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Ina Garten Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

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.

Ingredients

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

  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.