Mini Cinnamon Rolls

Mini Cinnamon Rolls Recipe – Easy Homemade Cinna-minis

ByBella Skye
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Mini Cinnamon Rolls

Few baked treats can evoke the same feeling of warmth and comfort as freshly baked cinnamon rolls. Mini cinnamon rolls take this beloved classic and make it even more irresistible by transforming it into perfectly portioned, bite-sized delights. These little rolls are soft, fluffy, and generously swirled with sweet cinnamon sugar, often topped with a velvety frosting that melts into every nook and cranny.

More Hearty Desserts

What makes mini cinnamon rolls truly special is the balance of textures and flavors. The dough is tender yet slightly chewy, providing a delicate base for the sweet, spiced filling. Each roll is like a miniature cloud of happiness, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a dessert for a cozy night in. Because of their small size, they bake quickly, making them ideal for home cooks who want fresh cinnamon rolls without waiting hours for a full batch to rise.

People love mini cinnamon rolls for more than just their taste. Their size makes them fun to serve at gatherings, brunches, or even as a creative addition to a dessert table. They’re also easier to handle, portion, and serve compared to regular large cinnamon rolls, which can be messy to cut and share. In short, mini cinnamon rolls combine convenience, flavor, and comfort in a way that few baked goods can match.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

As a professional chef, I’ve tested countless cinnamon roll recipes, and this one stands out for its ease, flavor, and reliability. Here’s why you’ll love it:

  • Perfect Texture Every Time
    Using the right balance of flour, butter, and yeast ensures that your mini cinnamon rolls are tender, soft, and slightly chewy without being dense or doughy.
  • Quick and Achievable at Home
    This recipe uses techniques that give you soft rolls without complex or time-consuming steps, making it ideal for home bakers who want bakery-quality results.
  • Flexible for Any Occasion
    Whether you’re making cinnamon rolls for breakfast, a brunch spread, or a small dessert, the recipe scales easily. You can make a dozen, two dozen, or more without compromising quality.
  • Delicious Frosting Options
    The frosting complements the rolls perfectly, adding a creamy layer of sweetness. Whether you prefer classic cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze, these mini cinnamon rolls are versatile and indulgent.
  • Kid-Friendly and Shareable
    Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for kids and adults alike. They’re easy to grab, enjoy, and even pack in lunch boxes or as treats for gatherings.
Mini Cinnamon Rolls

Preparation and Cooking Time, also Serving

  • Preparation Time: 30 minutes
  • Rising Time: 1 hour
  • Cooking Time: 12–15 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Servings: 12–16 mini cinnamon rolls

These times assume you follow the steps carefully and allow the dough to rise fully for optimal texture and flavor.

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
  • ¾ cup whole milk, warmed (110°F)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg

For the Cinnamon Filling

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • Optional: ¼ teaspoon nutmeg for extra warmth

For the Frosting

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1–2 tablespoons milk (to adjust consistency)

Substitution Notes:

  • Milk: You can substitute with almond, oat, or soy milk.
  • Butter: Unsalted butter is best, but salted butter works; reduce salt in the dough by ¼ teaspoon.
  • Brown sugar: Coconut sugar or maple sugar can be used for a slightly different flavor.
  • Cream cheese: Greek yogurt or mascarpone can substitute in the frosting for a lighter option.
Mini Cinnamon Rolls

Step-by-Step Instructions

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Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. This step ensures the yeast is active and will give you a light, fluffy dough. Add the melted butter, egg, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Gradually add the remaining flour, ¼ cup at a time, until the dough is soft and slightly elastic. Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes or with a stand mixer using the dough hook attachment. The dough should be smooth and slightly tacky but not overly sticky.

Cinnamon rolls vector

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. Proper rising is key to achieving soft, fluffy rolls.

Cinnamon rolls vector

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

While the dough rises, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until smooth. The mixture should be spreadable but firm enough to hold inside the rolls.

Cinnamon rolls vector

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. On a lightly floured surface, roll it into a rectangle approximately 12×9 inches. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Cinnamon rolls vector

Step 5: Roll and Cut the Mini Rolls

Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12–16 equal pieces. For uniform rolls, try to measure each slice to about 1 inch thick.

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Step 6: Second Rise

Place the mini rolls in a greased baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a towel and let rise for another 20–30 minutes. They should puff slightly but not double in size.

Cinnamon rolls vector

Step 7: Bake the Mini Cinnamon Rolls

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 12–15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown. Avoid overbaking; you want soft, tender rolls rather than crispy ones.

Cinnamon rolls vector

Step 8: Prepare the Frosting

While the rolls bake, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy. Adjust consistency with milk if necessary.

Cinnamon rolls vector

Step 9: Frost and Serve

Once the rolls are baked, allow them to cool for 5 minutes, then generously frost while still slightly warm. This allows the frosting to melt into the swirls, creating a creamy, gooey topping.

How to Serve

Mini cinnamon rolls are versatile and can be served in many ways:

  • Serve warm in a small basket lined with parchment paper for a cozy breakfast presentation.
  • Pair with fresh fruit or berries to balance the sweetness.
  • Add a side of whipped cream, maple syrup, or caramel drizzle for a decadent touch.
  • Perfect for brunch spreads, afternoon tea, or as a dessert buffet treat.
  • Arrange on a decorative platter, sprinkle with extra cinnamon or powdered sugar for visual appeal.

Additional Tips

  • Use room-temperature ingredients for a smooth, pliable dough.
  • Don’t overfill the rolls; too much cinnamon sugar can seep out and burn.
  • Ensure the oven is fully preheated for even baking.
  • For extra flavor, toast the cinnamon lightly in a dry pan before mixing with sugar.
  • Use a serrated knife or dental floss to cut rolls cleanly without squishing them.

Recipe Variations

  • Chocolate Cinnamon Mini Rolls
    Add mini chocolate chips to the cinnamon filling for a chocolatey twist.
  • Apple Cinnamon Rolls
    Fold in finely diced apples into the filling for a fruity variation.
  • Caramel Pecan Rolls
    Sprinkle chopped pecans and drizzle caramel over the frosting for a crunchy, sweet upgrade.
  • Pumpkin Spice Mini Rolls
    Add 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice to the filling for a seasonal treat.
Mini Cinnamon Rolls

Freezing and Storage

  • To Freeze Unbaked Rolls: Place the cut rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the baking time.
  • To Freeze Baked Rolls: Allow to cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.
  • Storage at Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Reheating Tips: Microwave for 15–20 seconds or warm in a preheated oven to regain softness.

Nutritional Information (Per Mini Roll Approximation)

  • Calories: 220
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 120mg

Final Words

Mini cinnamon rolls are a timeless treat that elevate any breakfast or dessert table. Baking them at home allows you to control the ingredients, adjust sweetness, and customize flavors according to your preferences. The satisfaction of pulling golden, aromatic mini rolls out of your oven is unmatched, and the joy they bring to family and friends is priceless.

By mastering this recipe, you’re not just making baked goods; you’re creating small, edible moments of happiness that can brighten anyone’s day. These rolls are approachable, versatile, and forgiving, making them a perfect starting point for beginner bakers and a fun canvas for more experienced cooks to experiment with flavors and toppings.

Whether you stick to the classic cinnamon swirl, try chocolate, fruit, or seasonal variations, this recipe ensures consistently soft, flavorful, and delicious mini cinnamon rolls every time. Treat yourself, share them with loved ones, and let the aroma of fresh-baked rolls fill your kitchen. Your journey to bakery-quality cinnamon rolls at home starts here, and with practice, these mini delights will become a staple in your baking repertoire.

FAQ’s

Yes, you can use baking powder for a quick version, but the texture will be more cake-like and less fluffy.

At room temperature, 2 days in an airtight container. Refrigerated, 5 days. Frozen, up to 2 months.

Yes, premade pizza or crescent roll dough works for quick mini cinnamon rolls. Adjust baking time as needed.

Yes, use plant-based cream cheese and butter substitutes.

Do not overbake, keep the dough soft, and cover them while rising. Frosting helps retain moisture.

Mini Cinnamon Rolls Recipe - Easy Homemade Cinna-minis
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Mini Cinnamon Rolls Recipe – Easy Homemade Cinna-minis

Recipe by Bella SkyeCourse: Desserts
Servings

12

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

15

minutes
Calories

220

kcal

Ingredients

  • For the Dough

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast

  • ¾ cup whole milk, warmed (110°F)

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 large egg

  • For the Cinnamon Filling

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

  • ½ cup brown sugar, packed

  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

  • Optional: ¼ teaspoon nutmeg for extra warmth

  • For the Frosting

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 cup powdered sugar

  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1–2 tablespoons milk (to adjust consistency)

Directions

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. This step ensures the yeast is active and will give you a light, fluffy dough. Add the melted butter, egg, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Gradually add the remaining flour, ¼ cup at a time, until the dough is soft and slightly elastic. Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes or with a stand mixer using the dough hook attachment. The dough should be smooth and slightly tacky but not overly sticky.
  • Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. Proper rising is key to achieving soft, fluffy rolls.
  • While the dough rises, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until smooth. The mixture should be spreadable but firm enough to hold inside the rolls.
  • Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. On a lightly floured surface, roll it into a rectangle approximately 12×9 inches. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
  • Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12–16 equal pieces. For uniform rolls, try to measure each slice to about 1 inch thick.
  • Place the mini rolls in a greased baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a towel and let rise for another 20–30 minutes. They should puff slightly but not double in size.
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 12–15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown. Avoid overbaking; you want soft, tender rolls rather than crispy ones.
  • While the rolls bake, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy. Adjust consistency with milk if necessary.
  • Once the rolls are baked, allow them to cool for 5 minutes, then generously frost while still slightly warm. This allows the frosting to melt into the swirls, creating a creamy, gooey topping.

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