There’s nothing quite like homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Caramel filling your kitchen with warm, sweet aroma. These Cinnamon Rolls with Caramel combine pillowy soft dough, a rich cinnamon sugar swirl, and a buttery caramel topping that melts into every curve of the roll. As they bake, the caramel bubbles and seeps into the edges, creating sticky, gooey perfection. Whether you’re serving them for a weekend brunch or a cozy dessert, these rolls deliver that bakery-style comfort that feels indulgent yet homemade.
Key Takeaways
- Ultra-soft, fluffy dough texture
- Rich cinnamon-sugar swirl
- Sticky, buttery caramel topping
- Perfect for brunch or dessert
- Make-ahead friendly option
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bakery-quality results at home
- Gooey centers and caramelized edges
- Classic sweet comfort flavor
- Perfect for holidays and gatherings
- Customizable with nuts or cream cheese
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm milk
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup melted butter
- ½ tsp salt
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 ½ tbsp ground cinnamon
- 3 tbsp softened butter
For the Caramel Topping:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Stand mixer (optional)
- Rolling pin
- Baking dish
- Saucepan
- Whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions
Activate Yeast
Combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Make the Dough
Mix flour, sugar, egg, melted butter, and salt. Knead until smooth and elastic. Let rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
Prepare Filling
Mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
Roll & Fill
Roll dough into a rectangle. Spread softened butter, then sprinkle cinnamon mixture evenly.
Shape Rolls
Roll tightly and slice into even pieces.
Prepare Caramel
In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar. Stir in cream and vanilla until smooth.
Assemble & Bake
Pour caramel into baking dish. Place rolls on top. Bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Tips & Variations
- Add chopped pecans for crunch
- Swap caramel for cream cheese glaze
- Prepare rolls the night before and refrigerate
- Use bread flour for extra fluffiness
- Warm slightly before serving for best texture
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cinnamon Rolls with Caramel warm with fresh coffee or a latte. They also pair beautifully with fresh fruit and scrambled eggs for a complete brunch spread. For dessert, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers covered at room temperature for one day or refrigerated for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave for 15–20 seconds to restore gooey texture. Rolls can be frozen before or after baking.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Dietary Tags: Vegetarian
FAQs
Can I make these overnight?
Yes, refrigerate shaped rolls and bake fresh in the morning.
Why are my rolls dense?
The dough may need more kneading or rising time.
Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, but homemade dough gives better texture.
Is the caramel very sweet?
It’s rich but balanced by the soft dough.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Rolls with Caramel are the ultimate sweet comfort bake. Soft, gooey, and dripping with buttery caramel, they bring warmth and indulgence to any table. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls guarantee smiles and second servings every time.