Nothing evokes the warmth and comfort of home quite like the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the air. Classic Cinnamon Rolls with Mascarpone Frosting are the epitome of indulgence, combining a soft, fluffy dough with a buttery cinnamon-sugar filling and a rich, creamy mascarpone topping. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime treat, this recipe is a timeless classic that never fails to impress.

Cinnamon rolls have a rich history, with roots tracing back to Sweden where they are known as “kanelbullar.” Over the years, they have become a beloved staple in bakeries and homes worldwide. What sets this recipe apart is its decadent mascarpone frosting, which adds a luxurious twist to the traditional cream cheese glaze.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a holiday morning, or simply craving something sweet, these cinnamon rolls are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. The steps may take a bit of time, but the result is well worth the effort—a tray of golden-brown rolls, generously slathered in frosting, ready to be devoured.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 250 ml milk (warm, around 110°F or 45°C)
• 7 grams yeast (1 packet)
• 100 grams sugar
• 3 eggs
• 70 grams butter (softened)
• 500–600 grams flour
• Pinch of salt

For the Cinnamon Filling

• 150 grams butter (softened)
• 160 grams sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Mascarpone Frosting

• 250 grams mascarpone (room temperature)
• 50 grams powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time, and Servings

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Resting Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
• Servings: 12 rolls

Steps to Make Classic Cinnamon Rolls with Mascarpone Frosting

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. Warm the milk until it’s lukewarm (not hot). Add the yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar to the milk. Stir well and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture with the remaining sugar, eggs, and softened butter.
2. Gradually add the flour and a pinch of salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

1. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, sugar, and cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 12×18 inches.
2. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

1. Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log.
2. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.
3. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between them to allow for rising.

Step 6: Second Rise

1. Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise in a warm place for another 30 minutes. During this time, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 7: Bake

1. Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.

Step 8: Make the Mascarpone Frosting

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract (if using) until smooth and creamy.

Step 9: Frost and Serve

1. Generously spread the mascarpone frosting over the warm rolls.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy the gooey, creamy, cinnamon goodness!

Why This Recipe is Timeless

The Classic Cinnamon Rolls with Mascarpone Frosting are a timeless favorite because they strike the perfect balance between comforting tradition and indulgent luxury:

1. Universal Appeal: Cinnamon rolls are loved by people of all ages and across cultures, making them a go-to treat for any occasion.
2. Customizable: This recipe allows for endless variations. Add nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips to the filling for extra flavor.
3. Perfect for Any Time of Day: Whether for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a snack, cinnamon rolls are always a hit.
4. Mascarpone Frosting Twist: The creamy, slightly tangy mascarpone frosting elevates these rolls, giving them a unique and luxurious flavor.
5. Memorable Experience: The process of making cinnamon rolls—kneading the dough, rolling it out, and watching it bake—is both therapeutic and rewarding.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 6 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sodium: 180 mg

FAQs

Can I Make These Rolls Ahead of Time?

Yes! After shaping the rolls and placing them in the baking dish, cover and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise slightly before baking.

Can I Freeze the Rolls?

Absolutely. You can freeze the unbaked rolls or the fully baked ones. For unbaked rolls, freeze them after shaping and let them thaw and rise before baking. For baked rolls, freeze them without frosting and add the frosting after reheating.

What Other Frosting Options Can I Use?

If you don’t have mascarpone, cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk are excellent alternatives.

How Can I Make These Rolls Dairy-Free?

Substitute almond or oat milk for regular milk, and use a plant-based butter and dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting.

Tips for Making the Best Cinnamon Rolls

1. Warm Ingredients: Use warm milk and softened butter to ensure the dough rises properly.
2. Don’t Overflour: Add just enough flour to make a soft, slightly sticky dough for tender rolls.
3. Spread the Filling Evenly: Ensure the cinnamon filling covers the dough completely for a uniform flavor in every bite.
4. Slice with Precision: Use unflavored dental floss to cut the rolls cleanly without squishing the dough.
5. Frost While Warm: Adding the mascarpone frosting to warm rolls allows it to melt slightly, creating a gooey, irresistible topping.

Storage Tips

Refrigerator:

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for 15–20 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Freezer:

For longer storage, freeze the baked and unfrosted rolls for up to 3 months. Thaw and warm in the oven before adding frosting.

Conclusion

The Classic Cinnamon Rolls with Mascarpone Frosting are more than just a dessert—they’re an experience. From the rich aroma of cinnamon filling your kitchen to the first bite of the soft, buttery roll topped with creamy mascarpone, every step of making and eating these rolls is pure joy.

This recipe’s timeless appeal lies in its versatility and comforting flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at cinnamon rolls for the first time, this recipe is sure to yield delicious results. The mascarpone frosting adds a touch of elegance, making these rolls suitable for holidays, celebrations, or simply treating yourself.

So gather your ingredients, take your time, and enjoy the process. Once you’ve baked these rolls, you’ll see why they’ve been a favorite for generations. They’re more than just food—they’re a reminder of the warmth and joy that comes from creating something special with your own hands. Bon appétit!