icing are exactly what they sound like—sweet rolls filled with cinnamon sugar, baked until golden, and topped with rich, creamy icing. Sounds simple? It is. Sounds amazing? It really is.
Why are they called “rolls”? Well, because you roll out the dough, sprinkle it with cinnamon-sugar goodness, and roll it up into spirals of joy. Simple enough, right?
And the icing? That’s the magic. It’s like the cherry on top… except it’s a luscious, creamy glaze that makes everything better.
As they say, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Or in this case, through a pan of warm cinnamon rolls with icing. Don’t just take our word for it—give it a try and see for yourself!
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Rolls with Icing Recipe:
1. Soft, Fluffy, and Swirled to Perfection
The highlight of this dish is the pillowy-soft dough that bakes into a golden cloud, swirled with just the right amount of cinnamon and brown sugar. The cream cheese icing adds a silky layer of richness that melts right in. Every bite is indulgent, cozy, and pure comfort food.
2. Save Money—Skip the Bakery!
Who says you need to splurge at your local café or bakery? Making cinnamon rolls with icing at home not only costs less, but you also get a whole tray of them—perfect for sharing, gifting, or (let’s be honest) keeping to yourself.
3. The Toppings Make It Special
What sets this recipe apart is the icing. Our version is a creamy, vanilla-kissed glaze made with real butter and cream cheese—none of that powdered sugar + water business here. Want to try something new? Swap in maple extract or even a dash of espresso powder for a fun twist.
Love this? Try our Sticky Toffee Monkey Bread for another ooey-gooey treat that’s just as irresistible.
👉 Ready to roll? Grab that apron and let’s bake!
How to Make Cinnamon Rolls with Icing
Quick Overview
This recipe is simple, quick, and ridiculously delicious. The dough is beginner-friendly and requires just one rise. The filling is a basic blend of cinnamon, butter, and brown sugar, and the icing? That’s where the magic happens. All in all, from start to finish, you’ll have fresh, warm cinnamon rolls in under 2 hours!
Key Ingredients for Cinnamon Rolls with Icing:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
| All-purpose flour | 3 ½ cups (440g) | Spoon & level, don’t pack |
| Warm milk | 1 cup (240ml) | Around 110°F for yeast activation |
| Granulated sugar | ¼ cup (50g) | Sweetens the dough |
| Instant yeast | 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) | Fast-acting |
| Salt | ½ tsp | Balances the flavor |
| Unsalted butter | ¼ cup (60g) | Softened |
| Egg | 1 large | Room temperature |
Filling:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
| Brown sugar | ¾ cup (150g) | Light or dark |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 tbsp | Adjust to taste |
| Unsalted butter | ⅓ cup (75g) | Softened for easy spreading |
Icing:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
| Cream cheese | 4 oz (115g) | Softened |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup (120g) | Sifted for smooth texture |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tbsp (30g) | Softened |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Adds richness |
| Milk | 2–3 tbsp | To desired consistency |
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add softened butter, egg, salt, and flour. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 6–8 minutes until smooth.
- Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.
2. Prepare the Filling
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle (about 14×9 inches).
- Spread softened butter evenly, then sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mix.
3. Roll and Slice
- Roll the dough tightly from the long edge.
- Slice into 12 equal rolls. Place in a greased 9×13 baking dish.
4. Second Rise and Bake
- Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 22–25 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. Make the Icing
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk.
- Spread over warm rolls. Let it melt into the swirls—yum!
What to Serve Cinnamon Rolls with Icing With:
Looking to complete your breakfast spread? Here are some delightful pairings:
- Fresh fruit salad – Lightens up the sweetness.
- Scrambled eggs or quiche – Add some savory balance.
- Iced coffee or chai latte – Perfect for dunking or sipping alongside.
Hosting brunch? Add our Mini Ham and Cheese Muffins to the table for a sweet-and-savory feast.
Top Tips for Perfecting Cinnamon Rolls with Icing:
- Don’t Overheat the Milk: Too hot, and you’ll kill the yeast. Aim for lukewarm (around 110°F).
- Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: Helps everything mix evenly.
- Roll Tight but Not Too Tight: You want the swirls to hold, but give them room to expand.
- Avoid Overbaking: Rolls should be just lightly golden. Overbaking dries them out.
- Ice While Warm: So the icing melts slightly into all the delicious crevices.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
These cinnamon rolls with icing store beautifully! Here’s how to keep them fresh:
Storing:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 5 days (recommended if they have cream cheese icing).
- Freezing: Wrap un-iced rolls in plastic and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- Microwave: 15–20 seconds per roll to soften and warm.
- Oven: Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 8–10 minutes covered with foil.
- From Frozen: Thaw overnight in the fridge. Warm and ice before serving.
Final Thoughts:
There you have it—the ultimate guide to making irresistible cinnamon rolls with icing, plus the 5 key mistakes to avoid. This recipe is everything you want in a sweet breakfast bake: easy, impressive, and totally crowd-pleasing.