There is an undeniable allure to a bakery cinnamon roll, with its perfect swirl, decadent frosting, and impressive size.
But the true magic of this beloved pastry is born in a home kitchen, where the process itself, from the soft, yielding dough to the intoxicating aroma that fills every room, becomes part of the experience.
Here is the complete summary table for the 70 homemade cinnamon roll recipes, including an estimated cost for each and with the category column left empty.
This comprehensive collection of 70 recipes is your guide to recreating, and even surpassing, that bakery-quality magic. From timeless classics to innovative modern twists, these recipes will help you craft cinnamon rolls that are not just delicious, but are truly unforgettable.
The Foundational Classics
These are the pillars of the cinnamon roll world. Mastering these from-scratch doughs and techniques will give you the confidence to create any variation imaginable.
1. The Ultimate Overnight Brioche Rolls
The secret to the richest, most tender roll is an enriched brioche dough and a slow, cold rise overnight, which develops complex flavors and a melt in your mouth texture.
DIY Tips:
- The dough will be very soft. Chilling it for at least a few hours or overnight before rolling is essential to make it manageable.
- Let the rolls rest at room temperature for about an hour before baking to take the chill off and ensure a beautiful final rise.
- Use a high quality, high fat European style butter for the most luxurious flavor.
2. Old Fashioned Potato Dough Rolls
A vintage secret, adding mashed potatoes to the dough creates an unbelievably soft, moist, and tender roll that stays fresh for days.
DIY Tips:
- Use plain, unseasoned leftover mashed potatoes. Ensure they are smooth and free of lumps.
- The potato starch can make the dough slightly stickier, so do not be afraid to use a well floured surface for kneading.
- The natural sweetness of the potato means you can slightly reduce the sugar in the dough itself.
3. Fluffy Buttermilk Rolls
The gentle acidity in buttermilk tenderizes the gluten in the dough, resulting in an exceptionally soft, fluffy roll with a pleasant tang that balances the sweet frosting.
DIY Tips:
- If you do not have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding one tablespoon of lemon juice to one cup of regular milk.
- Warm the buttermilk gently; you do not want to curdle it before it gets to the dough.
- This dough pairs perfectly with a classic, tangy cream cheese frosting.
4. Tangzhong Milk Bread Rolls
This Asian technique involves cooking a small portion of the flour and liquid into a thick paste (the tangzhong), which is then added to the dough. The result is an incredibly soft, moist, and springy roll that has a longer shelf life.
DIY Tips:
- Let the tangzhong cool to room temperature before adding it to your other dough ingredients.
- This method creates a roll with a uniquely shreddable, feathery texture.
- The dough is a beautiful canvas for any classic filling and frosting.
5. Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls
For a more complex flavor profile, using an active sourdough starter provides the leavening and lends a subtle, delightful tang that cuts through the sweetness.
DIY Tips:
- The proofing times for sourdough are highly dependent on your starter’s strength. Watch the dough, not the clock.
- For a less pronounced sour flavor, use your sourdough discard along with a little commercial yeast.
- A brown butter frosting beautifully complements the nutty, tangy notes of the sourdough.
6. Classic Cream Cheese Frosted Rolls
This is the iconic cinnamon roll. A soft, pillowy dough with a generous cinnamon swirl is slathered in a thick, tangy, and sweet cream cheese frosting
DIY Tips:
- Use full fat, block style cream cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Ensure the butter and cream cheese are fully softened to room temperature to avoid lumps.
- Spread the frosting on while the rolls are still warm so it melts into every crevice.
7. Big as Your Face Bakery Style Rolls
These are giant, impressive cinnamon rolls, just like the ones you see at specialty bakeries. They are perfect for sharing and make a big statement.
DIY Tips:
- Bake these large rolls in a cake pan with their sides touching to help them rise up instead of spreading out.
- These will require a longer baking time, so cover them with foil if the tops start to get too brown before the center is cooked.
- One of these is a meal in itself, perfect for a special occasion brunch.
8. Brown Butter Cinnamon Rolls
The simple act of browning the butter for both the filling and the frosting adds an incredible depth of nutty, toasted flavor that is simply divine.
DIY Tips:
- Cook the butter until it foams and you see browned milk solids at the bottom of the pan; that is where the flavor is.
- Let the brown butter cool slightly so it does not melt the sugar in the filling too much.
- A sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the finished rolls is essential to balance the richness.
9. 1 Hour Rapid Rise Rolls
For when the craving strikes and you do not have hours to wait, this recipe uses quick rise yeast and a few tricks to get you warm, gooey rolls in about an hour.
DIY Tips:/
10. Whole Wheat Cinnamon Rolls
By incorporating whole wheat flour, you can create a heartier, nuttier, and more wholesome roll that is still wonderfully soft and delicious.
DIY Tips
- For a lighter texture, start with a 50/50 blend of whole wheat and all purpose or bread flour.
- Whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture, so you may need to add an extra tablespoon or two of milk to your dough.
- A maple or honey sweetened glaze is a natural pairing for the nutty flavor of whole wheat.
Decadent & Indulgent Rolls
For those times when more is more, these rich and gooey rolls are loaded with chocolate, nuts, and caramel for a truly over the top treat.
11. Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns
The ultimate gooey treat, these are cinnamon rolls baked upside down on a layer of caramel and pecans, creating a built in, irresistible topping.
DIY Tips:
- Invert the pan onto a serving platter while the buns are still very warm to ensure the caramel topping releases cleanly.
- Toast the pecans before arranging them in the pan to deepen their nutty flavor.
- A splash of dark rum or bourbon in the caramel sauce adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
12. Double Chocolate Rolls
For the true chocoholic, these rolls feature cocoa powder in the dough, a chocolate cinnamon filling, and a rich chocolate ganache topping.
DIY Tips:
- Use a high quality Dutch process cocoa powder for the richest, darkest chocolate flavor.
- A teaspoon of instant espresso powder in the filling will intensify the chocolate notes.
- For a gooey center, sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the filling before rolling.
13. Salted Caramel Rolls
A gooey, homemade salted caramel sauce is drizzled over the rolls both before and after baking, creating an irresistibly sweet and salty dessert.
DIY Tips:
- Make the salted caramel sauce a day ahead to save time.
- Sprinkle the finished rolls with flaky sea salt to enhance the flavor and balance the sweetness.
- A layer of chopped pecans under the caramel adds a delicious crunch.
14. Nutella Swirled Rolls
A simple yet genius twist, a generous layer of creamy chocolate hazelnut spread is swirled into the dough for a rich and universally loved flavor.
DIY Tips:
- Gently warm the Nutella for a few seconds in the microwave to make it easier to spread evenly.
- Sprinkle toasted, chopped hazelnuts over the Nutella layer for a delightful crunch.
- These are so rich that they often only need a light dusting of powdered sugar to finish.
15. Tiramisu Inspired Rolls
Capturing the flavors of the classic Italian dessert, these rolls feature a coffee infused dough, a creamy mascarpone cheese filling, and a dusting of cocoa powder.
DIY Tips:
- Replace some of the milk in the dough with strong brewed coffee or espresso.
- Use full fat mascarpone cheese for the most authentic, rich filling.
- Serve these at room temperature and dust with cocoa powder just before serving.
16. Cookies and Cream (Oreo) Rolls
A fun, modern twist where crushed Oreo cookies are mixed into the cinnamon sugar filling and sprinkled over a cream cheese frosting.
DIY Tips:
- Use a food processor to crush the Oreos into a coarse crumb for the best texture.
- For the ultimate “cookies and cream” experience, use a chocolate based dough for the rolls.
- The frosting should mimic the flavor of the Oreo cream, so a simple vanilla cream cheese frosting is perfect.
17. Biscoff (Cookie Butter) Rolls
Deeply comforting and uniquely spiced, these rolls are filled with melted cookie butter, creating a flavor reminiscent of Belgian speculoos cookies.
DIY Tips:
- A brown sugar cream cheese frosting beautifully complements the spiced notes of the Biscoff.
- Crush extra Biscoff cookies and sprinkle them over the frosted rolls for a crunchy finish.
- Warm the cookie butter slightly to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
18. Toffee Crunch Rolls
Bits of crunchy, buttery toffee are mixed into the dough, creating pockets of caramelized flavor that are irresistible.
DIY Tips:
- Use pre made toffee bits, or crush your favorite toffee candy bar.
- A mix of toffee bits and milk chocolate chips is a fantastic combination.
- Press a few extra toffee bits onto the tops of the cookies before baking for a beautiful, textured look.
19. White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Rolls
The buttery crunch of macadamia nuts and the sweet creaminess of white chocolate chips make for a truly decadent and unique roll.
DIY Tips:
- Toast the macadamia nuts lightly before chopping them to enhance their flavor.
- A pinch of cardamom in the dough complements the white chocolate wonderfully.
- Do not overbake; these rolls are best when the edges are just golden.
20. Dulce de Leche Rolls
A thick layer of rich, creamy dulce de leche is spread over the dough before the cinnamon sugar, creating a gooey, Latin inspired caramel dream.
DIY Tips:
- Use a high quality, thick dulce de leche. If it is too thin, it may leak out during baking.
- A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top is a must to balance the intense sweetness.
- These are fantastic with a dusting of powdered sugar instead of a heavy frosting.
Fruity & Fresh Twists
Incorporating fruit adds a wonderful brightness, tang, and natural sweetness that perfectly complements the warm spice of a classic roll.
21. Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
This is a perfect marriage of two fall classics. Tender, spiced apple chunks are rolled up with the cinnamon sugar filling.
DIY Tips:
- Finely dice a tart apple, like a Granny Smith, and sauté it in a little butter and cinnamon until just tender before adding to the filling.
- A drizzle of salted caramel sauce over the cream cheese frosting takes the apple pie theme to the next level.
- Add a pinch of apple pie spice or cardamom to the filling for a more complex flavor.
22. Cranberry Orange Rolls
A festive and beautiful combination, perfect for the holidays. Tart cranberries and bright orange zest are featured in both the filling and the glaze.
DIY Tips:
- Use fresh or frozen cranberries, roughly chopped, for the best tart flavor.
- Infuse the dough itself by adding the zest of one orange directly into your wet ingredients.
- A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and fresh orange juice is the perfect finish.
23. Lemon Sweet Rolls
A bright and sunny twist, these rolls swap the cinnamon for a sweet, zesty lemon filling and are topped with a tangy lemon infused frosting.
DIY Tips:
- For the most intense flavor, use both fresh lemon juice and plenty of finely grated lemon zest in the filling.
- A layer of lemon curd spread over the dough adds an extra pop of flavor.
- These rolls are delightful served at room temperature or even slightly chilled.
24. Raspberry Swirl Rolls
Instead of cinnamon, these rolls are spread with a thick layer of raspberry jam, creating a beautiful pink spiral and a perfect sweet tart flavor.
DIY Tips:
- Use a high quality, thick seedless raspberry jam to prevent the filling from becoming too runny.
- A simple almond flavored glaze is a classic and delicious pairing with raspberry.
- For a richer version, spread a thin layer of sweetened cream cheese on the dough before adding the jam.
25. Blueberry Rolls with a Lemon Glaze
Juicy blueberries are scattered throughout the filling, bursting during baking to create pockets of warm, jammy fruit. The lemon glaze provides a bright, complementary citrus note.
DIY Tips:
- Gently toss the blueberries in a tablespoon of flour before sprinkling them over the filling to prevent the dough from getting soggy.
- Use fresh or frozen blueberries. If using frozen, there is no need to thaw them first.
- The combination of blueberry and lemon is classic; do not skip the zesty glaze.
26. Peach Cobbler Rolls
These rolls capture the essence of summer with a filling of tender, spiced peaches, all topped with a buttery crumble for that authentic cobbler crunch.
DIY Tips:
- Use fresh or canned peaches (drained well). If using fresh, peel and dice them first.
- A pinch of nutmeg and a dash of vanilla in the filling will enhance the peach flavor.
- Sprinkle a simple streusel topping over the rolls before the final rise for the best texture.
27. Strawberry Rhubarb Rolls
A classic springtime combination, the tartness of rhubarb is balanced by the sweetness of strawberries in a unique and delicious filling.
DIY Tips:
- Cook down the diced strawberries and rhubarb with a little sugar to create a thick, jam like filling before spreading it on the dough.
- A vanilla bean cream cheese frosting is the perfect creamy counterpoint to the tart fruit.
- These rolls are best enjoyed the day they are made.
28. Pineapple & Coconut Morning Buns
A tropical twist that tastes like a vacation. Crushed pineapple and sweetened coconut flakes create a sweet, sunny filling.
DIY Tips:
- Drain the crushed pineapple very well to avoid a soggy filling.
- Toast the coconut flakes before adding them to the filling to enhance their flavor.
- A glaze made with coconut milk and powdered sugar completes the tropical theme.
29. Cherry Almond Rolls
The sweet tart flavor of cherries pairs wonderfully with the nutty aroma of almond. This is an elegant and delicious combination.
DIY Tips:
- You can use canned cherry pie filling for an easy, gooey filling.
- A few drops of almond extract in a standard powdered sugar glaze will give it a beautiful, sophisticated flavor.
- Garnish with a few toasted, slivered almonds.
30. Fig and Honey Rolls
A sophisticated and delicious roll, especially in the late summer and fall. A layer of fig jam and a drizzle of honey are spread on the dough before rolling.
DIY Tips:
- A sprinkle of chopped walnuts or a schmear of goat cheese on the dough before the fig jam adds a wonderful complexity.
- A light orange glaze complements the fig flavor beautifully.
- These are fantastic served as part of a special brunch.
Spiced & Aromatic Rolls
Go beyond basic cinnamon and explore a world of warm and exotic spices that can elevate your homemade rolls to a whole new level.
31. Chai Spiced Rolls
A fragrant blend of spices like cardamom, ginger, allspice, cloves, and black pepper is mixed with the cinnamon for a warm, complex, and aromatic filling.
DIY Tips:
- Create your own chai spice blend for the freshest flavor.
- Infuse the milk for the dough by steeping a few chai tea bags in it while it warms.
- A simple vanilla or honey glaze allows the complex spice flavor to be the star.
32. Cardamom Buns (Kanelbullar)
Inspired by Swedish baking, these rolls feature cardamom as the primary spice in the dough and the filling. They are often tied into a beautiful knot shape and topped with pearl sugar.
DIY Tips:
- Use freshly ground cardamom for the most potent and aromatic flavor.
- Look up a tutorial for the traditional Swedish knot shape; it is a beautiful presentation.
- Brush the buns with a simple sugar syrup right out of the oven to keep them soft and give them a nice sheen.
33. Gingerbread Rolls
Perfect for the holidays, these dark, spicy rolls are made with molasses and a heavy dose of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. The bright lemon glaze provides a perfect, zesty contrast.
DIY Tips:
- Use a dark, robust molasses for that deep, traditional gingerbread flavor.
- Do not be shy with the ground ginger for a real spicy kick.
- The acidity of the lemon glaze is crucial for cutting through the richness of the molasses.
34. Orange Clove Sweet Rolls
The warm, pungent flavor of clove pairs beautifully with the bright zest of orange. This combination creates a uniquely festive and aromatic roll.
DIY Tips:
- Use freshly grated orange zest and a small amount of ground cloves, as the flavor is very strong.
- A simple glaze made with orange juice and powdered sugar enhances the citrus notes.
- These rolls are especially wonderful during the Christmas season.
35. Mexican Hot Chocolate Rolls
These rolls are infused with cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne pepper or ancho chili powder for a subtle, surprising warmth that follows the rich chocolate flavor.
DIY Tips:
- Start with a very small amount of cayenne or chili powder; you can always add more.
- Use a mix of dark chocolate chunks and cinnamon chips if you can find them.
- Rolling the balls of dough in a cinnamon sugar mixture before baking adds an extra layer of flavor.
36. Allspice and Brown Sugar Rolls
Allspice gives a complex flavor reminiscent of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves all in one. Paired with dark brown sugar, it creates a deeply comforting and classic roll.
DIY Tips:
- Use dark brown sugar for a richer, more molasses forward flavor in the filling.
- A simple brown butter glaze is the perfect complement to these warm spices.
- These are a perfect, simple twist when you want something slightly different.
37. Nutmeg and Cream Rolls
Focusing on the warm, sweet flavor of nutmeg, these rolls often have a cream based dough and a simple nutmeg and sugar filling.
DIY Tips:
- Use freshly grated nutmeg for the most aromatic and potent flavor.
- A simple “heavy cream pour” over the rolls before baking will make them incredibly gooey and rich.
- These are fantastic with a simple vanilla frosting.
38. Star Anise and Pear Rolls
A sophisticated combination, finely ground star anise is added to the filling along with finely diced, tender pears.
DIY Tips:
- Star anise is very potent, so a little goes a long way. Grind it fresh for the best flavor.
- Use a firm pear variety that will hold its shape when baked.
- A light honey glaze is a perfect finish for these elegant rolls.
39. Black Pepper and Molasses Rolls
A surprisingly delicious and old fashioned combination. The sharp bite of fresh black pepper cuts through the rich, dark sweetness of molasses.
DIY Tips:
- Use freshly cracked black pepper for the best flavor.
- This is a less sweet roll, perfect for serving with coffee.
- A simple pat of butter is often a better topping than a sweet glaze.
40. Five Spice Powder Rolls
Using Chinese Five Spice powder (a blend of star anise, cloves, cinnamon, Sichuan pepper, and fennel) in the filling creates a warm, complex, and unexpected flavor.
DIY Tips:
- This is a savory leaning sweet roll, and it is absolutely delicious.
- It pairs well with a less sweet frosting, like a tangy cream cheese version.
- Go light on the five spice powder at first until you know how much you like.
Holiday & Seasonal Specials
These rolls are designed to capture the essence of a specific holiday or season, making your cozy morning celebrations even more special.
41. Classic Pumpkin Spice Rolls
The quintessential fall treat. Pumpkin puree in the dough makes them incredibly moist, and the filling is packed with a warm blend of pumpkin pie spices.
DIY Tips:
- The pumpkin puree adds extra moisture, so you may need to add a bit more flour to get the right dough consistency.
- A maple cream cheese frosting is the perfect autumnal topping.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas).
42. Rich Eggnog Rolls
Perfect for Christmas morning, real eggnog is used in both the dough and the frosting for a creamy, rich, and festively spiced roll.
DIY Tips:
- Use a full fat, high quality eggnog for the best flavor.
- Add a splash of brandy or rum to the frosting for a truly authentic eggnog flavor.
- A dusting of freshly grated nutmeg just before serving is a must.
43. Peppermint Hot Chocolate Rolls
A festive winter wonderland treat. A rich chocolate dough is topped with a cool peppermint glaze and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes.
DIY Tips:
- Use peppermint extract in the glaze, not mint. Start with a small amount as it is very potent.
- Sprinkle the crushed candy canes on right before serving to prevent them from getting soft and sticky.
- A drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the peppermint glaze looks beautiful.
44. Red Velvet Rolls
Perfect for a special Valentine’s Day breakfast, these rolls have a striking red color, a subtle cocoa flavor, and are always topped with a thick layer of tangy cream cheese frosting.
DIY Tips:
- Use gel food coloring for the most vibrant red without adding too much extra liquid to the dough.
- The filling is typically a simple butter and sugar mixture; the main flavor comes from the dough and frosting.
- Be generous with the cream cheese frosting, it is an essential part of the red velvet experience.
45. Hot Cross Bun Inspired Easter Rolls
These rolls are flavored with warm spices and studded with currants or raisins. A cross made of frosting piped on top makes them perfect for an Easter brunch.
DIY Tips:
- Soak the dried fruit in warm tea or orange juice to plump them up before adding to the dough.
- A shiny glaze made from melted apricot jam can be brushed over the warm buns for a traditional finish.
- The cross can also be made with a simple flour and water paste piped on before baking.
46. Irish Cream Rolls
A perfect treat for a St. Patrick’s Day brunch, these rolls feature a coffee flavored dough and a rich, sweet frosting made with Irish cream liqueur.
DIY Tips:
- Replace some of the milk in the dough with strong brewed coffee.
- The Irish cream frosting is sweet and delicious, so you do not need much.
- A sprinkle of chocolate shavings over the top is a lovely finishing touch.
47. Fourth of July “Firecracker” Rolls
A fun and patriotic twist. A classic sweet roll is filled with a mix of strawberry and blueberry jam and topped with a vanilla glaze and festive red, white, and blue sprinkles.
DIY Tips:
- Create a swirl effect by dotting both jams over the dough before rolling.
- Use star shaped sprinkles for an extra patriotic touch.
- These are a fun, unexpected treat for a holiday barbecue breakfast.
48. Caramel Apple Rolls
A perfect fall festival treat, these rolls are filled with tender apples and then drenched in a gooey caramel sauce after baking.
DIY Tips:
- Use a tart, firm apple like a Granny Smith that will hold its shape.
- Pour a high quality jarred caramel sauce over the warm rolls, or make your own.
- A sprinkle of sea salt on top of the caramel is a must to balance the sweetness.
49. Sweet Potato Rolls with a Marshmallow Glaze
A nod to the classic Thanksgiving casserole, these rolls have mashed sweet potato in the dough and are topped with a gooey, sweet glaze made from melted marshmallow fluff.
DIY Tips:
- Roast the sweet potato to concentrate its flavor before mashing it for the dough.
- Sprinkle toasted, chopped pecans over the marshmallow glaze for a crunchy topping.
- These are a fun and unexpected addition to a holiday brunch.
50. Mincemeat Inspired Rolls
These rolls capture the festive, spiced fruit flavor of traditional mincemeat pie filling, often with a mix of dried fruits, apple, and warm spices.
DIY Tips:
- Use a high quality, jarred mincemeat filling as a shortcut.
- A drizzle of brandy or rum infused glaze is the perfect finish.
- These are a wonderfully festive treat for a Christmas morning.
Unique & Unexpected Flavors
For the adventurous baker, these creative combinations push the boundaries of what a cinnamon roll can be.
51. Coffee Infused Rolls with Espresso Glaze
A coffee lover’s dream, the dough is infused with strong coffee, and the glaze is made with a shot of espresso for a double dose of flavor.
DIY Tips:
- Replacing the milk in your dough recipe with brewed coffee is an easy way to infuse the flavor.
- Instant espresso powder is a great way to get concentrated coffee flavor in the glaze without adding too much liquid.
- A sprinkle of finely chopped chocolate covered espresso beans is the perfect garnish.
52. Baklava Inspired Rolls
These rolls capture the essence of the classic Greek dessert with a filling of finely chopped walnuts, cinnamon, and honey, all soaked in a honey citrus syrup after baking.
DIY Tips:
- Pour the cool syrup over the hot rolls as soon as they come out of the oven.
- A hint of rose water or orange blossom water in the syrup adds an authentic, aromatic touch.
- Garnish with extra finely chopped walnuts or pistachios.
53. Lavender Honey Rolls
A delicate and floral twist, a small amount of culinary lavender is infused into the honey used for the filling, creating a unique and calming flavor profile.
DIY Tips:
- Gently warm the honey with a teaspoon of culinary lavender buds to infuse the flavor, then strain before using.
- A simple, light glaze is best to not overpower the delicate lavender flavor.
- This is a sophisticated roll, perfect for a special occasion like a bridal shower or spring brunch.
54. Savory Garlic and Herb Rolls
The sweet filling is replaced with a savory mixture of roasted garlic, butter, and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme.
DIY Tips:
- Roast a whole head of garlic until it is soft and sweet before mashing it into the butter.
- Top the rolls with grated Parmesan or Asiago cheese before baking.
- Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
55. Pizza Rolls
These rolls are filled with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni or other pizza toppings, then rolled up and sliced just like a cinnamon roll.
DIY Tips:
- Do not use too much sauce, or the rolls will become soggy.
- A sprinkle of Italian seasoning in the filling enhances the pizza flavor.
- Serve with extra warm marinara sauce for dipping.
56. Bacon Cheddar Rolls
A perfect combination of smoky, salty, and cheesy, these rolls are filled with crispy, crumbled bacon and sharp cheddar cheese.
DIY Tips:
- Cook the bacon until it is very crispy so it does not become chewy in the rolls.
- A sprinkle of chopped chives or green onions in the filling adds a fresh, sharp flavor.
- These are delicious served with a side of scrambled eggs for a full brunch.
57. Pesto and Parmesan Rolls
A vibrant and flavorful filling of basil pesto and salty Parmesan cheese makes for a delicious, Italian inspired savory roll.
DIY Tips:
- Use a high quality store bought pesto or make your own for the best flavor.
- Add some toasted pine nuts to the filling for a classic pesto crunch.
- These are wonderful served warm alongside a bowl of tomato soup.
58. Miso Caramel Rolls
The addition of white miso paste to a classic caramel roll filling creates an incredible “umami” depth and a salty sweet complexity that is utterly addictive.
DIY Tips:
- Use white (shiro) miso, as it is milder and sweeter than other varieties.
- Whisk the miso paste into the caramel filling after it has cooked to ensure it dissolves smoothly.
- A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds on top is a fantastic finish.
59. Everything Bagel Spice Rolls
These savory rolls are filled with a scallion cream cheese and topped with a generous sprinkle of everything bagel spice.
DIY Tips:
- Use a less sweet dough as your base for these savory rolls.
- An egg wash on top before sprinkling the seasoning will help it adhere.
- These are the ultimate brunch roll.
60. Thai Tea Rolls
The dough is infused with strongly brewed Thai tea, and the roll is finished with a sweet glaze made from condensed milk, just like the drink.
DIY Tips:
- Steep several Thai tea bags in the warm milk for the dough until it is a deep orange color.
- The filling can be a simple butter and sugar mixture, as the main flavor comes from the dough and glaze.
- These are a unique and delicious treat for an adventurous baker.
Shortcut & Dietary Friendly Rolls
These recipes prove that everyone can enjoy a homemade cinnamon roll, regardless of time constraints or dietary needs.
61. No Yeast Cinnamon Rolls
These rolls use a quick bread style dough leavened with baking powder and baking soda, so there is no waiting for the dough to rise.
DIY Tips:
- Work the dough as little as possible to keep the rolls tender.
- These are best served warm, straight from the oven.
- Buttermilk will give this dough the best texture and a slight tang.
62. Canned Biscuit Cinnamon Rolls
The ultimate shortcut, canned biscuit dough is separated, flattened, spread with filling, and rolled up for a super fast version of the classic.
DIY Tips:
- Use the layered style “Grands” biscuits, as they are easy to unroll into a rectangle.
- Be generous with the butter and cinnamon sugar filling.
- These bake very quickly, so keep an eye on them.
63. Crescent Roll Cinnamon Rolls
Refrigerated crescent roll dough provides a buttery, flaky base for a quick and easy cinnamon roll that is ready in under 30 minutes.
DIY Tips:
- Pinch the seams of the crescent roll dough together to form a solid rectangle before adding the filling.
- A simple powdered sugar and milk glaze is all these need.
- These are great for a last minute breakfast treat for kids.
64. Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls
Store bought puff pastry is spread with filling, rolled, sliced, and baked for a light, crispy, and flaky version of a cinnamon roll.
DIY Tips:
- Thaw the puff pastry according to the package directions.
- Do not press down on the rolls when you place them on the baking sheet, as this can compress the layers.
- These are delicious with a simple powdered sugar glaze.
65. Cinnamon Roll Casserole (“Monkey Bread”)
Cubes of biscuit or bread dough are tossed in cinnamon sugar, layered in a pan, and baked with a buttery caramel or brown sugar sauce.
DIY Tips:
- Cut refrigerated biscuits into quarters for the perfect bite sized pieces.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts or raisins between the layers of dough.
- This is a fun, pull apart treat that is perfect for a crowd.
66. Vegan Cinnamon Rolls
These rolls are made without any animal products, using plant based milk and butter and a simple powdered sugar glaze.
DIY Tips:
- Use a high quality vegan butter for the best flavor and texture.
- Full fat oat milk or soy milk works wonderfully in the dough.
- A vegan cream cheese frosting can be made with store bought vegan cream cheese.
67. Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls
Made with a special blend of gluten free flours, these rolls allow those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity to enjoy a warm, gooey cinnamon roll.
DIY Tips:
- Use a gluten free flour blend that contains xanthan gum, which helps mimic the structure of gluten.
- The dough will be stickier and less elastic than a traditional dough; do not be afraid to use extra flour when rolling.
- These are best enjoyed fresh, as gluten free baked goods can dry out quickly.
68. Keto Cinnamon Rolls (“Fathead Dough”)
These low carb rolls are made with a popular keto dough made from mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, and almond flour, delivering a surprisingly delicious result.
DIY Tips:
- The “fathead” dough can be sticky; chilling it or rolling it between two pieces of parchment paper can help.
- Use a powdered keto friendly sweetener for the filling and frosting to avoid a gritty texture.
- These rolls are very filling, so a small one goes a long way.
69. Low Sugar Cinnamon Rolls
By reducing the sugar in the filling and using a less sweet frosting, you can still enjoy a delicious cinnamon roll with less of a sugar rush.
DIY Tips:
- Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit in the filling.
- A simple cream cheese frosting without a lot of added sugar provides a nice tang.
- Up the amount of cinnamon and other spices to add flavor without adding sugar.
70. Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
This recipe uses unfed sourdough discard for flavor, along with commercial yeast for the rise. It is a great way to use up your discard and make a delicious, tangy roll.
DIY Tips:
- The sourdough discard adds a wonderful, subtle tang and a moist texture.
- Since you are using commercial yeast, you do not have to wait for the long fermentation times of a traditional sourdough recipe.
- These are a fantastic introduction to baking with sourdough.
Conclusion
The journey of making cinnamon rolls from scratch is a rewarding one, a process that fills a home with an incomparable aroma and results in a treat that is the very definition of comfort. This collection is proof that whether you are a purist who loves a classic, an adventurous baker seeking new flavors, or someone with specific dietary needs, there is a perfect, bakery worthy cinnamon roll recipe waiting for you. So roll up your sleeves, trust in the magic of yeast and time, and get ready to create some truly irresistible memories.