If you’re looking for a bakery-style treat that’s soft, sweet, and loaded with creamy goodness, these Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls are exactly what you need. Fluffy dough swirled with cinnamon sugar and layered with a rich cream cheese filling makes every bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, holidays, or cozy weekend baking, these rolls combine the comforting warmth of cinnamon rolls with the tangy sweetness of cheesecake filling. The result? A decadent pastry that feels special but is simple enough to make at home.

Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls

Ultra-soft, fluffy texture

Sweet cinnamon sugar swirl
Rich and creamy center
Perfect for make-ahead baking

Ideal for holidays and gatherings

These rolls are warm, comforting, and indulgent — everything you want in a homemade sweet roll.

Ingredients

For the Dough

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

¼ cup granulated sugar
1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
½ teaspoon salt

¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg

For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Filling

8 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Add sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt. Mix well.
Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.

Tip: Dough should be soft but not sticky. Add flour a tablespoon at a time if needed.

Step 2: Make the Fillings

In separate bowls:

Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth.
Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until creamy.

Set aside.

Step 3: Roll and Fill

Roll dough into a large rectangle (about 14×18 inches).
Spread cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over dough.
Gently spread the cream cheese mixture over the cinnamon layer.

Step 4: Roll and Slice

Roll dough tightly into a log from the long edge.
Slice into 12 equal rolls.
Place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes.

Step 5: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 22–25 minutes until golden brown.

Let cool slightly before glazing.

Step 6: Add Glaze (Optional)

Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls.

Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Texture & Flavor Profile

Soft, pillowy dough

Sweet cinnamon swirl
Creamy, tangy center
Light vanilla glaze

The balance of warm cinnamon and smooth cream cheese makes these rolls extra special.

Variations

Maple Cream Cheese Rolls

Add ½ teaspoon maple extract to the glaze.

Nutty Cinnamon Rolls

Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon layer.

Overnight Rolls

Prepare rolls the night before and refrigerate after slicing. Bring to room temperature before baking.

Extra Creamy Version

Add small dollops of extra cream cheese filling on top before baking.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheat in the microwave for 15–20 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven softness.

Freezer

Freeze baked rolls (without glaze) for up to 2 months. Thaw and warm before serving.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls

Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth spreading.

Don’t overfill to prevent leaking during baking.
Roll tightly for beautiful swirls.
Let rolls cool slightly before glazing so it doesn’t melt completely.

Serving Ideas

These rolls are perfect for:

Holiday mornings
Weekend brunch

Baby or bridal showers
Coffee dates
Special family breakfasts

Serve with hot coffee, tea, or milk for the ultimate cozy treat.

Why This Recipe Works

The soft yeast dough creates a fluffy base, while the cinnamon sugar adds warmth and sweetness. The cream cheese layer introduces a rich, tangy contrast that keeps the rolls from being overly sweet. Together, they create a perfectly balanced, indulgent pastry.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls are soft, sweet, creamy, and completely irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a holiday or just craving something comforting and homemade, these rolls deliver bakery-quality results right from your kitchen.