(Don’t plan for leftovers. There won’t be any!)
These One Hour Cinnamon Rolls are a game-changer for busy mornings or anytime you crave a warm, gooey treat without spending hours in the kitchen. With fluffy dough, a generous cinnamon-sugar swirl, and a rich frosting, these rolls are guaranteed to vanish fast.
Why This Recipe Works
Quick prep and bake: Ready in just one hour from start to finish.
Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples and doesn’t require special flour or rising techniques.
Versatile frosting options: Customize with cream cheese, orange concentrate, or chocolate.
Ingredients
Dough
3 ½ cups warm water
¾ cup sugar
½ cup oil
6 tbsp yeast (or 4 ½ tbsp Saf-Instant yeast)
1 tbsp salt
3 large eggs
10 ½ cups all-purpose flour
Cinnamon-Sugar Filling
¼ cup melted butter (per half of dough)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
Frosting Options
1 stick butter (½ cup)
2 dashes salt
2 tsp vanilla extract
6 cups powdered sugar
Milk (as needed for consistency)
Optional Add-Ins for Frosting:
Orange concentrate: Add for orange rolls.
Baking cocoa + water: For chocolate rolls.
Cream cheese: For cream cheese frosting.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, oil, and yeast. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes to activate the yeast.
Add salt, eggs, and flour to the yeast mixture.
Mix the dough for 10 minutes using a stand mixer with a dough hook. Allow it to rest for another 10 minutes.
Shape the Rolls
Lightly oil your work surface (do not use flour) and turn out the dough. Divide it in half.
Roll out one half into a large rectangle. Spread with ¼ cup melted butter and sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture (½ cup sugar + ½ tbsp cinnamon).
Roll the dough tightly (but not too tight) into a log.
Slice the log into 12 even rolls and arrange them on a greased cookie sheet. Repeat with the second half of the dough.
Let Rise and Bake
Allow the rolls to rise until they double in size. Rising time may vary depending on room temperature and humidity.
Bake in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Prepare the Frosting
In a medium bowl, cream together butter, salt, and vanilla.
Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. Adjust the consistency with milk as needed.
Frost and Serve
Spread the frosting over the warm cinnamon rolls.
Serve immediately and enjoy the gooey, sweet deliciousness!
Frosting Variations
Orange Rolls: Add a few tablespoons of frozen orange juice concentrate to the frosting for a citrusy twist.
Chocolate Rolls: Mix in 2 tbsp baking cocoa and a few drops of water for rich chocolate flavor.
Cream Cheese Rolls: Blend in 4 oz softened cream cheese for a tangy, creamy topping.
Pro Tips for Success
Dough consistency: The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but easy to handle.
Rising time: Adjust based on your kitchen environment. Let the rolls rise until they’re puffy and doubled in size.
Perfect swirls: Use dental floss to slice the rolls for clean, even cuts.
No freezing needed: These rolls are so quick and easy, there’s no need to prep ahead.
Timing Breakdown
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rising Time: 15–20 minutes
Baking Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour
Serving Suggestions
Pair with coffee or tea for the perfect breakfast treat.
Add fresh fruit or scrambled eggs to balance the sweetness.
Serve as a decadent dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Why You’ll Love These Rolls
These cinnamon rolls combine the fluffy texture of homemade dough with the rich, buttery taste of cinnamon-sugar filling. The frosting melts into the warm rolls, making them irresistibly gooey. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, these rolls are sure to impress!
Enjoy your One Hour Cinnamon Rolls, and don’t plan for leftovers—they’ll disappear in no time!