Perfectly Buttery Cinnamon Buns

Soft, gooey, and dripping with buttery cinnamon goodness—these Perfectly Buttery Cinnamon Buns are the ultimate treat. With layers of tender dough swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with a rich cream cheese glaze, they’re perfect for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you crave something indulgent!

A square oven pan populated by four large cinnamon buns with glazing on top.

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, warmed
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened

For the Filling

  • ¾ cup (150g) brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • ⅓ cup (75g) unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

  • 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2–3 tablespoons milk (for desired consistency)

Steps

  1. Activate the Yeast
    In a small bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make the Dough
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until smooth. Add the salt, softened butter, and remaining flour. Knead until a soft, elastic dough forms (about 8–10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes in a stand mixer).
  3. Let It Rise
    Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1–1.5 hours).
  4. Prepare the Filling
    In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
  5. Roll and Fill
    Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 18×12 inches). Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top.
  6. Shape the Buns
    Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the long side. Cut into 12 equal slices and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  7. Second Rise
    Cover the dish and let the buns rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffy.
  8. Bake
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the buns for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  9. Make the Glaze
    Beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Adjust milk for desired thickness.
  10. Glaze and Serve
    Spread the glaze over the warm buns and serve immediately for maximum gooeyness.

Enjoy!