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Craving warm, gooey cinnamon rolls but short on time? You’re in the right place! In this post, I’ll share my quick and easy recipe for Ooey Gooey One-Hour Cinnamon Rolls. With simple ingredients and no waiting, you’ll have fresh, hot rolls ready in just one hour. Let’s get started on baking a batch that will impress your family and friends!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe allows you to enjoy delicious cinnamon rolls in just one hour, perfect for a last-minute breakfast or brunch treat!
- Gooey Goodness: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates a rich filling that melts in your mouth, making every bite a heavenly experience.
- Customizable Toppings: The frosting can be adjusted to your liking, whether you prefer a cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze for a lighter option.
- Family Favorite: These cinnamon rolls are sure to impress your family and friends, making them a staple for gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 packet instant yeast
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ cup whole milk (warmed)
– ½ cup water (warmed)
– ⅓ cup unsalted butter (melted)
– 2 large eggs (room temperature)
– ½ cup packed brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon (for filling)
– 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese (softened)
– 2 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making these ooey gooey cinnamon rolls. Use fresh ingredients for the best taste. The flour gives the rolls structure. Instant yeast makes the dough rise fast. Sugar adds sweetness, while salt balances the flavors.
Ground cinnamon is key for a warm spice in your rolls. Whole milk and water help create a soft dough. Melted butter adds richness and flavor. Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for a smooth mix.
For the filling, brown sugar and ground cinnamon create that delicious, sticky center. The frosting, made from powdered sugar, cream cheese, milk, and vanilla, brings everything together for a sweet finish.
With these ingredients, you are ready to create a treat that everyone will love!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
1. Start by mixing the dry ingredients. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, instant yeast, granulated sugar, salt, and ground cinnamon. Stir them well. This helps evenly distribute the yeast and spices.
2. Now, combine the wet ingredients. In a different bowl, whisk together the warmed milk, warmed water, melted butter, and room-temperature eggs. Once mixed, pour this into the dry ingredients.
3. Form a shaggy dough. Stir until the mixture just starts to come together. Gradually add in the remaining flour, one cup at a time. Keep mixing until you see a soft dough forming. It should pull away from the bowl sides.
Kneading and Rising
1. Knead the dough. Lightly flour a clean surface. Place the dough on it. Use your hands to knead for about 5-7 minutes. If you prefer, a stand mixer with a dough hook works well too.
2. First rise. Once the dough is smooth and elastic, place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for 15-20 minutes. It should double in size.
Preparing the Filling and Shaping
1. Mix the cinnamon sugar filling. In a small bowl, blend the packed brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Make sure it is well combined for a sweet burst in every bite.
2. Roll and slice the dough. After the dough rises, lightly flour your work surface again. Roll out the dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Brush it with melted butter. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the surface.
3. Now, tightly roll the dough from one edge to the other. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces. A sharp knife or dental floss helps make clean cuts. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Final Rise and Baking
1. Second rise. Cover the baking dish with a towel. Allow the rolls to rise for another 20 minutes while you preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Baking tips. Bake the cinnamon rolls for 18-20 minutes. They should turn golden brown. You can check for doneness by gently pressing the top; it should spring back.
Making the Frosting
1. Mix the frosting ingredients. In a medium bowl, combine the powdered sugar, softened cream cheese, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until it is smooth and creamy.
2. When the rolls are done, drizzle the frosting over them while they are still warm. This makes each bite even more gooey and delightful!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Dough
To achieve the ideal dough consistency, mix your dry ingredients well before adding wet ones. Make sure the dough is soft and slightly sticky. A shaggy dough is a good sign that you’re on the right track.
For faster rising, you can preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and then turn it off. Place the covered dough inside. It will rise nicely in the warm air.
Enhancing Flavor
You can enhance flavor by adding different spices or extracts. Try nutmeg or vanilla to give a new twist. You can also mix in nuts or chocolate chips for a richer filling.
Using a mix of brown and white sugar adds depth. The brown sugar creates a lovely caramel flavor.
Making the Rolls Gooey
Adjusting the butter and sugar ratios can make your rolls extra gooey. Use more melted butter in the filling and drizzle extra sugar on top before baking.
For the best results, serve your rolls warm. They taste best straight from the oven. You can also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a delightful treat.
Pro Tips
- Ingredient Temperature Matters: Make sure your milk and water are warm, not hot, to activate the yeast effectively without killing it.
- Kneading Technique: If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for about 5-6 minutes. If kneading by hand, ensure the dough is smooth and elastic before rising.
- Rolling for Uniformity: Roll the dough evenly to avoid thick or thin spots, ensuring all rolls bake evenly for a perfect gooey texture.
- Frosting While Warm: Drizzle the frosting over the rolls while they are still warm to allow it to melt slightly and soak into the rolls for extra flavor.

Variations
Flavor Options
You can change up the ooey gooey one-hour cinnamon rolls in fun ways. Here are two tasty ideas:
– Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls: Add a fall twist! Mix 1 cup of pumpkin puree into the dough. Use 1 tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon in the filling. This gives your rolls a warm, cozy flavor.
– Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Rolls: Who doesn’t love chocolate? Just sprinkle 1 cup of chocolate chips over the cinnamon sugar filling. Roll it up as usual. The melted chocolate makes each bite rich and sweet.
Dietary Variations
You can also make these rolls fit different diets. Here are some options:
– Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum. This helps mimic the texture of regular dough. Follow the same steps, and enjoy your gluten-free treat.
– Vegan Cinnamon Rolls: Replace the eggs with 1/2 cup of unsweetened applesauce. Use almond milk or soy milk in place of whole milk. For butter, try coconut oil or vegan butter. These changes keep the rolls soft and delicious without animal products.
Feel free to explore these variations! Each option brings new flavors and fun to your kitchen.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store your leftover cinnamon rolls, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for about 2-3 days at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them. Just remember to wrap them well with plastic wrap to avoid drying out.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your cinnamon rolls and keep them gooey, use the microwave. Heat one roll for about 15-20 seconds. Check to see if it’s warm enough. If not, add a few more seconds. For a crispier option, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This way, they become warm and slightly crispy on the outside.
Freezing Cinnamon Rolls
You can freeze cinnamon rolls both before and after baking. To freeze unbaked rolls, prepare them up to the second rise. Then, place them in the freezer on a tray until solid. After they freeze, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, let them thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, let them rise for about 20 minutes before baking.
If your rolls are already baked, let them cool completely. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. To enjoy them, thaw in the fridge, then reheat as mentioned above for a warm, gooey treat.
FAQs
Can I make cinnamon rolls the night before?
Yes, you can make cinnamon rolls the night before. First, prepare the dough and shape the rolls. Place them in the greased baking dish. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap and put them in the fridge. This keeps them fresh overnight. In the morning, take the rolls out. Let them rise for about 30 minutes at room temperature. Then, bake them as usual. This method saves time and still gives you soft, gooey rolls.
How do I know when the cinnamon rolls are done?
To check if your cinnamon rolls are done, look for a few signs. They should be golden brown on top. The edges should pull away from the baking dish slightly. You can also poke one with a toothpick. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they are ready. Perfect rolls will be soft and fluffy, not doughy. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking for the best results.
Can I substitute ingredients?
Yes, you can substitute some ingredients in this recipe. Here are some options:
– Milk: You can use almond milk or soy milk if you want a dairy-free option.
– Butter: Coconut oil works well if you need a dairy-free substitute.
– Sugar: You can use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a different flavor.
– Eggs: If you want a vegan option, use flax eggs or applesauce.
These changes can help you adapt the recipe to your needs while still tasting great!
Making cinnamon rolls is fun and rewarding. You learned about essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. Each step builds the perfect roll, from mixing dough to adding your favorite flavors. Explore variations and substitutions to make them your own.
With these techniques, you can create rolls that are soft, gooey, and delightful. Enjoy the process, share with others, and savor your homemade treats. Your kitchen adventure starts no
Ooey Gooey One-Hour Cinnamon Rolls
Deliciously soft and gooey cinnamon rolls that can be made in just one hour.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 250 kcal
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet instant yeast (2¼ teaspoons)
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 cup whole milk, warmed
- 0.5 cup water, warmed
- 0.33 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 0.5 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon (for filling)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 2 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, instant yeast, granulated sugar, salt, and ground cinnamon. Stir well until all dry ingredients are evenly mixed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the warmed milk, warmed water, melted unsalted butter, and room-temperature eggs until fully combined. Pour this wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir until just combined, creating a shaggy dough.
Gradually incorporate the remaining flour, adding one cup at a time, until a soft dough begins to form and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
Lightly flour a clean surface and knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook to make this process easier.
Once kneaded, place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area for 15-20 minutes, or until it doubles in size.
In the meantime, prepare the filling by mixing the packed brown sugar with the ground cinnamon in a small bowl until thoroughly combined.
After the dough has risen, lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough into a rectangle approximately ¼ inch thick. Brush the surface generously with melted butter, and then evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the dough.
Starting from one edge, carefully and tightly roll the dough into a log. Once rolled, slice the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts. Place the rolls into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spaced evenly.
Cover the baking dish with a towel and allow the rolls to rise for an additional 20 minutes while you preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the cinnamon rolls in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
While the rolls bake, create the frosting by mixing the powdered sugar, softened cream cheese, milk, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy.
Once the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and immediately drizzle the frosting over the warm rolls. Serve them straight away for a gooey delight!
Serve the cinnamon rolls directly in the baking dish or transfer them to a decorative serving platter. For an elegant touch, adorn with a light dusting of powdered sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.
Keyword baking, cinnamon rolls, dessert
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