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–+ servings
Small batch cinnamon rolls, cinnamon rolls

Small Batch Cinnamon Rolls

The Perfect Sweet Treat for Any Occasion!
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Course Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Servings 6 Rolls

Ingredients
  

Dough:

  • 1/3 cup warm milk dairy or non-dairy
  • 1 1/4 tsp instant yeast
  • 1/2 tbsp sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1/2 tbsp oil
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 3/4 cups + 2 tbsp all-purpose flour plus more for dusting
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Filling:

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
  • Baking Liquid:
  • 2-3 tbsp heavy cream or milk

Icing:

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp milk or cream for a smoother texture

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and 1/2 tbsp sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
  • Stir in the granulated sugar, oil, vanilla, melted butter, and egg.
  • Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a dough forms.
  • Lightly dust the counter with flour and knead the dough for 6-8 minutes, adding a bit more flour if too sticky.
  • Cover and let rise in a warm place for 35 minutes.
  • Lightly flour the counter, deflate the dough, and roll it into a rectangle about 9×12 inches.
  • Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle with cinnamon and brown sugar. Press down gently to ensure it sticks.
  • Cut into six long strips and roll each one up tightly, tucking the ends under.
  • Place rolls in an 8-inch cake pan or small baking dish, ensuring they are close but not squished.
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F and let the rolls rise on the stovetop for 15 minutes while the oven heats.
  • Pour 2-3 tbsp of heavy cream or milk over the rolls before baking to enhance their softness and richness.
  • Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown and fluffy.
  • While baking, whisk together melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk for the icing. Adjust consistency if needed.
  • Remove rolls from the oven, drizzle generously with icing, and enjoy warm!

Notes

Tips for the Best Small Batch Cinnamon Rolls

  • Use Fresh Yeast – Make sure your yeast is fresh and active to ensure a good rise.
  • Warm, Not Hot Milk – The milk should be warm (about 110°F), not too hot, as it can kill the yeast.
  • Rolling Tip – If your dough resists rolling, let it rest for a few minutes to relax the gluten.
  • Enhance the Flavor – Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the filling for a subtle spice boost.
  • Make Ahead – You can prepare the rolls the night before, refrigerate them, and bake in the morning for fresh rolls with minimal effort.
Keyword cinnabon, cinnamon, cinnamon roll, cinnamon sugar, icing, small batch, sweet breakfast
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