Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls

Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls: A Decadent Breakfast Delight

If you’re searching for a breakfast or brunch treat that combines the rich, velvety texture of cream cheese with the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar, look no further than Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls. These indulgent pastries are soft, fluffy, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Whether served on a lazy Sunday morning or brought to a holiday gathering, these rolls are guaranteed to impress family and friends with their irresistible aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

The History of Cinnamon Rolls and Cream Cheese

The origins of the cinnamon roll trace back to Sweden, where it is known as “kanelbulle” and celebrated annually on October 4th as Cinnamon Roll Day. Swedish immigrants brought this beloved pastry to America in the 19th century, where it evolved into the sweet, gooey treat we know today. Over time, American bakers began experimenting with fillings and frostings, leading to the now-iconic cream cheese glaze that perfectly complements the spiced cinnamon swirl.

Cream cheese itself was developed in the United States in the late 1800s, inspired by French cheese-making techniques. Its smooth, slightly tangy profile makes it an ideal partner for the sweetness of cinnamon sugar, creating a balanced flavor that elevates the entire experience. The fusion of European tradition and American innovation gave birth to the modern Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Roll — a staple in diners, bakeries, and home kitchens across the country.

Ingredients Breakdown: What Makes These Rolls Irresistible

The magic of Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls lies in the harmony of simple yet high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect texture and taste:

All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for the dough, giving it a soft yet sturdy rise.
Warm Milk: Activates the yeast and adds richness to the dough for a tender crumb.
Granulated Sugar: Feeds the yeast during proofing and contributes to the sweetness of the rolls.
Instant Yeast: Ensures a quick rise without needing to be activated beforehand.
Eggs: Add moisture, richness, and help bind the dough together.
Butter (unsalted): Incorporates flavor and tenderness; used both in the dough and the filling.
Cream Cheese: The star ingredient — adds a luxurious, creamy layer with a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
Brown Sugar: Used in the filling for its deep molasses notes and sticky texture when baked.
Ground Cinnamon: The warming spice that defines the roll’s signature flavor.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall sweetness and depth in both the dough and frosting.
Salt: Balances all the flavors and prevents the rolls from tasting flat.
Powdered Sugar: Forms the base of the luscious cream cheese glaze.

Using real butter and full-fat cream cheese ensures a rich mouthfeel and bakery-quality results. While substitutions can be made, they may alter the final texture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls

Follow this detailed guide to create bakery-worthy cinnamon rolls right in your own kitchen. Plan ahead, as the process includes rising time, but the effort is well worth the heavenly result.

Dough Preparation

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine 1 cup of warm milk (about 110°F), 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes to allow the yeast to activate (it should become frothy).
Add 2 large eggs, 1/3 cup softened unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mix on low speed until combined.
Gradually add 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, mixing on low until a soft dough forms. Increase speed to medium and knead for 5–7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
If the dough is too sticky, add 1–2 tablespoons more flour. If too dry, add a teaspoon of milk at a time.
Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Preparing the Filling

While the dough rises, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, beat together 8 oz (one block) softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup softened butter, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. Set aside.

Assembling the Rolls

Once the dough has doubled, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle approximately 16×12 inches.
Evenly spread the cream cheese-cinnamon-sugar mixture over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges to prevent leakage during baking.
Starting from the longer side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
Using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal pieces (about 1.5 inches each).
Place the rolls cut-side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving space between them to expand during the second rise.
Cover the pan with a clean towel and let the rolls rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffy.

Baking and Glazing

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through (internal temperature should reach about 190°F).
While the rolls bake, prepare the cream cheese glaze: In a bowl, beat together 4 oz softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup softened butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 cup powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Add 1–2 tablespoons of milk if needed to reach a drizzling consistency.
Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for 5–10 minutes, then drizzle generously with the glaze.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls Every Time

Use Properly Warmed Milk: Too hot and it will kill the yeast; too cold and it won’t activate. Aim for 105–110°F.
Don’t Skip the Second Rise: Allowing the shaped rolls to rise again ensures a light, airy texture.
Roll Tightly: A snug roll prevents gaps and keeps the spiral intact.
Grease the Pan Well: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Cut with Dental Floss: For clean, even slices without squishing the dough.
Let Cool Slightly Before Glazing: If the rolls are too hot, the glaze will melt and slide off.
Make Ahead Option: Assemble the rolls the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Let them come to room temperature and rise for 30–60 minutes before baking.

Variations and Customizations

These rolls are incredibly versatile. Here are some creative ways to customize them:

Fruit-Filled Rolls: Add thin apple slices, chopped raisins, or dried cranberries to the filling for a fruity twist.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling before rolling.
Chocolate Swirl: Mix mini chocolate chips into the filling or drizzle melted chocolate over the finished glaze.
Orange Zest: Add 1 teaspoon of orange zest to the dough or filling for a citrusy brightness.
Spice It Up: Include a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger in the cinnamon mixture for extra warmth.
Mini Rolls: Cut smaller pieces and bake in a muffin tin for individual-sized treats.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, dairy-free cream cheese, almond milk, and a flax egg substitute.
Gluten-Free: Substitute with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast baking.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

While undeniably delicious, Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls are a dessert-style breakfast item best enjoyed in moderation. Here’s a general nutritional estimate per serving (1 roll, including glaze):

Calories: ~350–400
Fat: 18–22g (including saturated fat from butter and cream cheese)
Carbohydrates: 45–50g (primarily from sugars and refined flour)
Protein: 6–8g
Sodium: ~300–400mg

To make a slightly healthier version:

Reduce sugar in the filling and glaze by 25%.
Use whole wheat pastry flour for part of the all-purpose flour (up to 50%).
Opt for reduced-fat cream cheese and butter (though texture may be less rich).
Serve with fresh fruit on the side to balance the meal.

Those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies should consider non-dairy alternatives. Diabetics should monitor portion sizes due to high carbohydrate and sugar content.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

1 cup warm milk (110°F)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 1/4 tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
2 large eggs
1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp salt
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

For the Filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Glaze:

4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1–2 tbsp milk (as needed)

Directions

Activate the yeast by mixing warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a stand mixer bowl. Wait 5 minutes until frothy.
Add eggs, softened butter, vanilla, and salt. Mix until blended.
Gradually add flour and knead with dough hook for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours until doubled.
While rising, beat together cream cheese, butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla for the filling.
Punch down risen dough and roll into a 16×12 inch rectangle on a floured surface.
Spread filling evenly over dough, leaving small borders.
Roll up tightly from the long side and pinch seam to seal.
Cut into 12 equal slices using a sharp knife or floss.
Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch pan, cover, and let rise 30–45 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
While baking, prepare glaze by mixing cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
Cool rolls slightly, then drizzle with glaze before serving.

FAQ

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the rolls, place them in the pan, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, let them sit at room temperature for 30–60 minutes to complete the second rise before baking.

Can I freeze Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls?
Absolutely. Bake and cool the rolls completely, then wrap individually in plastic and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven. You can also freeze unbaked rolls and bake them straight from frozen (add 5–10 minutes to baking time).

Why did my rolls turn out dense?
This could be due to expired yeast, over-flouring the dough, under-kneading, or skipping the second rise. Always check your yeast’s expiration date and measure flour accurately using the spoon-and-level method.

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant?
Yes. Use the same amount, but dissolve it in the warm milk with sugar and let it foam for 5–10 minutes before adding other ingredients.

How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?
You can, but real butter provides superior flavor and texture. Margarine may affect the richness and browning of the rolls.

Summary

Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls are a luxurious, homemade pastry combining fluffy yeast dough with a rich, spiced cream cheese filling and a silky glaze. Perfect for special occasions or weekend treats, these rolls deliver unforgettable flavor and comfort in every bite.