Skillet Cinnamon Rolls Recipe: Gooey, Warm, and Fresh from the Oven Every Time

There’s something undeniably comforting about a batch of fresh cinnamon rolls hot from the oven. Soft, pillowy dough, a swirl of rich cinnamon sugar, and a generous drizzle of cream cheese icing—it's the kind of indulgence that turns any morning into a cozy celebration. This skillet cinnamon rolls recipe brings all of that warmth and flavor to your kitchen with a simple, approachable method that doesn’t require hours of labor.

Photo byInsanely Good Recipes

I came across this amazing recipe on Insanely Good Recipes and knew I had to try it. Trust me, once you take a bite of these perfectly spiced, gooey rolls, they’ll quickly become a staple in your weekend breakfast rotation, too.

A Little History About Cinnamon Rolls

Did you know that cinnamon rolls have a long history rooted in European baking traditions? Sweden claims its own version called “kanelbulle,” celebrated on October 4th as Cinnamon Roll Day! Over time, cinnamon rolls have become beloved across the world, each region adding its unique twist to this classic pastry. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a decadent dessert, cinnamon rolls never fail to satisfy a sweet tooth.

Let’s Get Baking!

Here’s how to whip up these mouthwatering skillet cinnamon rolls at home. The recipe breaks down into three simple components: a tender dough, a rich cinnamon-sugar filling, and a luscious cream cheese icing. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

Cinnamon Roll Dough

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 (1/4 ounce) packet instant yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup milk, room temperature
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1 lightly beaten egg

Cinnamon Sugar Filling

• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Egg Wash

• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon water

Cream Cheese Icing

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4-1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar until well combined. Make a well in the center of the mixture and pour in the milk, butter, and beaten egg. Using a wooden spoon, gently mix until the dough starts to come together.

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 10 minutes at medium speed. Once smooth, grease a bowl with oil and roll the dough in the oil to coat it. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.

2. Prepare the Cinnamon Filling:

While the dough is rising, beat together the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a medium bowl until well combined.

3. Shape the Rolls:

Once the dough has risen, turn it onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out into an 18x12 inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly across the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border on all sides.

Starting with the longer edge closest to you, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 8-12 slices, depending on how large you want your cinnamon rolls.

4. Second Proof:

Grease a 10-12 inch skillet with butter and arrange the cinnamon rolls inside. Cover the skillet and let the rolls rise for another 45-60 minutes, or until they double in size.

5. Bake the Rolls:

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly beat the egg and water together for the egg wash, and gently brush it over the tops of the risen rolls. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the rolls turn golden brown. Allow the rolls to cool slightly in the skillet for about 10 minutes.

6. Make the Icing:

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Slowly add the powdered sugar, followed by the vanilla and a pinch of salt. Continue to beat until the icing is creamy and well blended. Add more powdered sugar if you prefer a thicker consistency.

7. Serve:

Spread the icing over the warm cinnamon rolls and serve immediately. Enjoy the gooey center, soft dough, and warm spiced filling with every bite!

Pro Tips for the Best Cinnamon Rolls:

• Don’t overwork the dough: Kneading for just 5 minutes helps keep the dough tender.
• Use dental floss for slicing: For perfect rolls without squishing them, slide unflavored dental floss under the dough log, cross the ends over the top, and pull to slice.
• Customize the icing: You can add a touch of lemon zest for a bright twist or a pinch of espresso powder for a deeper flavor.

Dietary Variations:

• Vegetarian-friendly: This recipe is already meat-free.
• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, though you may need to adjust the liquid to achieve the right dough texture.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute the butter and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives like coconut oil or vegan cream cheese.

Cinnamon rolls are the perfect indulgence for a leisurely breakfast or special occasion. Whether you're sharing them with friends, serving them at brunch, or simply enjoying one with your morning coffee, these skillet cinnamon rolls will leave everyone asking for seconds. Try it for yourself and let me know how it turns out!

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