Go Back
+ servings
Spanish Cinnamon Rolls

Best Spanish Cinnamon Rolls Recipe for Ultimate Homemade Indulgence

This Spanish Cinnamon Rolls recipe combines cozy cinnamon swirls with citrus and vanilla, creating a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
First Rise 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: Spanish
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 4 cups All-purpose flour Use a soft, finely milled flour for tender rolls.
  • 2 teaspoons Active dry yeast Helps the dough rise beautifully.
  • 1 cup Whole milk Warm, not hot, to activate the yeast.
  • 1/4 cup Granulated sugar Adds subtle sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted butter Melted and cooled, enriches the dough.
  • 2 large Eggs Brings structure and richness.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
Filling Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons Ground cinnamon The star spice for comfort.
  • 1/2 cup Brown sugar Adds deep caramel notes.
  • 1/4 cup Unsalted butter Softened for easy spreading.
  • 1 tablespoon Orange zest Adds a fresh citrus twist.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Rounds out the flavor profile.
Glaze Ingredients
  • 1 cup Powdered sugar For a smooth, sweet finish.
  • 2 tablespoons Whole milk or cream Adjust for desired glaze consistency.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Adds floral sweetness.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Rolling pin
  • Oven
  • baking pan

Method
 

Making the Dough
  1. Warm milk to 110°F, stir in yeast and a pinch of sugar, then let sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk flour, sugar, and salt, then add melted butter, eggs, and yeast mixture. Stir until the dough just comes together, about 2 minutes.
  3. Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic with a soft, slightly tacky texture.
  4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover loosely, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 1–1.5 hours.
Filling and Baking
  1. On a floured surface, roll dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly, then sprinkle brown sugar, cinnamon, orange zest, and vanilla.
  2. Tightly roll the dough from the long edge into a log. Cut into 12 even pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.
  3. Arrange rolls in a buttered 9-inch pan, spacing them lightly apart. Cover and let rest until puffy, about 30–45 minutes.
  4. Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Preparing the Glaze
  1. While baking, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust milk for a pourable consistency.
  2. Drizzle glaze over warm rolls, allowing it to seep into each swirl. Serve immediately for best texture.

Nutrition

Serving: 1rollCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 4gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Optional: Garnish with extra orange zest for a bright finish.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!