Name: Mini Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 1 h 30 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 1 h 48 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F); 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar (for filling); 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling); 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for frosting); 3/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1–2 tablespoons milk (to thin frosting, as needed)

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Mini Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are bite-sized versions of the classic bakery favorite—soft, gooey, and swirled with a sweet cinnamon-sugar filling, then topped with a rich, tangy cream cheese frosting. These rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack any time of day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These mini cinnamon rolls offer all the deliciousness of traditional rolls in a smaller, more manageable size. They bake faster, serve easily, and are ideal for sharing. The cream cheese frosting melts into the warm spirals, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Whether for a cozy weekend treat or a festive holiday platter, they’re always a hit.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dough:

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Active dry yeast
Salt
Warm milk
Unsalted butter, melted
Egg

For the filling:

Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Unsalted butter, softened

For the frosting:

Cream cheese, softened
Unsalted butter
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Milk (optional, for thinning)

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Add melted butter, egg, and salt. Stir in flour gradually until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5–7 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Roll out the dough into a rectangle (about 9×12 inches). Spread softened butter over the surface.
Mix brown sugar and cinnamon together and sprinkle evenly over the butter.
Tightly roll the dough from the longer side and cut into 1-inch mini rolls.
Place the rolls in a greased baking dish or mini muffin pan. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden.
For the frosting, beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Thin with a splash of milk if desired.
Spread frosting over the warm rolls and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 18–24 mini rolls
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rise Time: 90 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 2.5 hours

Variations

Add-ins: Mix in chopped pecans, raisins, or mini chocolate chips to the filling.
Maple frosting: Substitute vanilla extract with maple syrup for a warm, fall-inspired flavor.
Vegan version: Use plant-based milk, egg replacer, and dairy-free butter and cream cheese.
Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend suitable for yeast doughs.

Storage/Reheating

Store the mini cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to soften. Frosting may be added just before serving to maintain freshness. You can also freeze the rolls unfrosted for up to 2 months and thaw before warming and frosting.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise and continue the next day.

Can I use pre-made dough?

Yes, store-bought crescent roll dough or pizza dough can be used in a pinch.

How do I keep the rolls soft?

Avoid overbaking and be sure to cover them while rising to retain moisture.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just use a larger baking dish or two muffin trays.

Can I freeze baked cinnamon rolls?

Yes, freeze unfrosted rolls and add frosting after thawing and reheating.

Do I need a stand mixer for the dough?

No, this dough can be mixed and kneaded by hand, though a mixer makes it easier.

Can I make regular-sized rolls instead?

Yes, cut the dough into larger sections and bake for a few extra minutes.

What’s the best way to frost them?

Frost while warm for a melted glaze effect or wait until cool for a thicker frosting layer.

Why didn’t my dough rise?

Ensure your yeast is active and that the milk is warm (not hot) to activate it.

How do I make the frosting thicker or thinner?

Add more powdered sugar for thickness or a splash of milk to thin it to your liking.

Conclusion

Mini Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful twist on a beloved classic. Their size makes them perfect for serving at brunches, parties, or as a portion-controlled indulgence. With their soft, cinnamon-swirled centers and creamy frosting, these rolls are bound to become a favorite in your baking rotation.

Mini Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

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Soft and fluffy mini cinnamon rolls filled with a buttery cinnamon-sugar swirl and topped with rich cream cheese frosting — a bite-sized treat perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 48 minutes
Yield: 24 mini rolls 1x
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

In a large bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Add melted butter, egg, and salt. Stir to combine.
Add flour gradually and knead the dough for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Roll out dough on a floured surface into a 12×10-inch rectangle.
Spread softened butter over dough, then sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon.
Roll up the dough tightly from the long side and cut into 24 mini rolls.
Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 20–30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake rolls for 15–18 minutes until golden.
While baking, prepare the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and a bit of milk to reach desired consistency.
Spread frosting over warm rolls and serve.