There’s something incredibly comforting about the scent of freshly baked Brioche Cinnamon Rolls wafting through the house, isn’t there? The moment I pull these beauties from the oven, the warm swirls of cinnamon sugar and soft, fluffy dough invite everyone to gather in the kitchen, ready to indulge in a bite of pure happiness. Whether you’re enjoying them as a cozy breakfast on a lazy Sunday or serving them at a family gathering, these rolls are destined to impress.
What sets this recipe apart is its foundation in Sicilian Brioche dough, creating a tender, pillowy texture that’s simply irresistible. Topped with a luscious cream cheese icing, these rolls marry rich flavor with easy baking techniques, making them accessible for both seasoned chefs and kitchen novices alike. And let’s not forget the versatility—feel free to swap in your favorite mix-ins or adjust the spices to suit your taste! Trust me, once you’ve mastered these Brioche Cinnamon Rolls, they’ll become a cherished staple in your home.
Why are Brioche Cinnamon Rolls irresistible?
Comforting aroma: The scent of freshly baked cinnamon rolls fills your kitchen with warmth and happiness that brings everyone together.
Melt-in-your-mouth texture: Thanks to the Sicilian Brioche dough, these rolls are incredibly soft and fluffy, elevating your baking game to a whole new level.
Easily customizable: Want to add a personal touch? Throw in your favorite nuts, raisins, or even swap out the spices for a twist!
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a lazy Sunday brunch or a festive family gathering, these rolls are sure to impress your guests.
Quick and simple: With straightforward steps, both beginners and experienced bakers will love how easy these are to whip up in no time!
Brioche Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
• Discover the base for these delightful rolls!
- Sicilian Brioche dough – This rich dough creates a soft and airy texture, perfect for achieving that irresistible brioche cinnamon rolls experience.
- Unsalted butter (¼ cup, melted) – Adds moisture and enhances the flavor; feel free to substitute with margarine to keep it dairy-free.
- Brown sugar (½ cup) – Sweetens the filling and promotes caramelization; you can opt for coconut sugar as a refined sugar alternative.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon, adjust to taste) – This spice is the star of the show; consider mixing in nutmeg or a spice blend for a unique twist.
- Cream cheese (¼ cup, at room temperature) – Gives your icing a creamy, tangy taste; Greek yogurt works as a lighter option if you prefer.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, at room temperature) – Enhances the creaminess of your icing; vegan butter can be used for a dairy-free choice.
- Powdered sugar (½ cup) – Sweetens the icing to perfection; pure maple syrup is a great alternative for a less processed option.
- Milk (1 tablespoon) – Adjusts the consistency of the icing nicely; non-dairy milk can be swapped in for a vegan-friendly alternative.
- Vanilla extract (¼ teaspoon) – Elevates the flavor of your icing; almond extract can be used if you’re looking for a different aromatic profile.
How to Make Brioche Cinnamon Rolls
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Prepare Brioche Dough: Begin by following the Sicilian Brioche recipe steps, but remember to omit the orange zest. Let your dough rise for about 3 hours until it has doubled in size and feels soft to the touch.
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Prepare the Filling: Melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter and use it to coat the bottom of a 10 x 14 inch baking dish. In a bowl, mix together ½ cup brown sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, creating a fragrant filling.
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Assemble the Rolls: Roll out your risen dough into a 12 x 18 inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Brush the rolled dough generously with melted butter, then evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top.
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Roll and Cut: Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log, seam side down. Cut the log into 12 equal rolls, using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean edges. Place the rolls in the prepared baking dish, cover, and let rise until they touch—about 1 to 1.5 hours.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, until they’re beautifully golden brown and puffed up.
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Make Cream Cheese Icing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together ¼ cup cream cheese and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add ½ cup powdered sugar, ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of milk, mixing until your icing is thick and spreadable.
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Serve: Enjoy your warm Brioche Cinnamon Rolls straight from the oven or allow them to cool to room temperature. Drizzle generously with the cream cheese icing before serving!
Optional: Sprinkle some chopped nuts or raisins on top for added texture!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Brioche Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Feel free to tweak these delightful rolls to match your family’s tastes and dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute all dairy ingredients with non-dairy alternatives, using plant-based milk and vegan butter for the icing.
- Spicy Twist: Swap out ground cinnamon for pumpkin spice to give a seasonal flavor that will warm your heart.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for added texture and a nutty flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness.
- Fruity Addition: Toss in some raisins or chopped dried cranberries in the filling for a sweet burst of fruit that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
- Citrus Zing: Include orange or lemon zest in the dough for a refreshing twist that brightens the classic flavor profile.
- Icing Options: Experiment with different icing flavors, such as maple or chocolate, to create a luscious topping that personalizes your rolls.
- Savory Surprise: Try infusing the dough with herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory brioche roll perfect for pairing with cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these rolls accessible for those avoiding gluten, while still achieving a fluffy texture.
What to Serve with Brioche Cinnamon Rolls?
Elevate your homemade delight with delightful pairings that bring harmony and joy to your table.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich sweetness of the rolls. It’s like a lively splash of color on your plate!
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Strong Coffee: The bold flavors of a dark roast coffee complement the sugary cinnamon rolls perfectly, enhancing your cozy morning vibe. Sip slowly and savor each bite!
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Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of crispy bacon pairs beautifully with the fluffy rolls, balancing sweetness with savory goodness. It creates a delightful contrast that makes each bite a special experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting over warm cinnamon rolls is pure bliss. The contrast of temperatures creates a comforting, indulgent dessert that feels like a warm hug.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: Adding a drizzle of maple syrup not only amplifies the sweetness but injects a charming twist, enhancing your rolls with a lovely caramel note.
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Hot Chocolate: A mug of rich hot chocolate makes for a delightful pairing, enveloping you in warmth, sweetness, and nostalgia. It’s a treat that transforms your breakfast into a celebration!
Storage Tips for Brioche Cinnamon Rolls
- Room Temperature: Store leftover cinnamon rolls covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. For best taste, wrap them tightly to prevent drying out.
- Fridge: If you wish to keep them longer, you can refrigerate the rolls for up to 5 days. Make sure they are in an airtight container to maintain moisture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individually wrapped brioche cinnamon rolls for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: Reheat rolls in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Make Ahead Options
These Brioche Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful option for meal prep, making mornings a breeze! You can prepare the dough and assemble the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the dough preparation and assembly steps, then cover the baking dish tightly and refrigerate overnight. To ensure the rolls rise properly, allow them to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. The cream cheese icing can also be made ahead; just store it in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before serving. This way, you can wake up to the sweet aroma of freshly baked rolls with minimal morning effort and just as delicious results!
Expert Tips for Brioche Cinnamon Rolls
- Kneading Matters: Ensure your dough is kneaded properly; under-kneading can lead to dense rolls. Aim for a smooth, elastic consistency.
- Rising Time: Be patient with the rising time; proper fermentation creates that airy texture. A warmer environment helps speed up the process.
- Cutting Technique: Use dental floss or a sharp knife instead of a serrated knife to cut rolls cleanly without squishing them, preserving their shape.
- Icing Consistency: Adjust your cream cheese icing by adding more milk if it’s too thick and mixing more powdered sugar if it’s too thin for the perfect spreadability.
- Storage Tips: Store leftover rolls tightly covered at room temperature for up to three days, and keep the icing in the fridge to maintain consistency.
Brioche Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of flour is best for making Brioche Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! For the best texture in your Brioche Cinnamon Rolls, using all-purpose flour works wonderfully. It has the right balance of protein to create that soft, fluffy structure. If you want to experiment, you could try adding a small portion of bread flour for added chewiness.
How can I tell if my dough has risen enough?
A well-risen brioche dough should have doubled in size and feel puffy to the touch. You can also do the “poke test”—gently poke the dough with your finger. If the indentation remains, it’s ready for the next step!
What’s the best way to store leftover Brioche Cinnamon Rolls?
To keep your rolls fresh, store leftover Brioche Cinnamon Rolls covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re tightly wrapped to prevent drying out. If they start to lose their softness, you can pop them in the microwave for about 15 seconds to warm them back up!
Can I freeze Brioche Cinnamon Rolls?
Yes, you can! After baking and cooling, individually wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature, then warm them in the microwave or oven.
What should I do if my cinnamon rolls are too dense?
Very! If your rolls turn out dense, it could be due to under-kneaded dough. Make sure the dough is kneaded until smooth and elastic for the best outcome. Also, check your yeast; expired or inactive yeast can prevent proper rising. If you’re uncertain, make sure to use fresh yeast for fluffy results!
Are there any dietary considerations for Brioche Cinnamon Rolls?
Yes, absolutely! For a dairy-free alternative, you can use margarine and non-dairy milk in both the dough and the icing. If anyone in your gathering has a nut allergy, ensure any optional toppings like nuts are omitted. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure they meet dietary needs!
Ultimate Brioche Cinnamon Rolls That Melt In Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Brioche Dough: Follow the Sicilian Brioche recipe steps, omit orange zest. Let dough rise for about 3 hours until doubled and soft.
- Prepare the Filling: Melt ¼ cup butter to coat a 10 x 14 inch baking dish. Mix together ½ cup brown sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon.
- Assemble the Rolls: Roll out risen dough into a 12 x 18 inch rectangle, brush with melted butter, sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Roll and Cut: Roll dough tightly into a log, cut into 12 rolls, place in baking dish, cover, let rise until touching (1 to 1.5 hours).
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
- Make Cream Cheese Icing: Whisk together ¼ cup cream cheese and 2 tablespoons butter until smooth, gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk.
- Serve: Enjoy warm or cool to room temperature. Drizzle with cream cheese icing before serving.