Carter Cinnamon Roll Recipe for Soft, Fluffy Rolls

Cinnamon rolls are a classic comfort treat, loved by many for their soft, fluffy texture and rich, gooey cinnamon filling. The Carter Cinnamon Roll recipe takes this beloved pastry to the next level with a perfectly balanced dough and a luscious cream cheese glaze that melts in your mouth.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or craving a cozy weekend breakfast, this recipe offers an irresistible homemade delight that’s both approachable and impressive.

With simple ingredients and clear instructions, even beginners can master these rolls and impress family and friends. The aroma of cinnamon and vanilla wafting through your kitchen will be just the beginning of a wonderful baking experience.

Get ready to create warm, soft, and utterly delicious cinnamon rolls that will quickly become a household favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out because of its soft, airy dough that’s enriched with just the right amount of sweetness and spice. Unlike store-bought versions, these cinnamon rolls are made from scratch, ensuring fresh, quality ingredients in every bite.

The filling combines brown sugar and cinnamon for that classic taste, while the cream cheese glaze adds a rich, tangy finish that perfectly complements the warm spices. Plus, the recipe includes tips for making the dough light and fluffy, so you don’t end up with dense rolls.

Whether you bake these for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they’re always a hit. And if you love baking, check out our Clementine Bakery Vegan Recipes for Delicious Treats for more inspiring sweet ideas.

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed (for filling)
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened (for glaze)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for glaze)
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt (for glaze)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional but helpful)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Plastic wrap or kitchen towel
• Small mixing bowl (for glaze)
• Spatula or spoon
• Sharp knife or dental floss (for slicing rolls)

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active.
2. Make the dough: Add the melted butter, salt, and eggs to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in the flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. First rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside. Also, have the softened butter ready for spreading.
5. Roll out the dough: Once the dough has doubled, punch it down lightly and turn it onto a floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll it into a 16×12 inch rectangle.
6. Add the filling: Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough rectangle. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the butter, covering all the way to the edges.
7. Form the rolls: Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough up tightly into a log. Pinch the seams to seal. Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the log into 12 equal rolls.
8. Second rise: Place the rolls cut side up into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover with a towel and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
9. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
10. Make the glaze: While the rolls bake, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.
11. Glaze and serve: Once rolls are out of the oven, allow them to cool slightly for 10 minutes. Spread the cream cheese glaze generously over the warm rolls and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Tip: For extra fluffy rolls, make sure your milk isn’t too hot when activating the yeast; it should feel warm to the touch, not scalding.

You can swap out the classic cinnamon filling for a pecan and brown sugar mix or even try apple cinnamon by adding finely chopped apples to the filling. For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives.

If you want to experiment, try adding cardamom or nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar mix for a spiced twist.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cinnamon rolls warm for the best experience. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a cold glass of milk.

For an indulgent brunch, add fresh fruit and scrambled eggs on the side.

Want to switch things up? Try spreading a little peanut butter or almond butter on a warm roll for a nutty twist.

These rolls also freeze well, so you can make a batch ahead and enjoy fresh cinnamon rolls whenever the craving strikes.

For more quick and delicious bread recipes, be sure to check out our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious.

Conclusion

The Carter Cinnamon Roll recipe is a delightful way to bring warmth and sweetness into your kitchen. With its soft, fluffy dough and rich, cinnamon-spiced filling topped with a creamy glaze, it’s the perfect treat for any time of day.

The straightforward steps and accessible ingredients make it a great choice for bakers of all levels.

Once you’ve made these rolls, you might find yourself eager to explore more homemade baked goods and comforting recipes. Don’t forget to explore other delicious ideas like Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping or our Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide for wholesome meal inspirations.

Enjoy baking and savor every bite of these heavenly cinnamon rolls!

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