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    Home / Recipes / Desserts

    Small Batch Cinnamon Rolls

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Jan 20, 2023 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    Jump to Recipe
    small batch cinnamon rolls with text.
    small batch cinnamon rolls with text.

    For a cozy morning treat, give this small-batch cinnamon rolls recipe a try. The sweet rolls are made with only a few simple ingredients and take minimal effort to create.

    Small-batch cinnamon rolls in pan.

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    When you bake these homemade cinnamon buns, your house will be filled with a wonderful aroma. But the best part is biting into a fresh one from the oven. The taste is sweet and indulgent and sure to satisfy.

    These classic rolls are topped with cream cheese frosting which adds an extra layer of decadence that can’t be beaten. Each bite of these light and fluffy pastries will leave your mouth watering for more.

    Although these cinnamon rolls are absolutely delicious, you won't have to worry about overeating. This recipe makes just four rolls so that you can enjoy the deliciousness without making an entire pan full.

    Ingredients

    To create these tasty treats, all you need is some common baking ingredients. You may even have everything in your kitchen.

    ingredients for cinnamon rolls.

    To make this small batch of cinnamon rolls, you will need to have the following on hand:

    • Milk
    • Active dry yeast
    • Granulated sugar
    • Brown sugar
    • Powdered sugar
    • All-purpose flour
    • Butter (both salted and unsalted)
    • Cinnamon
    • Cream cheese
    • Vanilla extract
    • Salt

    Scroll down to the recipe card for the amounts needed.

    Instructions

    You don't need to be an experienced baker to make this easy cinnamon roll recipe. The process is super easy. Simply prepare the cinnamon roll dough, roll it out, sprinkle a sweet cinnamon mixture on top, roll it into a log, then cut into rolls. That's it!

    If you need more details, check out the step-by-step directions below.

    yeast milk and sugar mixture.

    Add yeast, warm milk, and a pinch of sugar to a small bowl. Allow it to sit for five minutes.

    flour and yeast mixture with butter in bowl.

    Whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt in a medium bowl. Add yeast mixture and melted butter.

    dough ball before rising.

    Knead into a dough then form into a ball.

    dough ball after rising.

    Cover and let dough rise in a warm place to double in size.

    brown sugar and cinnamon in small bowl.

    While the cinnamon roll dough is rising, make the filling by mixing brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.

    rolled out dough in long rectangular shape.

    Roll the prepared dough into a rectangle

    cinnamon mixture over rolled dough.

    Brush on softened butter and sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly over the top.

    unbaked cinnamon rolls in baking pan.

    Roll the dough into a log shape. Cut into 4 equal rolls and bake.

    icing ingredients in mixing bowl.

    Add cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to a mixing bowl.

    cinnamon roll icing in mixing bowl.

    Whisk the ingredients together to make the cream cheese icing.

    icing the baked cinnamon rolls in pan.

    Remove the rolls from the oven and spread the icing over them.

    The cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed warm with the melty cream cheese frosting drizzling down the sides.

    Variations

    There are many ways to vary a cinnamon roll recipe. Here's a few suggestions:

    • Use different types of flour. Replacing all-purpose flour with whole wheat or almond flour will change the texture and nutritional profile of the rolls
    • Adjust the amount of sugar and cinnamon in the filling. Experiment with the amounts of cinnamon and sugar used to suit your taste preferences
    • Add different types of nuts or dried fruit to the filling. This will give the rolls added flavor and texture
    • Try different types of liquid in the dough. Using a non-dairy milk or juice can change the flavor and sweetness of the dough.
    • Change the fat in the dough. Try a non-dairy fat like coconut oil or shortening to change the flavor and texture.
    • Experiment with different glazes or frostings. Spreading on maple icing with bacon pieces is a delicious way to change the topping!
    • Add an extract to the dough or frosting. Vanilla or almond extract are flavors that go well with the cinnamon filling.

    There are many variations you could make to the recipe so go ahead and customize it to your liking.

    Tips

    Here are some tips for making homemade cinnamon rolls:

    • Use room temperature ingredients, particularly for the dough, to ensure that everything mixes together evenly and rises properly.
    • Be sure to knead the dough for the appropriate amount of time, as this helps to develop the gluten and create a smooth, elastic dough.
    • Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place until it has doubled in size. This can be done by preheating your oven to 200°F, turning it off and then keeping the dough inside the oven.
    • Roll out the dough into a large, even rectangle before adding the filling to ensure that the rolls will be uniform in size and shape.
    • Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into rolls, as this will help them retain their shape during baking.
    • Allow the rolls to rise for a second time after cutting them, this will help them to puff up and become more tender.
    • Bake the rolls in a preheated oven, and keep an eye on them so that they do not over bake
    • Apply any glaze or frosting when the rolls are still warm, it will be easier to spread and will adhere better to the rolls.

    Additionally, you'll want to plan ahead because the dough will need time to rise.

    three cinnamon rolls on a cutting board.

    Serving suggestions

    Cinnamon rolls go well with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a quick breakfast or brunch treat. Add a side of bacon or baked sausage for a more substantial meal. Or add them to sweets table for brunch with similar items like crescent roll cheesecake bars.

    You can also turn them into a dessert by adding whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Or add some fruit like sliced apple, berries, or a banana.

    Storage

    If stored properly, the cinnamon rolls will retain their quality and you'll be able to enjoy the leftovers for a few days. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 to 3 days.

    The rolls will keep in the refrigerator for up to a week if placed in an airtight container. Just heat them up in the microwave or oven before serving to bring them back to their original texture and taste.

    The rolls can also be frozen by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap, then placing them in a resealable plastic bag. Frozen cinnamon rolls will last for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature or heat them up in the oven or microwave before serving.

    FAQ

    How long will it take to make a batch of cinnamon rolls?

    It depends on the recipe and how many you are making. Generally, it takes about an hour to prepare the dough, let it rise, roll out the dough, spread it with filling, and cut it into rolls. Then they need to bake for another 20-25 minutes. So in total, it should take around 1 - 1.5 hours to make a batch of cinnamon rolls.

    What kind of ingredients do I need to make cinnamon rolls?

    To make cinnamon rolls, you'll generally need all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, granulated sugar, salt, butter, milk, and ground cinnamon. You'll also need a rolling pin and a greased baking pan.

    cinnamon rolls on board with one sliced in half.

    Related Recipes

    If you love this easy small-batch cinnamon rolls recipe, you may like these other sweet breakfast recipes too.

    • Cookie dough overnight oats is a delicious way to start your day with a nutritious and satisfying meal.
    • Mini banana bread is a classic that never goes out of style.
    • Sheet pan pancakes are the perfect solution for busy mornings.
    • Waffle recipe for one won't leave you with tons of leftovers.

    Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest to see more recipes.

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    Recipe

    small batch cinnamon rolls in baking pan.
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe Review Recipe

    Small Batch Cinnamon Rolls

    4.97 from 56 votes
    For a cozy morning treat, give this easy small-batch cinnamon rolls recipe a try. The delicious sweet rolls take minimal effort to create.
    Prep Time10 minutes mins
    Cook Time15 minutes mins
    Rest Time50 minutes mins
    Total Time1 hour hr 15 minutes mins
    Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine: American
    Diet: Vegetarian
    Servings (Adjustable): 4
    Calories: 596kcal
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    Ingredients

    Cinnamon roll

    • 5 tablespoons warm milk 105-115°F
    • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
    • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • ¼ teaspoon salt
    • 3 tablespoons butter melted

    Filling

    • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
    • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • 2 tablespoons butter softened

    Cream cheese frosting

    • 3- oz cream cheese softened
    • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
    • 1 cup powdered sugar
    • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
    • Pinch salt exclude if using salted butter
    US Customary - Metric

    Instructions

    • Start making the dough by adding yeast, warm milk, and a pinch of sugar to a small bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
    • In a medium bowl or mixer bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and 3 tablespoons of melted butter. Knead with a dough hook attached for 5 minutes or with your hands. Add a little more flour if needed. The dough should be soft and not overly sticky.
    • Form a ball and transfer it to a greased medium bowl to rise. Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and leave to rise in a warm place to double the size for 30 minutes.
    • In the meantime, make the filling by mixing brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.
    • Grease a small square or rectangular baking dish.
    • Once the dough has risen, lightly flour a work surface and roll the dough into a rectangle about 5x10 inches. Brush the softened butter and sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly.
    • Roll the dough gently with your hands tightly into a log shape. Cut with a sharp knife into 4 equal rolls. Transfer the rolls to the prepared baking dish
    • Let it sit for another 20 minutes to rise.
    • Preheat the oven to 400°F.
    • Bake for 12 to 14 minutes until lightly browned.
    • Prepare the icing by whisking cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract and a pinch of salt until smooth.
    • Remove the rolls from the oven and spread the icing on top.
    • Serve immediately.

    Notes

    Use room temperature ingredients, particularly for the dough, to ensure that everything mixes together evenly and rises properly.
    Be sure to knead the dough for the appropriate amount of time, as this helps to develop the gluten and create a smooth, elastic dough.
    Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place until it has doubled in size. This can be done by preheating your oven to 200°F, turning it off and then keeping the dough inside the oven.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1roll | Calories: 596kcal | Carbohydrates: 71g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 31g | Saturated Fat: 19g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 84mg | Sodium: 337mg | Potassium: 157mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 43g | Vitamin A: 1017IU | Vitamin C: 0.04mg | Calcium: 62mg | Iron: 2mg

    © LittleBitRecipes.com - All content and photographs are copyright protected by us. We appreciate sharing our recipes; but copying, pasting, or duplicating full recipes to any social media, website, or electronic/printed media is strictly prohibited and a violation of our copyrights. Single photos may be used, provided that full credit is given to us along with a link back to the original content.

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    About Lisa MarcAurele

    Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa is also a co-founder of Daily Life Travels, where you can discover new places to visit and things to do. You can sign up for her recipe emails to see all her latest content.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

      4.97 from 56 votes (50 ratings without comment)

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      Recipe Rating




    1. Traci

      January 20, 2023 at 10:52 am

      5 stars
      I fell in love with these rolls! I tried using cup4cup gluten free flour for my batch and had pretty decent results. The kids batch turned out wonderful when I followed your exact recipe and directions. Amazing rolls that we were all able to enjoy!

      Reply
    2. Vladka

      January 20, 2023 at 1:43 pm

      5 stars
      I used more cinnamon and less sugar than in the recipe card, and it was delicious. I like the small batch. Going to make it again.

      Reply
    3. Emily

      January 20, 2023 at 3:41 pm

      5 stars
      Yes to this!!! It turned out just how I wanted it to be!

      Reply
    4. Erin

      January 20, 2023 at 3:41 pm

      5 stars
      I love that your recipe doesn't end up with me weighing 5 pounds heavier two days later, so I made it straight away. 😆 They were excellent and reheated wonderfully! Thanks.

      Reply
    5. Karen Kelly

      January 20, 2023 at 6:24 pm

      5 stars
      I made this for the hubby and I because, honestly I didn't want a bunch of leftovers! They were delicious, and the recipe is easy to follow. Thank you!

      Reply
    6. jacqui christiance

      February 01, 2023 at 5:36 pm

      I can't wait to make these cinnamon rolls, this weekend for sure. Then I saw some of the other recipes available...I'm now a subscriber. I always make too much food and like many other parents without kids at home, I don't know what to do with it after 3 meals of it. now I 'm going to try to make much less. Thank you for showing up today. jacqui c

      Reply
      • Lisa MarcAurele

        February 02, 2023 at 8:57 am

        After throwing out so much food, I began downsizing my cooking and baking a few years ago after my older two kids moved into their own homes. I hope these small-batch recipes will help you too.

        Reply
    7. Tere

      June 14, 2023 at 10:45 pm

      What suggestions for high altitude over 6800ft? I haven't tried baking at this altitude other than cake mixes and they usually have you add extra flour and water and sometimes oil. I bake bread but that is down on the desert floor in Arizona not up in the Mountains!

      Reply
      • Lisa MarcAurele

        June 15, 2023 at 9:57 am

        I've never tested this recipe at a higher altitude but I would follow the same suggestions for yeast bread. You may want to decrease the yeast a little and bake it above a baking pan with boiling water to increase the moisture. Since dough rises faster at higher elevations, you can decrease the rise time to allow 1.5 times size instead of a doubling. You can also try decreasing the flour a little if needed.

        Reply
    8. Chris Heffernan

      October 08, 2023 at 1:52 pm

      3 stars
      I am retired and a novice baker so I'm not sure what I did wrong but once all ingredients for dough were mixing in my mixer bowl I could not get the dough to come together. The ingredients stayed crumbly looking until I added water to the dough ingredients and then it came together and I was able to knead the dough. I baked them up according to the recipe and the cinnamon rolls came out looking and tasting good. I live at just under 8,000 feet in altitude but don't see how that would affect the dough so any suggestions would be appreciated.

      Reply
      • Lisa MarcAurele

        October 08, 2023 at 8:23 pm

        Sometimes, it's hard to get good flour measurements using volume. It's usually better to weigh the flour out so that's likely why you needed more liquid.

        Reply
    9. KAREN RUSSELL OAKLAND

      November 23, 2024 at 6:39 am

      YUMMY 4 MY TUMMY==I'm drooling over the apple pie cookies & I think I have one apple left.

      Reply

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