Easy Caramel Cinnamon Rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Caramel Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect combination of fluffy dough, sweet cinnamon filling, and a rich, gooey caramel topping. These rolls come together with minimal effort and deliver bakery-style results at home. Whether you’re making them for a weekend breakfast, holiday brunch, or a cozy dessert, they’re guaranteed to impress with their warm, buttery sweetness.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flouractive dry yeastwarm milksugarbuttersaltlarge eggsbrown sugarground cinnamoncorn syrupheavy creamsweetened condensed milkvanilla extract

directions

In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk and let sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, butter, eggs, and the yeast mixture. Knead until a smooth dough forms.

Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Prepare the caramel by heating butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, condensed milk, and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until smooth and thickened. Pour into a greased baking dish.

Roll out the risen dough into a rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface, then sprinkle with a mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon.

Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into even rolls.

Place the rolls cut-side down over the caramel layer in the baking dish. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.

Let the rolls cool slightly, then carefully invert onto a serving tray so the caramel is on top.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 rolls.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
First rise: 1 hour
Second rise: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the caramel layer for added crunch.
Swap the cinnamon filling with a pumpkin spice blend for a fall twist.
Drizzle cream cheese frosting over the top for an extra decadent finish.
Use pre-made dough for a quicker version.

storage/reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
To reheat, microwave individual rolls for 20–30 seconds or warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes.
These rolls can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I make these rolls the night before?

Yes, assemble them and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise before baking.

Can I use instant yeast?

Yes, but skip the proofing step and mix it directly into the dry ingredients.

Why did my caramel harden?

If overcooked, caramel can get too thick. Make sure to cook it just until smooth and pourable.

Can I make this without eggs?

Yes, use an egg substitute like flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer for similar results.

Are these rolls overly sweet?

They are rich and sweet, but the balance of dough, cinnamon, and caramel keeps them from being overwhelming.

How do I know when the dough is kneaded enough?

The dough should be smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky.

Do I need a stand mixer?

No, but a stand mixer with a dough hook makes the kneading process easier.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger pan or two pans to accommodate the rolls.

Do I have to invert the rolls?

Yes, for that signature sticky caramel topping, flipping is essential.

Can I skip the caramel?

You can, but you’ll miss out on the rich flavor and gooey texture.

Conclusion

Easy Caramel Cinnamon Rolls offer all the satisfaction of homemade pastry without the hassle. With their soft, cinnamon-swirled centers and luscious caramel topping, they’re a sweet indulgence worth every minute. Perfect for sharing—if you’re willing!

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