Roll With It: The Ultimate Cinnamon Roll Recipe

Written By Courtney Scherer

If you’re anything like me, the smell of cinnamon rolls baking feels like home. These fluffy, golden swirls of sweetness are more than breakfast — they’re a moment of pure comfort. And the best part? You don’t need to be a pastry chef to make them. You just need a little patience, a warm kitchen, and a “roll with it” attitude.

The Dough


Start with the base — this is where all that soft, pillowy goodness comes from.


Step 1: The Starter Batter
In a large bowl, mix together:

  • 3 cups of flour

  • 1 tablespoon of yeast

  • 2–3 tablespoons of honey

  • 2 cups of warm water


Mix until it looks like pancake batter — smooth, thick, and pourable. Cover it and let it rise for about 2 hours. This step builds that yeasty flavor and gives your rolls the best texture.


Step 2: The Dough
After your batter has bubbled up, stir in:

  • 4 more cups of flour

  • 1 tablespoon of yeast

  • 1 teaspoon of salt

  • 1/3 cup of honey


Mix everything until a sticky dough forms. Don’t panic — sticky is good. Just roll with it. Dust your hands with flour if needed, form the dough into a ball, and let it rise again for another 2 hours.

The Filling


Here’s where the magic happens. Generously spread softened butter all over your rolled-out dough, then cover it with a blend of brown sugar and cinnamon — and don’t be shy. This is not the time for restraint. The more filling, the gooier the rolls.


Roll the dough up tightly, slice into thick swirls, and place them in a greased pan.

Bake


Bake at 375°F until golden brown — about 25–30 minutes, depending on your oven. Your kitchen will smell like heaven.

Frosting (The Sweet Finish)


While the rolls are still warm (not hot!), slather them with this dreamy frosting:

  • 1 stick of butter

  • 8 oz cream cheese

  • A splash of vanilla

  • A few scoops of powdered sugar (until smooth and sweet)


Let the frosting melt into every swirl and soak up that cinnamon goodness.

Final Thoughts


These rolls are pure joy — soft, buttery, sticky perfection. So when life gets messy or your dough feels a little too sticky, just remember: sometimes the best things happen when you simply roll with it.

Courtney Scherer
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