Ina Garten Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Ina Garten’s Cinnamon Rolls are a decadent, buttery treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special occasion. These rolls feature soft, fluffy dough, a sweet and spiced cinnamon filling, and a luscious cream cheese glaze that makes them absolutely irresistible.

What are Ina Garten Cinnamon Rolls?

Cinnamon rolls are a classic baked pastry made with enriched dough rolled around a cinnamon-sugar filling. Ina Garten’s version takes this timeless treat to a whole new level with a rich, buttery dough and a perfectly balanced glaze that’s neither too sweet nor overpowering.

Reasons to Try Ina Garten Cinnamon Rolls

• Soft and Fluffy Texture: The enriched dough creates tender, melt-in-your-mouth rolls.
• Perfectly Spiced: The cinnamon-sugar filling is warm and comforting.
• Indulgent Glaze: Cream cheese frosting adds the perfect finishing touch.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the night before and bake fresh in the morning.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Cinnamon Rolls

For the Dough

• Whole milk – 1 cup, warmed (about 110°F)
• Active dry yeast – 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp)
• Granulated sugar – ⅓ cup
• Unsalted butter – 4 tbsp, melted
• Eggs – 2 large, room temperature
• All-purpose flour – 4 cups (plus more for dusting)
• Salt – 1 tsp

For the Cinnamon Filling

• Unsalted butter – 4 tbsp, softened
• Brown sugar – ¾ cup, packed
• Ground cinnamon – 1 tbsp
• Ground nutmeg – ¼ tsp (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

• Cream cheese – 4 oz, softened
• Unsalted butter – 4 tbsp, softened
• Powdered sugar – 1 cup
• Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
• Milk – 2-3 tbsp (as needed for consistency)

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Cinnamon Rolls

1. Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until bubbly. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, eggs, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and stir until combined. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
3. Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
4. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle about 16×12 inches. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough and sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
5. Shape the Rolls: Starting from the longer side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the edges to seal. Slice into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.
6. Arrange and Let Rise: Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
7. Bake the Rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly.
8. Make the Glaze: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk (as needed) and mix until creamy.
9. Frost and Serve: Spread the glaze generously over the warm rolls and serve immediately.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Cinnamon Rolls?

• Hot Coffee or Tea: The perfect beverage pairing for these sweet rolls.
• Fresh Fruit: Adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
• Bacon or Sausage: Balances the sweetness with savory notes.
• Yogurt Parfait: A light, complementary side dish.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Cinnamon Rolls

• Use Warm Milk: Ensure the milk is between 105-110°F to activate the yeast properly.
• Let Dough Rise Fully: Give the dough enough time to double in size for fluffy rolls.
• Cut Rolls Cleanly: Use unflavored dental floss for precise slices without squishing the dough.
• Don’t Overbake: Check the rolls at 25 minutes to prevent drying out.
• Spread the Glaze on Warm Rolls: This helps the frosting melt slightly for a luscious finish.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Cinnamon Rolls

• Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts in the filling for extra texture.
• Include Raisins: Add raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity twist.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or cardamom for a unique flavor profile.
• Drizzle with Caramel: Top the finished rolls with caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
• Use Maple Glaze: Substitute the vanilla glaze with a maple-flavored frosting.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Cinnamon Rolls

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for Later: Freeze baked rolls (without glaze) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before glazing.
• Reheat Gently: Warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) or in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.

Nutrition Value

• Calories: ~350 per roll
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fats: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 25g

FAQs

Can Cinnamon Rolls Be Made Ahead of Time?

Yes, cinnamon rolls are perfect for making ahead. Assemble the rolls and place them in the baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature and rise for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.

How Do You Keep Cinnamon Rolls Soft and Moist?

To keep cinnamon rolls soft and moist, avoid overbaking them. Bake just until golden brown and check for doneness around 25 minutes. After baking, store them in an airtight container to retain moisture. Adding a generous amount of glaze while the rolls are warm also helps seal in softness.

Can You Freeze Cinnamon Rolls?

Yes, cinnamon rolls can be frozen. Freeze them after baking and cooling, but before adding the glaze. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, warm in the oven, and glaze before serving.

What Is the Best Way to Reheat Cinnamon Rolls?

The best way to reheat cinnamon rolls is in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. For a quicker option, microwave individual rolls for 15-20 seconds, but be careful not to overheat them.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate indulgence, perfect for breakfast or brunch. Their soft, pillowy texture and warm cinnamon flavor, combined with the decadent cream cheese glaze, make them a treat to remember.

Try this recipe and savor every bite!

More Ina Garten Recipe

• Ina Garten Breakfast Strata
• Ina Garten Apple Muffins
• Barefoot Contessa Baked French Toast Casserole
• Barefoot Contessa Tea Sandwiches

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