A cosy December classic
Soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls are one of the most beloved December bakes, perfect for chilly mornings, holiday gatherings, or festive brunch spreads. Their warm cinnamon–brown sugar aroma instantly fills the home with the spirit of the season, making them a comforting treat during winter. Making them from scratch may seem intimidating, but with the right steps, anyone can create bakery-style cinnamon rolls right at home.
Start with the perfect dough: soft, enriched, and easy to knead
The base of any great cinnamon roll is a pillowy, enriched dough. To make it, combine warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast and let the mixture bloom. This step ensures your rolls rise beautifully. Add melted butter, eggs, flour, and a pinch of salt to create a soft, smooth dough. Knead until elastic—by hand or with a stand mixer—and allow it to rise for 1 to 2 hours.
The key to December-soft cinnamon rolls is a slightly sticky but workable dough. This helps them bake into cloud-like spirals rather than dense rolls.
Crafting the classic cinnamon filling
The soul of a cinnamon roll lies in its aromatic filling. Spread softened—not melted—butter over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle a mixture of brown sugar and ground cinnamon generously. Press the mixture lightly so it adheres well while rolling.
For extra warmth and flavour, you can add:
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a pinch of nutmeg
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a splash of vanilla
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a hint of orange zest for a festive twist
These additions elevate the rolls and make them perfect for December baking.
Shaping and rising: getting the spirals perfect
Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice it into even pieces—using dental floss or a sharp knife to keep the spirals neat. Arrange the rolls in a greased baking pan, leaving room for them to expand. Let them rise again for 30–45 minutes. This second rise ensures your cinnamon rolls turn out fluffy and tender once baked.
Bake at a moderate temperature until golden brown and soft to the touch. Overbaking can dry them out, so watch them closely during the final minutes.
Finish with a creamy glaze for a classic holiday touch
A smooth vanilla cream cheese icing is the classic topping for December cinnamon rolls. Blend softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until silky. Spread the glaze while the rolls are still warm so it melts into every layer.
For a festive twist, you can try:
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maple glaze
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orange-vanilla icing
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brown butter frosting
Each variation adds its own seasonal charm.
Why homemade cinnamon rolls are a December favourite
Making cinnamon rolls from scratch brings a sense of warmth and togetherness to December baking. The slow, unrushed process—mixing, kneading, rolling, rising—creates a cosy atmosphere that captures the heart of the holiday season. Sharing these soft, fragrant rolls with family and friends becomes a December tradition many look forward to each year.
