Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls

There are few baked treats as universally comforting and irresistible as cinnamon rolls. Soft, pillowy dough swirled with warm cinnamon sugar is already a classic, but when you add a rich, creamy center of sweetened cream cheese, the result becomes something truly special. Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls take everything we love about traditional cinnamon rolls and elevate them with an indulgent filling that melts into the dough as it bakes, creating a dessert (or breakfast!) that feels luxurious, cozy, and unforgettable.

These rolls are the kind of recipe that instantly fills your home with warmth. As they bake, the aroma of cinnamon, butter, sugar, and vanilla drifts through the kitchen, promising something comforting and deeply satisfying. Each roll bakes up golden on the outside, incredibly soft on the inside, and filled with a luscious ribbon of cream cheese that balances the sweetness of the cinnamon sugar perfectly.

What makes this recipe especially beloved is its versatility. Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls are perfect for slow weekend mornings, holiday breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or as a show-stopping dessert served warm with a drizzle of glaze. They feel indulgent without being complicated, impressive without being intimidating. Even if you’re new to baking with yeast, this recipe guides you step by step to ensure success.

Unlike store-bought rolls, homemade cinnamon rolls have a freshness and softness that can’t be replicated. The dough is tender and fluffy, the cinnamon sugar filling is fragrant and gooey, and the cream cheese center adds a creamy contrast that makes every bite feel special. These rolls are rich, comforting, and deeply nostalgic, yet elevated enough to feel like a bakery-quality treat made right in your own kitchen.

Whether you’re baking them for loved ones or simply treating yourself, Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls are the kind of recipe that creates memories. They invite people to gather, slow down, and enjoy the simple pleasure of something warm, sweet, and made with care.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with these cinnamon rolls, but a few stand out immediately. First, the texture is unbeatable. The dough is soft and fluffy, thanks to proper kneading and rising, while the filling stays creamy and rich without overpowering the cinnamon sugar swirl.

Another reason this recipe shines is the balance of flavors. Cinnamon sugar provides warmth and sweetness, while the cream cheese adds a gentle tang that keeps the rolls from being overly sweet. This balance makes them enjoyable even for those who usually find cinnamon rolls too rich.

This recipe is also incredibly flexible. You can make the rolls ahead of time and bake them fresh in the morning, making them ideal for holidays or special occasions. You can customize the sweetness, add nuts or raisins, or finish them with different glazes depending on your preference.

Finally, these rolls are pure comfort food. They’re the kind of treat that feels like a hug—soft, warm, and satisfying. Whether enjoyed with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk, they’re guaranteed to bring joy with every bite.

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Preparation and Baking Time

While these rolls do require some time for rising, the process is straightforward and well worth the wait. Most of the time is hands-off, allowing the dough to rise while you relax.

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Rising Time: 1½–2 hours (total)
• Baking Time: 25–30 minutes
• Cooling Time: 10–15 minutes
• Total Time: About 3 hours

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Ingredients

For the Dough

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Filling

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze (Optional)

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons milk or cream
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Step-by-Step

Guide to Making the Recipe

1. Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and a teaspoon of sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures your yeast is active and ready to work.

2. Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a soft dough forms.

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. The dough should be soft but not sticky.

3. First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

4. Prepare the Fillings

While the dough rises, mix the cream cheese filling by beating the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.

In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon for the cinnamon sugar filling.

5. Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 14×10 inches.

Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top. Then gently spread the cream cheese mixture over the cinnamon sugar layer.

6. Shape the Rolls

Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut into 12 even rolls.

7. Second Rise

Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each one. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes, until puffy.

8. Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

9. Glaze and Serve

Whisk together the glaze ingredients and drizzle over the warm rolls before serving.

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Flavor Variations and Creative Twists

These rolls are a fantastic base for creative variations. You can add chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy contrast, or sprinkle raisins into the cinnamon sugar layer for classic cinnamon roll flavor.

For a festive twist, add orange zest to the cream cheese filling or replace vanilla with almond extract for a subtle flavor change.

If you love extra indulgence, drizzle caramel sauce over the rolls instead of glaze. The caramel pairs beautifully with cinnamon and cream cheese.

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How to Serve

Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls are best served warm, when the filling is soft and creamy. They pair perfectly with coffee or tea and make a stunning centerpiece for brunch.

For dessert, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dusting of powdered sugar. They’re rich enough to stand on their own but versatile enough to dress up for special occasions.

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Tips & Variations

Use room-temperature ingredients for the smoothest dough and filling. Cold cream cheese can be difficult to spread evenly.

Don’t overbake. Slightly underbaked rolls stay soft and fluffy, while overbaking can dry them out.

If making ahead, assemble the rolls, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning for maximum softness and flavor.

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Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls are the ultimate comfort bake. They combine everything we love about cinnamon rolls with an extra layer of creamy indulgence that makes them unforgettable. Soft, warm, sweet, and rich, they’re the kind of recipe that turns ordinary mornings into something special.

Whether you’re baking for family, guests, or yourself, these rolls deliver warmth, joy, and satisfaction in every bite. Once you try them, they’re sure to become a favorite—requested often and remembered fondly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the rolls, refrigerate overnight, and bake fresh the next day.

Can I freeze them?
Yes. Bake and cool completely, then freeze for up to two months. Reheat gently before serving.

Can I reduce the sweetness?
You can reduce the sugar slightly in both the filling and glaze without affecting texture.

Can I use instant yeast?
Yes. You can substitute instant yeast and skip the activation step.

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