There’s something truly comforting about waking up to the warm aroma of cinnamon and sugar swirling through the air, especially during the holiday season. These Christmas Cinnamon Rolls have become my go-to festive treat—soft, fluffy, and bursting with just the right touch of spice and sweetness. What I love most is how surprisingly easy they are to make from scratch, yet they look and taste like something straight out of a bakery window. Perfect for a cozy family breakfast or a crowd-pleasing holiday brunch, these rolls bring that magical Christmas morning feeling right to your table. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a reason to skip the fast food this season, this recipe is sure to become a beloved tradition.
Why choose Christmas Cinnamon Rolls today?
Delightful aroma fills your kitchen with warm cinnamon and sweetness, instantly evoking holiday cheer. Easy to prepare, this recipe requires simple ingredients and baking skills, perfect for bakers of all levels. Soft, fluffy texture melts in your mouth, making every bite irresistible. Versatile and festive, they suit family breakfasts or brunch gatherings with friends. Plus, they’re a homemade alternative to fast food, bringing cozy comfort and festive magic to your holidays.
Christmas Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
- All-purpose flour – Use fresh flour for the best tender, fluffy base.
- Active dry yeast – Activates the rise that makes rolls soft and airy.
- Warm milk – Warming to about 110°F helps yeast bloom perfectly.
- Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and feeds the yeast for a good rise.
- Unsalted butter – Softened butter enriches dough with tender flakiness.
- Eggs – Provide structure and richness, keeping rolls soft inside.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavors.
For the Filling
- Brown sugar – Gives deep caramel notes that complement the cinnamon’s warmth.
- Ground cinnamon – The star spice delivering that classic Christmas Cinnamon Rolls flavor.
- Unsalted butter – Melted butter keeps the filling rich and gooey.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream cheese – Offers tangy richness that perfectly contrasts sweet rolls.
- Powdered sugar – Ensures a smooth, luscious frosting texture.
- Vanilla extract – Adds warm, inviting aroma to the glaze.
- Milk or cream – Adjust consistency to spread or drizzle just right.
How to Make Christmas Cinnamon Rolls
- Warm milk & proof yeast: Combine warm milk (110°F) with yeast and a pinch of sugar. Let sit 5–10 minutes until bubbly and fragrant.
- Mix dough: Whisk together flour, sugar, salt, eggs, butter, and activated yeast. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, ensuring no dry patches remain.
- Knead dough: Transfer dough onto a floured surface. Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky, creating that soft, fluffy roll texture.
- First rise: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, doubling in size.
- Roll dough: Punch down and roll dough into a 16×12-inch rectangle. Aim for even thickness to ensure uniform rolls.
For the Filling:
- Spread filling: Brush melted butter over dough, sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon evenly, leaving a ½-inch border for sealing.
- Roll & slice: Tightly roll dough from long edge, pinch seam to seal. Cut into 12 equal rolls using a sharp knife.
- Second rise: Arrange rolls in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Cover and let rise 30–45 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled.
- Bake rolls: Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake 25–30 minutes until tops are golden brown and centers are set.
For the Frosting:
- Beat frosting: In a bowl, whip cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth and creamy.
- Frost rolls: Spread or drizzle frosting over warm rolls. Allow frosting to melt slightly into swirls for an irresistible glaze.
Optional: sprinkle chopped pecans or festive red sugar crystals on top.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor the festive flavors without the morning rush! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe until the first rise, then wrap the dough tightly in plastic and refrigerate. On the day you want to enjoy them, let the dough come to room temperature, roll it out, and continue with the second rise before baking. If you prefer to freeze them, roll and slice the rolls, then freeze before the second rise. When you’re ready, bake straight from the freezer; they might need an extra 5-10 minutes in the oven. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade Christmas Cinnamon Rolls ready to warm your holiday mornings!
Christmas Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Feel free to add your own twist to these delightful rolls and make them uniquely yours!
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Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans into the cinnamon filling for added crunch and flavor depth. They create a lovely texture that complements the soft rolls perfectly.
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Chocolate Swirl: Drizzle melted chocolate over the filling for a decadent touch. The rich chocolate adds an indulgent layer that will make your rolls truly unforgettable.
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Fruit Infusion: Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins into the filling for a burst of fruity sweetness. This contrast balances the spice and makes each bite an exciting surprise.
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Maple Frosting: Swap cream cheese frosting for a maple glaze by mixing powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a splash of milk. This will bring a warm, inviting flavor that perfectly captures the essence of the holidays.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a subtle heat that elevates the flavor profile. This unexpected warmth can really elevate your traditional rolls.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute almond or coconut milk and use vegan butter for a dairy-free version. It’s easier than you think and still delivers delicious results.
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Caramel Drizzle: Pour warm caramel sauce over the frosted rolls for an extra indulgent treat. The gooey caramel adds a luxurious sweetness that your family will adore.
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Glazed Orange Zest: Mix fresh orange zest into the frosting for a bright, citrusy note that will enhance the overall flavor experience. This refreshing twist balances the richness of the rolls beautifully.
Tips for the Best Christmas Cinnamon Rolls
- Use fresh yeast: Always check your yeast’s expiration date to ensure a strong rise and fluffy texture in your Christmas Cinnamon Rolls.
- Warm liquids carefully: Keep milk and butter around 110°F; too hot can kill the yeast, too cold slows rising dramatically.
- Knead just right: Knead until smooth and elastic but avoid overworking dough to keep rolls soft and tender.
- Even filling spread: Distribute cinnamon sugar mixture evenly to avoid dry or overly sweet spots inside the rolls.
- Perfect roll slicing: Use a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts that keep rolls intact during baking.
- Frost while warm: Apply cream cheese frosting on warm rolls to achieve that signature melty, irresistible finish.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Cinnamon Rolls
Room Temperature: Store unfrosted rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If frosted, enjoy within 1 day for the best flavor and texture.
Fridge: Keep your Christmas Cinnamon Rolls in the fridge for up to 5 days. Tightly wrap or use a container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting.
Reheating: Rewarm chilled rolls in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to restore their delightful warmth.
What to Serve with Christmas Cinnamon Rolls?
Waking up to the sweet scent of cinnamon rolls is only made better with the perfect additions to your holiday breakfast spread.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet, sticky rolls, and brightens your breakfast table beautifully.
- Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon complements the sweet dough, creating a satisfying flavor balance that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
- Coffee or Hot Cocoa: A warm beverage enhances the cozy atmosphere. Serve with a rich cup of coffee or creamy hot cocoa for a perfect morning pick-me-up.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a fluffy texture and extra sweetness, which pairs wonderfully with each bite of your cinnamon rolls.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: Add a luxurious touch with a drizzle of maple syrup over the rolls, enhancing their sweetness and bringing a rustic charm to your feast.
- Egg Casserole: A savory dish like egg casserole provides hearty protein and rich flavors, offsetting the sweetness of the rolls and making it a well-rounded meal.
- Spiced Apple Compote: Warm spiced apples bring a comforting, fruity note that echoes the cinnamon in the rolls while adding another layer of holiday cheer.
- Hot Apple Cider: Serve a steaming cup of spiced apple cider beside your cinnamon rolls to evoke the warmth of the holiday season in every delicious sip.
Best Christmas Cinnamon Rolls Recipe for Irresistible Holiday Mornings Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my yeast is fresh enough for these Christmas Cinnamon Rolls?
Fresh yeast will activate quickly when mixed with warm milk and sugar, showing bubbles and foam within 5–10 minutes. Avoid yeast that’s past its expiration date or fails to foam, as it won’t leaven your rolls properly.
What’s the best way to store leftover Christmas Cinnamon Rolls?
Unfrosted rolls keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Once frosted, they’re best enjoyed within 24 hours, but you can refrigerate them up to 5 days wrapped tightly to preserve moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze Christmas Cinnamon Rolls, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! Freeze unfrosted rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm (about 2 hours). Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and keep frozen up to 3 months. When ready, thaw rolls overnight in the fridge, warm briefly in the oven, and frost before serving for that fresh-baked magic.
What if my dough isn’t rising as expected?
It’s usually because the liquid temperature was incorrect or the environment is too cold. Ensure milk is around 110°F—not hotter, not cooler—and place the dough in a warm, draft-free spot. If your kitchen is chilly, you can preheat your oven to 200°F for 2 minutes, turn it off, and let the dough rise inside with the door slightly ajar.
Are Christmas Cinnamon Rolls safe for pets or people with dietary restrictions?
These rolls contain common allergens like gluten, dairy, and eggs, so they’re not safe for pets or those with intolerances to these ingredients. If you’re baking for someone with allergies, I recommend exploring specific gluten-free or vegan cinnamon roll recipes tailored to their needs.
Best Christmas Cinnamon Rolls Recipe for Irresistible Holiday Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine warm milk (110°F) with yeast and a pinch of sugar. Let sit 5–10 minutes until bubbly and fragrant.
- Whisk together flour, sugar, salt, eggs, butter, and activated yeast. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, ensuring no dry patches remain.
- Transfer dough onto a floured surface. Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky, creating that soft, fluffy roll texture.
- Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, doubling in size.
- Punch down and roll dough into a 16×12-inch rectangle. Aim for even thickness to ensure uniform rolls.
- Brush melted butter over dough, sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon evenly, leaving a ½-inch border for sealing.
- Tightly roll dough from long edge, pinch seam to seal. Cut into 12 equal rolls using a sharp knife.
- Arrange rolls in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Cover and let rise 30–45 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake 25–30 minutes until tops are golden brown and centers are set.
- In a bowl, whip cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth and creamy.
- Spread or drizzle frosting over warm rolls. Allow frosting to melt slightly into swirls for an irresistible glaze.
