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A tray of soft Easter cinnamon rolls topped with pink and yellow pastel cream cheese frosting.
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Easter Cinnamon Rolls

Prep Time2 hours 30 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time2 hours 55 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 380kcal

Ingredients

  • 4 cups all -purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet (2.25 tsp) instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sal t
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F (43°C)
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg , room temperature
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 2.5 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1.5 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 drops pastel food coloring (optional)

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, combine warm milk, melted butter, sugar, and yeast. Whisk in the egg until combined.
  • Add 4 cups of flour and salt. Mix with a dough hook or by hand until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 60 to 90 minutes or until doubled in size.
  • Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll into a 12x18 inch rectangle.
  • Spread 1/3 cup softened butter over the dough. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the butter.
  • Roll the dough tightly from the long edge to form a log. Cut into 12 even slices using a serrated knife or dental floss.
  • Place rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Cover and let rise for another 30 to 45 minutes.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
  • While rolls bake, beat cream cheese, 1/4 cup butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. If desired, divide frosting and tint with pastel food coloring.
  • Spread the frosting over the cinnamon rolls while they are still warm but not hot.