Heavenly Resurrection Cinnamon Rolls Recipe in 12 Steps

I still remember the first time I pulled a pan of Resurrection Cinnamon Rolls from the oven – that heavenly scent of warm cinnamon and butter filling my kitchen, the glaze dripping slowly down their pillowy sides. These aren’t just any cinnamon rolls. They’re my Sunday morning love letters, the ones my kids come running for before their feet even hit the floor. What makes them special? That perfect balance between soft, fluffy dough and that sinful cinnamon-sugar swirl, all wrapped up with a sweet vanilla glaze that’ll make you close your eyes and sigh after the first bite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, those tube cinnamon buns will never tempt you again.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love These Resurrection Cinnamon Rolls

Oh, where do I even begin? These cinnamon rolls aren’t just good—they’re the kind that make you do a little happy dance while eating them. Here’s why they’ve become my family’s most-requested breakfast (and sometimes dessert…okay, fine, midnight snack too):

  • Cloud-like texture: That first bite? Pure magic. The dough bakes up so soft and fluffy, it practically melts in your mouth.
  • Easy enough for beginners: Don’t let the yeast scare you! I’ll walk you through each step so simply, you’ll feel like a pro baker.
  • That cinnamon swirl: Just wait until you see how the brown sugar and cinnamon caramelize into gooey perfection between the layers.
  • The glaze that makes everything better: My secret? A touch of vanilla in the glaze that takes it from sweet to “oh-my-goodness” delicious.
  • Smells like home: Nothing beats waking up to the scent of these baking—it’s instant comfort in oven form.

Seriously, one taste and you’ll understand why we call them “resurrection” rolls—they bring people back to the table for seconds (and thirds)!

Resurrection Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients

Okay, let’s gather our baking squad! Here’s everything you’ll need to create these heavenly rolls – and yes, every single ingredient matters. I learned that the hard way when I tried skipping the egg once (never again!).

  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast: Make sure it’s fresh! I always check the expiration date because nothing’s sadder than dough that won’t rise.
  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F): Not hot, not cold – think baby bottle temperature. I use my finger to test it; it should feel comfortably warm.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Plain white sugar works perfectly here to feed our yeast friends.
  • 1/3 cup melted butter: I use unsalted, but if you only have salted, just reduce the added salt slightly.
  • 1 tsp salt: Trust me, this balances all the sweetness beautifully.
  • 2 eggs: Room temperature eggs incorporate better – I leave mine out about 30 minutes before baking.
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour: I spoon and level my flour to avoid dense rolls. No packing!
  • 1/2 cup softened butter: For the filling – soft enough to spread easily but not melted.
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar: Pack it firmly in the measuring cup – this creates that gooey caramel layer we love.
  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon: The star of the show! Use fresh cinnamon for maximum flavor.

For the glaze that makes everything better:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar: Sifted if you want extra smooth glaze.
  • 2 tbsp milk: Whole milk gives the richest flavor.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract: The secret weapon! Pure vanilla makes all the difference.
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Resurrection Cinnamon Rolls

Heavenly Resurrection Cinnamon Rolls Recipe in 12 Steps


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  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 rolls
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls with a sweet glaze, perfect for breakfast or dessert.


Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup melted butter
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 eggs
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup softened butter
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract


Instructions

  1. Dissolve yeast in warm milk with sugar.
  2. Add melted butter, salt, eggs, and flour. Mix into a dough.
  3. Knead dough for 5 minutes, then let rise for 1 hour.
  4. Roll dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter, and sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon.
  5. Roll tightly, slice into 12 pieces, and place in a greased pan.
  6. Let rise for 30 minutes, then bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
  7. Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for glaze. Drizzle over warm rolls.

Notes

  • Use fresh yeast for best results.
  • Let dough rise in a warm place.
  • Adjust cinnamon to taste.
  • Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

How to Make Resurrection Cinnamon Rolls

Alright, let’s get our hands doughy! Making these cinnamon rolls is like a little kitchen ballet—each step flows into the next. Don’t rush it, though. Good things come to those who wait (and let dough rise properly!).

Preparing the Dough

First, let’s wake up our yeast. In a large bowl, combine the warm milk (test it on your wrist—it should feel like a warm bath, not hot), sugar, and yeast. Give it a gentle stir and walk away for 5 minutes. When you come back, it should look foamy and smell slightly sweet—that’s your yeast saying “hello!”

Now add the melted butter, salt, eggs, and 2 cups of flour. Stir with a wooden spoon until it comes together. Add the remaining flour ½ cup at a time until the dough pulls away from the bowl sides. Turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes—you’ll feel it transform from sticky to smooth and elastic under your hands. When it springs back lightly when poked, it’s ready!

Pop it in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour. I like to turn my oven light on and let it rise in there—just don’t turn the oven on! The dough should double in size, looking all puffy and proud.

Rolling and Filling

Punch down the dough (so satisfying!) and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle about 16×12 inches—don’t stress about perfection here. Spread the softened butter all the way to the edges (I use my fingers for this—messy but effective!).

Now the fun part! Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together, then sprinkle it evenly over the buttered dough. Starting with the long side nearest you, roll it up tightly—like you’re rolling a yoga mat. Pinch the seam to seal. Use a sharp knife or dental floss (my secret weapon!) to cut into 12 even rolls.

Arrange them in a greased 9×13 inch pan, leaving a little space between each for rising. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes—they’ll get nice and puffy.

Baking and Glazing

Preheat your oven to 350°F while the rolls do their final rise. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown on top—the kitchen will smell incredible! The centers should spring back lightly when touched.

While they bake, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for the glaze. You want it thick but pourable—add more milk a teaspoon at a time if needed. Drizzle it over the warm rolls right when they come out of the oven. That glaze will seep into all the nooks and crannies where the cinnamon sugar caramelized…absolute heaven!

Try to let them cool for at least 10 minutes before diving in—I know it’s hard, but burned mouths don’t taste cinnamon rolls properly!

These Heavenly Resurrection Cinnamon Rolls are soft, gooey, and packed with sweet cinnamon flavor—an absolute showstopper in just 12 simple steps. If you’re a fan of warm, pull-apart cinnamon treats, you’ll also love our Cinnamon Sugar Monkey Bread Recipe, a fun and irresistible twist that’s perfect for sharing.

Tips for Perfect Resurrection Cinnamon Rolls

After making these cinnamon rolls more times than I can count (and eating even more!), I’ve picked up some tricks that make all the difference:

  • Cover that second rise! A damp kitchen towel over the rolls prevents drying out while they puff up.
  • Toothpick test don’t lie: If it comes out with just a few moist crumbs (not wet dough), they’re done.
  • Slice smarter: Unflavored dental floss cuts clean rolls without squishing them—just slide it underneath and pull the ends up.
  • Butter temperature matters: Too cold and it won’t spread, too warm and it melts into the dough. Aim for slightly softened.
  • Glaze timing: Pour it on while rolls are warm—it soaks in better and creates that irresistible glossy finish.

Oh! And if your kitchen’s chilly, let dough rise in the oven with just the light on—creates the perfect cozy environment.

Resurrection Cinnamon Rolls - detail 1

Ingredient Substitutions & Notes

Listen, I’m all about using what you’ve got – life happens and sometimes you need to improvise! Here’s how to make these cinnamon rolls work with what’s in your pantry, plus some important notes I’ve learned the hard way:

  • Milk alternatives: Almond milk or oat milk work great if you’re dairy-free – just warm it like regular milk. The rolls might be slightly less rich, but still delicious.
  • Yeast check: If your yeast doesn’t foam after 5 minutes in warm milk, it’s dead, darling. Toss it and start fresh – no foam means no rise!
  • Sugar swaps: Coconut sugar can replace brown sugar in the filling, but expect a deeper, almost caramel-like flavor. For the glaze, maple syrup thinned with milk makes a fun alternative.
  • Butter blues: In a pinch, margarine works, but the flavor won’t be as rich. For dairy-free, I’ve had success with vegan butter sticks.
  • Flour facts: Need gluten-free? Use a 1:1 GF blend, but add an extra egg white to help binding.

One non-negotiable? That cinnamon! Freshness matters – if yours smells faint, it’s time for a new jar. Your tastebuds will thank you.

Serving and Storing Resurrection Cinnamon Rolls

Here’s the best part – getting to eat these beauties! I always serve them warm because that’s when the glaze melts into every crevice and the cinnamon filling becomes gloriously gooey. A hot cup of coffee is their perfect partner – the bitterness balances all that sweet, sticky goodness. If by some miracle you have leftovers (we rarely do!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

To reheat, I pop individual rolls in the microwave for 10-15 seconds until just warm – any longer and they get tough. For a crowd, cover the whole pan with foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. They’ll taste just-baked all over again!

Resurrection Cinnamon Rolls Nutritional Information

Now, let’s be real – we’re not eating cinnamon rolls for their health benefits! But because I know some folks like to keep track (or need to for dietary reasons), here’s the scoop per roll. Remember, these numbers can change based on your exact ingredients – consider them friendly estimates, not gospel truth!

  • Serving Size: 1 roll (about 1/12 of recipe)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 12g (7g saturated)
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g

My philosophy? Everything in moderation – including moderation! Sometimes you just need that warm, gooey cinnamon roll happiness.

For even more sweet inspiration, explore our boards on Pinterest where you’ll find creative breakfast bakes, desserts, and comforting classics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Over the years, I’ve gotten so many great questions about these resurrection cinnamon rolls! Here are the ones that pop up most often with my tried-and-true answers:

Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely! After the first rise, shape the rolls and place them in your pan, then freeze before the second rise. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge, then let them do their second rise at room temp before baking as usual.

Why didn’t my rolls rise?

Oh honey, I feel your pain! Usually it’s one of three things: expired yeast (always check that date!), milk that was too hot (it kills the yeast), or a cold kitchen. Try the oven-with-light-on trick next time!

Can I make these the night before?

You bet! Prepare through the second rise, then cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them sit at room temp for 30 minutes while your oven preheats, then bake as directed.

Why are my rolls dry?

Most likely overbaked or over-floured. Set a timer and check early – they should be golden, not brown. And when measuring flour, spoon it lightly into the cup rather than scooping.

Can I add nuts or raisins?

Of course! Sprinkle about 1/2 cup chopped pecans or raisins over the cinnamon-sugar filling before rolling. Just press them in gently so they don’t roll away when you slice!

Still have questions? Just ask in the comments – I love helping fellow cinnamon roll enthusiasts!

Share Your Resurrection Cinnamon Rolls Experience

I can’t wait to hear how your cinnamon roll adventure turns out! Did they disappear before they even cooled? Did you add your own twist? Snap a photo of those gorgeous swirls and tag me – nothing makes me happier than seeing your kitchen filled with the same sweet joy these rolls bring to mine. Leave a comment below with your baking triumphs (or funny flops – we’ve all had ’em!), and don’t forget to rate the recipe so others know just how heavenly these really are!

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