If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to the irresistible aroma of freshly baked treats that taste like a hug in every bite, then you absolutely must try this Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. This recipe combines the classic, soft, and fluffy cinnamon rolls swirled with just the right amount of spiced sweetness, topped off with a luscious, velvety cream cheese frosting kissed with a hint of pure maple goodness. Every bite melts in your mouth, delivering the perfect balance of comforting warmth and a subtle touch of natural sweetness. This recipe has quickly become one of my favorite weekend rituals, guaranteed to make your mornings extra special and your coffee tastes even better.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Trust me when I say that the magic of great cinnamon rolls starts with the right ingredients. These basics not only ensure a tender, pillowy dough but also develop the rich flavors that make this recipe unforgettable. Each item plays a vital role—whether it’s the creamy butter bringing softness, the cinnamon for that iconic warming spice, or the maple extract that truly elevates the frosting to a whole new level of deliciousness.
- Whole milk (2 cups): The base for your dough that adds moisture and richness for a soft crumb.
- Salted butter (½ cup + ½ cup softened for filling + ½ cup softened for frosting): Provides creaminess, flavor, and the essential fat that keeps these rolls tender and dreamy.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup): Balances the savory elements and feeds the yeast to help your dough rise perfectly.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the sweet notes.
- Instant yeast (¾ tablespoon): The magic starter that makes your dough rise beautiful and fluffy.
- Large eggs (2, beaten): Adds protein for structure and richness to the dough.
- All-purpose flour (6 cups): The backbone of the dough, providing texture and structure.
- Light brown sugar (1 cup for filling + 2 tablespoons for frosting): Adds deep molasses notes and sweetness both in the filling and frosting.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon): The signature spice that gives cinnamon rolls their iconic flavor.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Creates a smooth and tangy base in the frosting, enhancing that luscious texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds complexity and rounds out the flavors beautifully in the frosting.
- Maple extract (1 teaspoon): The secret ingredient that transforms your frosting into a maple-kissed delight.
- Powdered sugar (3 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting for a perfectly creamy finish.
- Milk (as needed): Adjusts the frosting to your desired consistency—smooth and spreadable.
How to Make Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Heat the milk in a saucepan just until scalded—this means you’ll see tiny bubbles forming around the edges and the milk will be steaming but not boiling. This warmth helps activate the yeast without killing it. Transfer this milk to a mixing bowl, then add butter, sugar, and salt. Using your dough hook attachment, combine these ingredients and let the mixture cool down to about 105°F to protect the yeast.
Step 2: Activate the Yeast and Combine Ingredients
Once your milk mixture is warm, sprinkle in the instant yeast and add the beaten eggs. Continue mixing gently, then gradually incorporate your flour until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl, soft but slightly sticky. Knead with your stand mixer or by hand for about five minutes until the dough develops elasticity. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size—that’s your dough getting ready to become fluffy rolls.
Step 3: Roll and Fill the Dough
Once risen, gently punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large 18 by 12-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface and then sprinkle the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture right on top. This filling is where that classic cinnamon roll flavor comes alive, so be generous and even with your spread.
Step 4: Shaping the Rolls
Starting from the longer edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seam closed so it doesn’t unravel later. Then, with a sharp knife, cut the roll into 12 equal slices. Placing them evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet ensures each one has space to rise and bake beautifully.
Step 5: The Second Rise and Bake
Cover your rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise again until barely doubled—this step lends the light, airy texture that makes these rolls exceptional. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F. Once risen, bake the cinnamon rolls for about 20 to 22 minutes until golden on top. Let them cool for at least 30 minutes before frosting, ensuring the frosting doesn’t melt into just a puddle.
Step 6: Make the Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
In a large mixing bowl or your stand mixer, beat together softened cream cheese, softened butter, brown sugar, powdered sugar, vanilla, and maple extract until silky smooth. Add milk a little at a time until the frosting reaches the perfect spreadable consistency. Spread generously over your cinnamon rolls, watching the frosting melt slightly and settle into every gorgeous swirl.
How to Serve Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
For a little something extra, sprinkle the top with chopped toasted pecans or walnuts. The crunch pairs beautifully with the soft rolls and sweet frosting, adding texture and a nutty depth that’s delightful. Fresh fruit slices, like strawberries or thin apple slices, can also lend a fresh pop of color and slight tartness to balance the sweet rolls.
Side Dishes
Cinnamon rolls shine best alongside a bold cup of coffee or a creamy latte—milk or non-dairy options both work great. For a heartier brunch, serve with scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad to add some freshness and soak up all those decadent flavors. A glass of cold milk or warm chai tea also complements the spiced sweetness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your rolls warm in a rustic wooden or ceramic dish lined with a linen napkin for that cozy, inviting vibe. For gatherings, arrange them on a tiered platter so guests can help themselves, turning breakfast into a festive affair. You can also drizzle extra maple syrup on top or add a pinch of flaky sea salt over the frosting for a gourmet touch that will wow everyone.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any cinnamon rolls left (which is rare), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep them soft and fresh. Avoid refrigerating if possible, as this can dry out the dough and diminish that freshly baked texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap individual rolls tightly with plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen, they maintain their flavor and texture for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.
Reheating
Warm your cinnamon rolls gently in the oven at 300°F for 10-12 minutes for that freshly baked feel. If you prefer a quicker option, a few seconds in the microwave wrapped with a damp paper towel works to rehydrate and soften them nicely. Add a little extra frosting if you want to revive that creamy, irresistible top layer.
FAQs
Can I use 2% milk instead of whole milk in this recipe?
Absolutely! While whole milk adds extra richness, 2% milk works perfectly fine and still gives you soft and tender rolls. The difference is subtle, so feel free to use whatever you have on hand.
How important is the temperature of the milk when adding yeast?
The temperature is crucial because if the milk is too hot, it can kill the yeast, stopping the dough from rising properly. Aim for around 105°F—warm enough to activate the yeast but not so hot that it harms it.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! For convenience, you can prepare the dough and let it rise slowly overnight in the fridge. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out, then continue with the recipe as usual.
What if I don’t have maple extract—can I substitute it?
If you don’t have maple extract, vanilla extract alone works just fine, though the signature maple flavor will be missing. You can also drizzle a bit of pure maple syrup into the frosting for some extra natural sweetness.
Can I use a bread machine to make the dough?
Definitely! Most bread machines have a dough cycle that can handle this recipe. Just add the ingredients in the order your machine recommends, and let it mix and rise. Then proceed with rolling and baking as directed.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is the kind of treat that turns a simple morning into a cozy celebration. Homemade, rich, and full of heartwarming flavors, it’s perfect for leisurely weekends, special occasions, or whenever your sweet tooth calls. I encourage you to gather your ingredients, warm up your kitchen, and give these cinnamon rolls a try—you’ll find that the hands-on process is just as delightful as the final result. Because honestly, nothing beats sharing fresh, gooey cinnamon rolls slathered in maple cream cheese frosting with the people you love.
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Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 22 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Delight in these homemade cinnamon rolls featuring a soft, fluffy dough swirled with a sweet cinnamon-brown sugar filling, baked to golden perfection and topped with a luscious maple cream cheese frosting. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or special brunch treat.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cups whole milk (2% milk also works)
- ½ cup salted butter
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¾ tablespoon instant yeast
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 6 cups all-purpose flour
Filling
- ½ cup salted butter (softened)
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup salted butter (softened)
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon high-quality maple extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- Milk (as needed, for consistency)
Instructions
- Heat Milk: Heat the milk in a saucepan until it is scalded—small bubbles should appear around the pan’s edges and steam will rise, but it should not boil.
- Mix Dough Ingredients: Pour the scalded milk into the bowl of a stand mixer. Add the butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Using the dough hook, mix until combined. Let the mixture cool until warm, about 105°F, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Activate Yeast and Add Eggs: Add the instant yeast and beaten eggs to the warm milk mixture and mix to combine. Gradually add the flour while mixing until the dough pulls away from the bowl sides, forming a soft but slightly sticky dough.
- Knead Dough and Rise: Knead the dough for 5 minutes with the dough hook. Transfer to a large greased bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled in size.
- Prepare Dough for Filling: Punch down the risen dough and place it on a floured surface. Roll it out into an 18 by 12-inch rectangle.
- Prepare Filling: Evenly spread softened butter over the dough rectangle. Combine brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the buttered dough.
- Roll and Cut: Starting from the longer side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
- Arrange and Proof Rolls: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place rolls 3 across and 4 down on the sheet. Cover with a kitchen towel and let rise until doubled in size.
- Preheat Oven: While the rolls are rising, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake Rolls: Bake the risen rolls for 20 to 22 minutes until golden brown on top. Remove carefully from oven and let cool at least 30 minutes before frosting.
- Make Frosting: Combine cream cheese, softened butter, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, maple extract, and powdered sugar in a bowl or stand mixer. Beat until smooth and creamy. Add milk as needed to achieve desired consistency.
- Frost and Serve: Spread the maple cream cheese frosting generously over the cooled cinnamon rolls. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure the milk is not too hot when adding yeast to prevent killing it; target temperature is about 105°F.
- Do not skip the second rise after shaping the rolls; it helps achieve fluffy texture.
- Allow rolls to cool before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.
- Maple extract is key for authentic maple flavor in the frosting; use a high-quality brand for best results.
- Use parchment paper on baking sheet for easy removal and cleanup.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
