Caramel Cinnamon Rolls

Caramel Cinnamon Rolls are a decadent twist on the classic breakfast pastry. Featuring soft, buttery dough spiraled with a sweet cinnamon-sugar filling and baked over a rich caramel sauce, these rolls are flipped after baking for a sticky, gooey finish that’s irresistibly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Buttery soft rolls with a rich caramel bottom
• Perfect for special occasions or weekend brunch
• Can be made ahead and baked fresh in the morning
• Customizable with nuts, fruits, or frosting
• A show-stopping treat that’s easier than it looks

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• all-purpose flour
• active dry yeast
• granulated sugar
• salt
• warm milk
• unsalted butter
• eggs

For the filling:

• brown sugar
• ground cinnamon
• softened butter

For the caramel base:

• unsalted butter
• brown sugar
• heavy cream or milk
• vanilla extract
• optional chopped pecans or walnuts

Directions

1. Make the dough: Mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit until foamy. Add melted butter, eggs, salt, and flour. Knead until smooth. Let rise until doubled.
2. Make the caramel: Melt butter in a saucepan, stir in brown sugar and cream. Cook until bubbly. Pour into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle with nuts if using.
3. Prepare filling: Mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter, then sprinkle the sugar-cinnamon mix.
4. Form rolls: Roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut into equal-sized pieces. Place over the caramel in the baking dish. Cover and let rise again.
5. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes or until golden.
6. Invert: Let cool for 5 minutes, then invert onto a tray or platter to let the caramel drizzle over the top.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 rolls
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Rise Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 2.5 to 3 hours

Variations

• Nutty: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the caramel layer
• Apple cinnamon: Add chopped apples to the filling for a fruity touch
• Cream cheese topping: Add a dollop of cream cheese frosting after baking for extra indulgence
• Spiced: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar

Storage/Reheating

• Store: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for 4–5 days
• Reheat: Microwave individual rolls for 15–20 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes
• Freeze: Freeze baked or unbaked rolls (without caramel). Thaw and bake or reheat, then add warm caramel

FAQs

Can I make these overnight?

Yes. Assemble the rolls, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let come to room temperature and rise before baking.

What kind of yeast should I use?

Active dry yeast or instant yeast both work. Adjust proofing time if using instant yeast.

Can I skip the caramel?

You can, but the caramel makes these extra special. You can also just use a traditional glaze instead.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes. Refrigerated crescent or bread dough can be used in a pinch, but homemade is best for flavor and texture.

How do I know when they’re done baking?

The tops should be golden brown and the center roll should no longer look doughy.

Can I add frosting?

Absolutely. A drizzle of cream cheese frosting or vanilla glaze pairs beautifully with the caramel.

How do I keep the rolls soft?

Cover them with foil during baking if they’re browning too fast and don’t overbake.

Do I need to invert them?

Inverting helps distribute the caramel over the rolls. Let them sit for 5 minutes, then carefully flip onto a tray.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

You can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat, but the rolls will be denser.

What’s the best pan to use?

A 9×13-inch baking dish works perfectly. Metal or glass both work well.

Conclusion

Caramel Cinnamon Rolls take your favorite breakfast pastry to the next level with their gooey, golden caramel bottom and soft cinnamon-spiced swirls. Whether served warm for brunch or as a cozy dessert, these rolls are a mouthwatering treat everyone will crave.

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