Cinnamon Raisin Rolls
These homemade cinnamon raisin rolls are the kind of treat that makes your whole house smell like a bakery! The dough is soft, pillowy, and buttery, wrapping around a swirl of cinnamon-sugar that caramelizes just enough in the oven to create gooey ribbons of sweetness. Plump raisins are tucked into every bite, giving a chewy burst of flavor that balances perfectly with the warm spices. Fresh from the oven, the rolls are golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and almost melt in your mouth. A simple drizzle of sweet glaze over the top makes them irresistible. They’re cozy, nostalgic, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon indulgence with a cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm milk
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup raisins
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp butter, softened (for filling)
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
Instructions
For the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and 1 tbsp sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Add remaining sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt. Mix in flour gradually until a soft dough forms.
- Knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled (about 1 hour).
- Punch down the dough, roll into a 14x9-inch rectangle. Spread with softened butter, then sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and raisins.
- Roll up tightly from the long side, then slice into 12 rolls. Place in a greased 9x13-inch pan. Cover and let rise again until puffy (30–45 minutes).
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
For the Glaze
- For glaze, whisk powdered sugar with milk and drizzle over warm rolls.