Soft, fluffy, and filled with warm cinnamon sugar, these Christmas Morning Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect way to start a cozy holiday morning. Made from scratch and finished with a sweet vanilla glaze, they’ll fill your kitchen with irresistible festive aromas and bring everyone to the table fast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfectly tender, bakery-style rolls
Warm cinnamon flavor in every bite
Sweet vanilla glaze that melts into the rolls
Ideal for make-ahead holiday mornings
A timeless Christmas tradition

Prep & Bake Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: About 2 hours 30 minutes

Servings: 12 rolls

Ingredients

For the Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup milk, warm
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon Filling

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup brown sugar
Softened butter (for spreading)

For the Vanilla Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons vanilla extract
2–3 tablespoons milk

Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl
Small bowl
Rolling pin
9×13-inch baking dish
Whisk
Sharp knife or dental floss

Step-by-Step Instructions

Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and eggs. Mix until a soft dough forms.

Knead and Rise

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Roll and Fill

Roll the dough into a large rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly over the surface. Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon evenly on top.

Shape the Rolls

Roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut into 12 equal rolls and place them into a greased baking dish.

Second Rise

Cover and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown and fragrant.

Make the Glaze

While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.

Glaze and Serve

Drizzle the vanilla glaze generously over the warm cinnamon rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy the holiday magic.

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Rolls

Prepare the rolls the night before and refrigerate overnight
Use dental floss for clean slices
Add chopped pecans or raisins for variation
Serve with coffee, cocoa, or eggnog

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for Christmas morning breakfast
Great for brunch gatherings
Delicious warm or at room temperature
Pairs beautifully with whipped butter