Quick & Easy Cinnamon Rolls: Ready in Under an Hour!

Craving warm, gooey cinnamon rolls but short on time? This recipe is your answer! Forget about lengthy rising times and complicated doughs. This quick cinnamon roll recipe delivers delicious, homemade cinnamon rolls in under an hour. Perfect for a last-minute brunch, a cozy weekend treat, or when you just need a comforting sugar rush.

## Why This Recipe Works

* **Speed:** The use of rapid-rise yeast and a simple dough-making process dramatically reduces the prep and rising time.
* **Ease:** The recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly, with clear instructions and readily available ingredients.
* **Flavor:** Despite its speed, the recipe doesn’t compromise on flavor. The cinnamon-sugar filling and creamy frosting are perfectly balanced for a delightful taste experience.
* **Adaptability:** This recipe is easily customizable to your preferences. You can add nuts, dried fruit, or different extracts to the filling or frosting.

## Ingredients

### For the Dough:

* 1 cup warm milk (about 110-115°F)
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) rapid-rise yeast
* 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 3 – 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting

### For the Filling:

* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

### For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

* 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2-3 tablespoons milk, or more to reach desired consistency

## Equipment

* Large mixing bowl
* Measuring cups and spoons
* 9×13 inch baking dish
* Rolling pin
* Sharp knife or pizza cutter
* Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)

## Instructions

### Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. **Activate the Yeast:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and rapid-rise yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.
2. **Add Wet Ingredients:** Add the melted butter and beaten egg to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
3. **Add Dry Ingredients:** Add the salt and 3 cups of flour to the wet ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. Gradually add the remaining 1/2 cup of flour, a little at a time, until the dough is no longer sticky but still soft. Be careful not to overmix. The amount of flour needed may vary depending on humidity.
4. **Knead the Dough:** Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 3-5 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for 3-5 minutes on medium speed.

### Step 2: Make the Filling

1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined. This forms the flavorful cinnamon-sugar filling.

### Step 3: Assemble the Cinnamon Rolls

1. **Roll Out the Dough:** Roll the dough into a large rectangle, approximately 12×18 inches, on a lightly floured surface.
2. **Spread the Filling:** Spread the softened cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border along one long edge.
3. **Roll Up the Dough:** Starting from the opposite long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
4. **Slice the Rolls:** Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the log into 12 equal pieces. Each piece will be a cinnamon roll.
5. **Arrange in Baking Dish:** Place the cinnamon rolls, cut-side up, in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. They should be snug but not overcrowded.

### Step 4: Bake the Cinnamon Rolls

1. **Let Rise (Optional):** For a slightly softer roll, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and let the rolls rise in a warm place for 15-20 minutes. This step is optional, but it will result in a lighter texture.
2. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. **Bake:** Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. The center rolls should be set and not doughy.
4. **Cool Slightly:** Let the cinnamon rolls cool in the baking dish for 5-10 minutes before frosting.

### Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. **Cream Butter and Cream Cheese:** In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. **Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla:** Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until incorporated. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
3. **Add Milk:** Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. It should be smooth and spreadable.

### Step 6: Frost and Serve

1. **Frost the Rolls:** Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the warm cinnamon rolls.
2. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the cinnamon rolls warm and enjoy!

## Tips for Success

* **Use Warm Milk:** The milk should be warm to the touch, but not hot. Too hot milk can kill the yeast.
* **Don’t Overmix the Dough:** Overmixing can result in tough cinnamon rolls. Mix just until the dough comes together.
* **Softened Butter is Key:** Make sure the butter for both the filling and frosting is softened but not melted. This will ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
* **Adjust Sweetness to Taste:** If you prefer a less sweet frosting, reduce the amount of powdered sugar.
* **Use a Serrated Knife or Dental Floss:** For clean slices, use a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the cinnamon roll log.
* **Warm the Frosting (Optional):** For a more glaze-like frosting, microwave it for a few seconds until slightly melted.

## Variations

* **Nutty Cinnamon Rolls:** Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon-sugar filling.
* **Raisin Cinnamon Rolls:** Add 1/2 cup of raisins or dried cranberries to the cinnamon-sugar filling.
* **Apple Cinnamon Rolls:** Add 1 cup of diced apples to the cinnamon-sugar filling. You can also add a teaspoon of apple pie spice.
* **Orange Cinnamon Rolls:** Add 1 tablespoon of orange zest to the cream cheese frosting.
* **Maple Cinnamon Rolls:** Substitute maple syrup for the vanilla extract in the cream cheese frosting and add a pinch of salt.
* **Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Rolls:** Sprinkle 1/2 cup of chocolate chips over the cinnamon-sugar filling before rolling up the dough.
* **Caramel Pecan Rolls:** After baking, drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with chopped pecans.
* **Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls:** Add 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the dough. You can also add pumpkin pie spice to the filling.

## Storage Instructions

* **Room Temperature:** Cinnamon rolls can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
* **Refrigerator:** Cinnamon rolls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
* **Freezer:** Cinnamon rolls can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap individually in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

## Reheating Instructions

* **Microwave:** Microwave a single cinnamon roll for 20-30 seconds until warm.
* **Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cinnamon rolls on a baking sheet and bake for 5-10 minutes until warm.

## Serving Suggestions

* **Breakfast/Brunch:** Serve with coffee, tea, or milk.
* **Dessert:** Enjoy as a sweet treat after dinner.
* **Special Occasions:** Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or other celebrations.
* **Potlucks/Parties:** A crowd-pleasing dessert to bring to gatherings.
* **Gifting:** Share the love by gifting a batch of homemade cinnamon rolls to friends, family, or neighbors.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate, per roll)

* Calories: 350-450
* Fat: 15-20g
* Saturated Fat: 8-12g
* Cholesterol: 50-70mg
* Sodium: 200-300mg
* Carbohydrates: 50-60g
* Sugar: 25-35g
* Protein: 4-6g

*Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on specific ingredients and serving size.*

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

**Q: Can I use active dry yeast instead of rapid-rise yeast?**

**A:** Yes, but you will need to increase the rising time. Proof the active dry yeast in warm milk with sugar for 10-15 minutes until foamy. After kneading the dough, let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size, before rolling and filling.

**Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?**

**A:** Yes, you can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. The next day, let the dough come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling and filling.

**Q: Can I freeze the unbaked cinnamon rolls?**

**A:** Yes, you can freeze the unbaked cinnamon rolls after slicing them. Place them in a baking dish lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.

**Q: Why are my cinnamon rolls dry?**

**A:** Dry cinnamon rolls can be caused by overbaking or using too much flour in the dough. Make sure to measure the flour accurately and bake the rolls until they are golden brown but still slightly soft. Adding a pan of water to the bottom rack of the oven during baking can also help to create a more moist environment.

**Q: My frosting is too thick. How can I thin it out?**

**A:** Add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.

**Q: Can I use a different type of frosting?**

**A:** Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite frosting recipe. A simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk, or a vanilla buttercream frosting, would also be delicious.

**Q: What can I do if I don’t have brown sugar?**

**A:** You can make your own brown sugar by mixing 1 cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of molasses. Mix well until the molasses is evenly distributed.

**Q: How do I prevent the filling from leaking out while baking?**

**A:** Make sure to roll the dough tightly and pinch the seam to seal it well. Also, avoid overfilling the dough with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

**Q: Can I bake these in a cast iron skillet?**

**A:** Yes! A cast iron skillet is a great option for baking cinnamon rolls. Grease the skillet well and arrange the rolls inside. The cast iron will help to create a crispy bottom crust.

**Q: My cinnamon rolls are browning too quickly. What should I do?**

**A:** If your cinnamon rolls are browning too quickly, you can tent them loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

This quick cinnamon roll recipe is a game-changer for those who want homemade goodness without the fuss. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy warm, delicious cinnamon rolls in no time! Happy baking!