I love how these cinnamon sugar cream cheese fluffy rolls turn out impossibly soft, rich, and comforting every single time. I make them when I want something that feels bakery-special but still homemade, with a tender dough, warm cinnamon filling, and a creamy balance that keeps them from being overly sweet.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy this recipe because the dough is light and pillowy while still holding a generous swirl of cinnamon sugar. I like how the cream cheese adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness perfectly. I also appreciate that these rolls stay soft for days, making them ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dessert.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the dough
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 packet instant yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
¾ cup warm milk
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
½ teaspoon salt
For the filling
½ cup softened butter
¾ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the cream cheese layer
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the glaze (optional)
½ cup powdered sugar
1–2 tablespoons milk
Directions
I start by mixing the warm milk, sugar, and yeast until combined. I add the egg, melted butter, and salt, then gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms. I knead the dough until smooth and elastic, then cover it and let it rise until doubled in size.
I roll the dough into a rectangle and spread the softened butter evenly across the surface. I mix the brown sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle it generously over the butter. In a small bowl, I blend the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla, then lightly spread it over the cinnamon layer.
I roll the dough tightly into a log and slice it into even rolls. I place them into a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise again until fluffy. I bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25–30 minutes until lightly golden.
If I want extra sweetness, I drizzle a simple glaze over the warm rolls before serving.
Servings And Timing
I usually get 12 rolls from this recipe.
Preparation time: about 25 minutes
Rising time: about 1 hour 30 minutes
Baking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for extra texture. When I want a stronger spice flavor, I add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom. For a richer finish, I replace the glaze with a thicker cream cheese frosting.
Storage/Reheating
I store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to five days. When reheating, I warm them gently in the microwave for a few seconds to keep them soft and fluffy.
FAQs
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
I often prepare the rolls the night before and refrigerate them after shaping, then bake them fresh in the morning.
Can I freeze cinnamon sugar cream cheese rolls?
I freeze the baked rolls once cooled and reheat them when needed, or freeze them unbaked after slicing.
Why is my dough not rising?
I make sure the milk is warm but not hot and that the yeast is fresh to ensure proper rising.
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
I can substitute active dry yeast, but I dissolve it in warm milk first and allow it to activate.
How do I keep the rolls soft?
I avoid overbaking and always cover them well during storage to lock in moisture.
Conclusion
I find these cinnamon sugar cream cheese fluffy rolls incredibly satisfying to make and share. They combine softness, warmth, and just the right amount of sweetness, making them a recipe I return to whenever I want something comforting and memorable.
These Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Fluffy Rolls are soft, tender yeast rolls swirled with buttery cinnamon sugar and a creamy layer of sweetened cream cheese. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they offer a comforting bakery-style treat at home.
Total Time:2 hours 30 minutes
Yield:12 rolls
Ingredients
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 packet instant yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
¾ cup warm milk
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
½ teaspoon salt
Filling:
½ cup softened butter
¾ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Cream Cheese Layer:
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Glaze (optional):
½ cup powdered sugar
1–2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, granulated sugar, and instant yeast. Stir and let sit briefly.
Add the egg, melted butter, and salt. Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. In a separate bowl, blend the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Roll the dough into a 12×16-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface, sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar mixture, and lightly spread the cream cheese mixture on top.
Roll the dough tightly from the long edge and slice into 12 rolls. Arrange rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes or until puffy.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 25–30 minutes until lightly golden.
Optional: Mix powdered sugar with milk and drizzle glaze over warm rolls before serving.
Notes
Use softened cream cheese for easy spreading.
Add nuts or spices like nutmeg for variation.
Make ahead by refrigerating shaped rolls overnight and baking fresh the next day.
