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Easy Caramel Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Caramel cinnamon rolls are the ultimate indulgence, combining soft, fluffy rolls swirled with a rich cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with gooey caramel sauce. These sweet treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, bringing warmth and decadence to your table. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich caramel topping, caramel cinnamon rolls are a crowd-pleaser and surprisingly easy to make at home.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Rolling Pin
  • Dough scraper or knife
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Whisk
  • Small saucepan
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  • For the Dough:
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast 1 packet
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup warm milk about 110°F
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 egg
  • For the Filling:
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
  • For the Caramel Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  • Make the Dough
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
  • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  • Prepare the Filling
  • In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
  • Roll and Fill the Dough
  • Roll the dough into a 12x18-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top, covering the surface.
  • Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the long side. Slice into 12 equal rolls.
  • Prepare the Caramel Sauce
  • In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla, and salt. Cook until smooth and slightly thickened, about 2–3 minutes. Pour the caramel sauce into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Assemble and Bake
  • Place the rolls cut-side up into the baking dish on top of the caramel sauce. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.
  • Serve
  • Let the rolls cool slightly before flipping the baking dish onto a large serving platter, allowing the caramel to coat the rolls. Serve warm.