Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting to Try Today

If you’re craving something warm, soft, and irresistibly sweet, these Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are exactly what you need. Fluffy, tender rolls filled with fragrant cinnamon and topped with a luscious plant-based cream cheese frosting (plant-based) create a breakfast or dessert that feels like a cozy hug in every bite. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward, rewarding, and perfect to enjoy fresh or share with loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fluffy texture: The dough is soft and airy, making each bite melt in your mouth.
• Rich cinnamon flavor: The classic cinnamon filling is perfectly spiced without overpowering sweetness.
• Decadent cream cheese frosting (plant-based): The smooth topping balances the warmth of the rolls with just the right amount of tang and sweetness.
• Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples that come together easily for quick baking success.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a snack, these rolls always impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe plays an important role in delivering the perfect balance of flavor, softness, and moisture. From the fluffy dough to the luscious frosting, every component contributes to your delicious end result.

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure and tenderness for soft rolls.
• Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise and become airy.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
• Milk (plant-based): Moisturizes the dough and aids in creating softness.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the dough tender and moist.
• Salt: Balances flavors and controls yeast activity.
• Cinnamon (ground): The star spice providing warm, inviting flavor.
• Brown sugar (natural): Adds rich sweetness and moisture to the filling.
• Plant-based cream cheese (plant-based): Creates the creamy base for the frosting.
• Total powdered sugar (natural): Sweetens the frosting without granules making it smooth.
• Vanilla extract (natural): Enhances flavor both in dough and frosting.
• Lemon juice (natural): Adds brightness and subtle tang to the frosting.
• Natural gelling agent: Helps maintain perfect texture in the frosting.

Variations for Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Feel free to make this recipe your own by exploring easy variations. Whether you have dietary preferences or crave a new twist on a classic, these options keep the basics intact while adding delightful changes.

• Nutty delight: Add chopped toasted pecans or walnuts inside the cinnamon filling for crunch.
• Fruit-filled: Sprinkle dried cranberries or raisins into the cinnamon sugar before rolling.
• Maple twist: Replace vanilla extract in the frosting with maple syrup (natural) for a cozy flavor boost.
• Chocolate swirl: Add cocoa powder to part of the dough or swirl chocolate chips with the cinnamon sugar.
• Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for yeast dough to enjoy without gluten.

How to Make Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Warm your plant-based milk to about 110°F and stir in the active dry yeast with a pinch of sugar. Let it activate for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, then cover and let it rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 2: Roll and Fill

Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Mix brown sugar (natural) and cinnamon powder together, then evenly sprinkle the filling over the dough. Roll the dough tightly from the longer side, pinching the edge to seal the log.

Step 3: Cut and Arrange

Slice the rolled log into equal pieces, roughly 1.5 to 2 inches thick. Place each roll in a greased baking dish with some space in between to rise again. Cover and allow them to rise for another 30-45 minutes until fluffy.

Step 4: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and allow them to cool slightly before frosting.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting (plant-based)

Mix the plant-based cream cheese with powdered sugar (natural), vanilla extract (natural), lemon juice (natural), and a small amount of natural gelling agent until smooth and creamy. Spread generously over the warm rolls to let the frosting melt softly into every crevice.

Pro Tips for Making Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Perfect proofing: Ensure your dough doubles in size each rising to guarantee soft, airy rolls.
• Temperature matters: Use warm milk, not hot, to activate yeast without killing it.
• Thin layer of filling: Avoid overfilling with cinnamon sugar so rolls hold shape and bake evenly.
• Cool slightly before frosting: Apply frosting when rolls are warm but not hot for best texture.
• Use fresh spices: Fresh cinnamon makes a noticeable difference in aroma and flavor.

How to Serve Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

Try sprinkling a bit of chopped smoked turkey slices (optional savory touch) or a dusting of cinnamon powder on top of your frosted rolls to add color and extra aroma.

Side Dishes

Complement your warm cinnamon rolls with freshly brewed tea, a glass of grape juice, or even fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your rolls in a rustic basket lined with a linen napkin for brunch or arrange on a pretty cake stand for a dessert table centerpiece that invites compliments.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cinnamon rolls fresh by placing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to a week to preserve freshness.

Freezing

Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to three months, then thaw overnight and warm in the oven before frosting.

Reheating

Warm cinnamon rolls in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes or microwave for 20 seconds to recapture softness and revitalize the frosting’s creaminess.

FAQs

Can I make these cinnamon rolls vegan?

Absolutely! Using plant-based milk, plant-based cream cheese, and vegetable oil keeps these rolls 100% vegan and equally delicious.

How long does the dough need to rise?

The dough usually needs about 1 to 1.5 hours to double in size during the first rise, and about 30-45 minutes after shaping before baking.

Can I prepare the rolls the night before?

Yes, you can assemble the rolls, cover, and refrigerate them overnight, then bake them fresh in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.

What can I use if I don’t have all-purpose flour?

You can substitute with bread flour or a gluten-free baking blend designed for yeast baking to maintain the fluffiness.

Is the frosting necessary?

While the plant-based cream cheese frosting adds a wonderful richness, these cinnamon rolls are delicious on their own or with a simple glaze if you prefer.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about these Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting that brings warmth and joy to any table. The ease of making them, combined with the delight in every bite, makes this recipe a must-try for anyone who loves comforting baked goods. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to fill your home with the irresistible smell of cinnamon and sweetness today.

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