Quick Cinnamon Rolls Recipe in 30 Minutes (No Yeast Needed)

The fastest way to make delicious cinnamon rolls in under 30 minutes uses a baking powder-based dough instead of traditional yeast. This quick cinnamon rolls recipe yields soft, fluffy rolls with a perfect cinnamon swirl and creamy icing - no waiting for dough to rise required. You'll need basic pantry ingredients and just one bowl for mixing.

Why This Quick Cinnamon Rolls Recipe Actually Works

Traditional cinnamon rolls require hours for dough to rise, but this recipe delivers authentic flavor and texture in a fraction of the time. The secret? Using baking powder and buttermilk creates immediate lift without yeast, while keeping that signature soft, pull-apart texture. Professional bakers confirm this chemical leavening method produces reliable results for time-pressed home cooks.

What Makes These Truly Quick Cinnamon Rolls

Many "quick" cinnamon roll recipes still require 1-2 hours of rising time. Our tested method eliminates this wait through smart ingredient substitutions while maintaining quality. The key differences in this 30-minute cinnamon rolls recipe no yeast approach:

Traditional Rolls	Our Quick Version
Requires 2+ hours rising time	No rising time needed
Yeast-based dough	Baking powder/buttermilk reaction
Multiple proofing stages	One-bowl preparation
Specialized equipment often needed	Basic kitchen tools only

Ingredients for Quick Cinnamon Rolls

This easy quick cinnamon rolls recipe with canned dough alternative uses standard pantry items. All measurements are precise for consistent results:

Dough

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg

Filling

• 1/4 cup softened butter
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Cream Cheese Icing

• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions for Best Results

Follow these precise steps for perfect quick cinnamon rolls ready in 30 minutes. Temperature control is critical for success with this no-yeast method.

1. Prepare dough: In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt and sugar. Cut in cold butter using pastry cutter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Mix wet ingredients: In separate bowl, whisk buttermilk and egg. Pour into flour mixture and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
3. Roll dough: Turn dough onto floured surface and gently roll into 12x9 inch rectangle (1/4 inch thick).
4. Apply filling: Spread softened butter evenly over dough, then sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon mixture.
5. Roll and cut: Starting from long side, roll dough tightly. Cut into 9 equal pieces using dental floss for clean slices.
6. Bake: Place rolls in greased 9x13 inch pan. Bake at 400°F for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
7. Make icing: While rolls bake, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk and vanilla until smooth.
8. Finish: Drizzle warm rolls with icing and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Perfect Quick Cinnamon Rolls

Avoid these common mistakes when making fast cinnamon rolls without yeast:

• Butter temperature matters: Use cold butter for dough, softened for filling. This creates proper texture layers.
• Don't overwork dough: Mix until just combined - overmixing makes rolls tough.
• Cut with dental floss: Gives cleaner slices than a knife, preventing squished rolls.
• Bake immediately: Chemical leaveners start working as soon as wet/dry ingredients combine.
• Use fresh baking powder: Old leavener won't provide proper rise (test by adding to hot water - should bubble vigorously).

Storage and Reheating Instructions

These quick cinnamon rolls that don't need rising are best served fresh, but can be stored:

• Room temperature: Keep in airtight container for up to 2 days
• Refrigerator: Store for up to 5 days (reheat before serving)
• Freezer: Wrap individual rolls in plastic, then foil. Freeze up to 3 months.

For best reheating results: Microwave single roll for 15-20 seconds, or warm in 300°F oven for 8-10 minutes. Add fresh icing after reheating.

Delicious Variations to Try

Customize this quick and easy cinnamon rolls recipe for beginners with these simple twists:

• Nutty version: Add 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts to filling
• Apple cinnamon: Layer 1/4 cup finely diced apples over butter before adding sugar
• Orange zest: Add 1 tablespoon orange zest to dough for citrus notes
• Gluten-free: Substitute 1:1 gluten-free flour blend (add 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum)
• Vegan option: Use plant-based butter and buttermilk substitute (1 cup almond milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with this foolproof quick cinnamon rolls recipe, you might encounter these issues:

• Dense rolls: Usually caused by overmixing dough or old baking powder. Measure flour correctly (spoon and level, don't scoop).
• Falling apart: Dough was too warm when rolling. Chill dough for 10 minutes before rolling if kitchen is warm.
• Burnt bottoms: Place baking pan on middle rack, not bottom third of oven. Use light-colored metal pan.
• Runny icing: Too much milk. Add powdered sugar 1 tablespoon at a time until desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make quick cinnamon rolls without buttermilk?

Yes, create a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice to 3/4 cup regular milk. Let sit 5 minutes before using. The acid reacts with baking powder for proper rise in this no-yeast quick cinnamon rolls recipe.

Why are my quick cinnamon rolls dry?

Dry rolls typically result from overbaking or too much flour. Measure flour correctly by spooning into measuring cup and leveling (don't scoop). Check rolls at 15 minutes - they're done when internal temperature reaches 190°F. The baking time for quick cinnamon rolls without yeast is shorter than traditional versions.

Can I prepare quick cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Yes, assemble rolls but don't bake. Cover tightly and refrigerate up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from fridge 20 minutes before baking, then follow regular baking instructions. This make-ahead method works well for quick cinnamon rolls with no yeast since there's no rising time to manage.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

To keep filling contained in your quick cinnamon rolls ready in 30 minutes, leave a 1/2 inch border along one long edge when spreading filling. Roll tightly starting from the opposite edge, and pinch the seam closed. Chilling the rolled dough for 10 minutes before cutting also helps prevent leakage.