Bonnie’s Easy Big-Batch Cinnamon Rolls

Soft, fluffy, and dripping with cinnamon-sugar goodness, these homemade cinnamon rolls are the kind of recipe that becomes family tradition the very first time you bake them. From the moment they go into the oven, your kitchen fills with a warm, buttery aroma that promises comfort, nostalgia, and pure indulgence.

This is the kind of recipe people beg you to bring to holidays, brunches, and special mornings. Best of all, despite making a generous batch, the method is simple and beginner-friendly — no stress, no complicated techniques, just consistently perfect results.

Why This Cinnamon Roll Recipe Is So Loved

Big-batch friendly – ideal for gatherings and make-ahead baking
Soft, pillowy dough that’s easy to handle
Rich cinnamon filling in every swirl
Balanced cream cheese frosting that isn’t overly sweet

Ingredients & Their Purpose

For the Dough

Warm milk – activates the yeast and creates a tender crumb
Active dry yeast – provides lift and fluffy texture
Granulated sugar – lightly sweetens the dough and feeds the yeast
Eggs – add richness, structure, and softness
Melted butter – enhances flavor and keeps the rolls moist
Salt – balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor
All-purpose flour – creates the perfect structure without heaviness

For the Cinnamon Filling

Brown sugar – melts into a rich, caramel-like swirl
Ground cinnamon – delivers that classic warm spice
Softened butter – helps the filling spread evenly and melt beautifully

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream cheese – adds tangy richness
Butter – smooths and softens the frosting
Powdered sugar – creates a silky, sweet finish
Vanilla extract – enhances warmth and depth
Milk – adjusts consistency for perfect spreading

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This ensures the yeast is active and ready to rise.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, melted butter, and salt. Stir in the yeast mixture until smooth.

Step 3: Add Flour & Knead

Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4: First Rise

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

Mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll the dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter evenly, then sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar.

Step 6: Roll & Slice

Roll the dough tightly from the long edge and slice into even rolls. Arrange in greased baking pans.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover and let rolls rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Step 8: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until lightly golden and cooked through.

Step 9: Frost & Serve

Beat frosting ingredients until smooth. Spread over warm rolls so it melts into every swirl.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls

Do not over-flour — soft dough equals soft rolls
Warm rolls + frosting = bakery-style perfection
Make ahead and refrigerate overnight for stress-free mornings
Use dental floss to slice clean, even rolls

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with fresh coffee or tea
Add chopped nuts or raisins for variation
Pair with fresh fruit for brunch balance

Final Thoughts

Bonnie’s Easy Big-Batch Cinnamon Rolls prove that homemade baking doesn’t have to be complicated to be unforgettable. With simple ingredients, clear steps, and guaranteed crowd-pleasing results, this recipe delivers maximum comfort with minimum effort.

If you’re looking for a cinnamon roll recipe that’s reliable, indulgent, and unforgettable, this is the one you’ll return to again and again.