Easy Cinnamon Bun Recipe: Perfect Results in 90 Minutes

This easy cinnamon bun recipe delivers soft, fluffy homemade buns with a perfect cinnamon swirl and creamy icing in just 90 minutes. You'll need only 10 basic ingredients, one mixing bowl, and no special equipment. The foolproof method includes clear step-by-step instructions, visual cues for dough readiness, and professional baker tips to ensure success on your first try.

Creating bakery-quality cinnamon buns at home doesn't require professional skills or complicated techniques. This streamlined recipe eliminates common pitfalls that plague beginner bakers while preserving the authentic flavor and texture you expect from freshly baked cinnamon rolls. Whether you're preparing a special breakfast, brunch treat, or comforting dessert, these buns come together quickly with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

Why This Easy Cinnamon Bun Recipe Works

Many "simple" cinnamon roll recipes cut corners that compromise texture or flavor. This version maintains the essential elements of perfect cinnamon buns while removing unnecessary complexity. The secret lies in the balanced dough hydration, precise cinnamon-to-sugar ratio, and a foolproof proofing method that works in any kitchen environment.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Cinnamon Buns

Quality ingredients make the difference between good and great cinnamon buns. Don't substitute the core components - these specific items create the ideal texture and flavor profile.

Ingredient	Amount	Why It Matters
All-purpose flour	3 1/2 cups	Provides structure without toughness - measure correctly by spooning flour into measuring cup
Unsalted butter	1/2 cup, softened	Creates rich flavor and tender crumb - must be properly softened for even mixing
Granulated sugar	1/2 cup	Balances sweetness without overpowering - divided between dough and filling
Active dry yeast	2 1/4 teaspoons	Guarantees reliable rise - check expiration date for best results
Whole milk	1 cup, warm	Activates yeast properly at 110°F - critical for dough development
Ground cinnamon	3 tablespoons	Freshly ground provides superior flavor - avoid pre-mixed cinnamon sugar

Simple Equipment Requirements

You don't need specialty baking tools for this easy cinnamon bun recipe. Basic kitchen equipment suffices:

• Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
• Rolling pin (or clean wine bottle in a pinch)
• 9x13 inch baking pan
• Pastry brush (or clean fingers work too)
• Sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts

Step-by-Step Instructions for Foolproof Cinnamon Buns

Dough Preparation (15 minutes)

1. Warm milk to 110°F (use a thermometer - too hot kills yeast, too cold won't activate it)
2. Dissolve yeast and 1 tablespoon sugar in warm milk, let sit 5-7 minutes until foamy
3. Mix softened butter with remaining sugar until creamy
4. Combine yeast mixture with butter mixture, then gradually add flour and salt
5. Knead 5 minutes by hand (or 3 minutes with dough hook) until smooth and elastic
6. First rise: Cover bowl with damp cloth, let rest in warm spot for 45 minutes

Filling and Shaping (10 minutes)

7. Mix filling ingredients: 1/2 cup brown sugar + 3 tbsp cinnamon + 2 tbsp melted butter
8. Roll dough into 16x12 inch rectangle on floured surface
9. Evenly spread filling mixture, leaving 1/2 inch border around edges
10. Tightly roll dough from long side, pinch seam to seal
11. Cut into 12 equal pieces using sharp knife or unflavored dental floss
12. Place rolls cut-side down in greased baking pan

Baking and Finishing (25 minutes)

13. Second rise: Cover and let rest 20 minutes while preheating oven to 375°F
14. Bake 20-22 minutes until golden brown (internal temperature should reach 190°F)
15. Prepare icing: Mix 4 oz cream cheese, 1/4 cup butter, 1 cup powdered sugar, 1/2 tsp vanilla
16. Spread icing immediately over warm buns

Critical Success Tips for Easy Cinnamon Buns

• Dough temperature matters: Keep dough around 75-80°F during rising for optimal yeast activity
• Cut cleanly: Use dental floss to slice rolls without squishing the swirl pattern
• Don't overbake: Remove when tops are golden - they continue cooking on the pan
• Icing timing: Apply while buns are warm (not hot) for perfect absorption
• Storage: Keep in airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage

Troubleshooting Common Cinnamon Bun Problems

Even with this easy cinnamon bun recipe, issues can arise. Here's how to fix them:

• Dense buns: Usually caused by too much flour - measure by spooning flour into cup, not scooping
• Filling leaking out: Ensure you leave border around edges and seal the seam well
• Yeast not activating: Check milk temperature and yeast expiration date
• Buns spreading sideways: Dough may be too warm - let it rest in cooler spot

Simple Variations for Different Diets

This basic easy cinnamon roll recipe adapts well to various dietary needs:

• Gluten-free: Substitute with 1:1 gluten-free flour blend (add 1 tsp xanthan gum)
• Dairy-free: Use coconut oil instead of butter and almond milk instead of dairy
• Vegan: Combine dairy-free substitutions with flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water)
• Lower sugar: Reduce filling sugar by 25% and use cream cheese icing instead of powdered sugar

Why This Recipe Beats Store-Bought Options

Homemade cinnamon buns offer significant advantages over commercial versions. You control the ingredients, avoiding preservatives and artificial flavors. The texture of freshly baked buns can't be matched by frozen or packaged alternatives. Plus, the aroma filling your kitchen during baking creates an experience no store-bought product can replicate. This easy cinnamon bun recipe delivers professional results without professional skills - making it perfect for weekend baking or special occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this easy cinnamon bun recipe without a stand mixer?

Yes, this easy cinnamon roll recipe works perfectly with hand mixing. Combine ingredients in a large bowl, then knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should pass the windowpane test - stretch a small piece thin enough to see light through without tearing.

How do I prevent my cinnamon buns from becoming dry?

Dry cinnamon buns usually result from overbaking or incorrect flour measurement. Use a kitchen scale for precise flour measurement (440g for this recipe), or spoon flour into measuring cups without packing. Remove buns from oven when internal temperature reaches 190°F. Store cooled buns in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain moisture.

Can I prepare this cinnamon bun recipe the night before?

Yes, this make-ahead cinnamon roll method works well. After shaping the rolls in the pan, cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to take the chill off, then bake as directed. The slow cold fermentation actually enhances flavor development while saving morning preparation time.

What's the secret to getting perfect swirls in my cinnamon buns?

Tight rolling is essential for defined swirls. After spreading the filling, gently stretch the dough rectangle lengthwise before rolling. Roll firmly but not so tight that you compress the dough. When cutting, use unflavored dental floss - slide it under the roll, cross the ends, and pull upward for clean slices without squishing the layers.