Amish Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Today, we’re diving into an Amish Cinnamon Rolls Recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Why make these? Because they’re supremely delicious, surprisingly easy, and perfect for any occasion be it a busy weekend brunch, a cozy family breakfast, or a last-minute treat for unexpected guests. These sweet rolls are packed with warm cinnamon flavor, just the right amount of sweetness, and a tender dough that practically melts in your mouth.

They’re also incredibly versatile: you can try variations like an Amish Cinnamon Rolls Recipe with Mashed Potatoes for that old-country flair, or even a hearty Amish Cinnamon Roll Recipe with Oatmeal if you’re craving something a bit heartier. If you’re new here, check out our Amish Church Soup Recipe for another authentic taste of Amish cuisine you’ll love. Let’s get rolling literally!

What Is Amish Cinnamon Rolls Recipe?

Think of these as the ultimate hug in pastry form. The name “Amish Cinnamon Rolls” comes from the simple, homestyle cooking traditions of the Amish and Mennonite communities. They’re known for using basic ingredients, flour, milk, yeast, sugar, and spices, and letting time do the work (hello, extended rise for extra flavor!). What makes them unique? It’s the slightly denser, more custardy dough compared to your typical quick-rise cinnamon roll. Maybe it’s that classic saying: “The way to a person’s heart is through their stomach,” and these rolls prove it every single time. Ready to bake up a batch? Come on your kitchen is about to smell amazing.

Why You’ll Love This Amish Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

1. Unbeatable Flavor & Texture
   These rolls boast a tender, melt-in-your-mouth crumb with a rich, buttery cinnamon-sugar swirl. If you’ve ever wondered why Amish Cinnamon Rolls taste so comfortingly sweet, it’s all in the long, slow rise that develops deep flavor.
2. Budget-Friendly & Practical
   Pantry staples are all you need: flour, sugar, yeast, a bit of butter, and pantry spices. No fancy ingredients mean you can whip up this recipe without breaking the bank.
3. Endless Variations
   Whether you want to try a Pioneer Woman Amish Cinnamon Rolls Recipe twist (think brown sugar glaze!), or experiment with Amish Cinnamon Rolls Recipe with Mashed Potatoes for a softer crumb, this base recipe is your canvas. Once you try it, you’ll want to bake them again and again!

How to Make Amish Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

These Amish Cinnamon Rolls are surprisingly simple: mix a few basic ingredients, let the dough rise until doubled, roll out, fill with cinnamon-sugar, let rise again, and bake to golden perfection. From start to finish, you’re looking at about 2–2½ hours (mostly hands-off!), but trust us, every minute is worth that gooey, warm reward.

Key Ingredients

• For the Dough:
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed to about 110°F
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 standard packet)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for greasing)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• For the Filling:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• For the Icing:
  • 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk (adjust for desired thickness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Optional: a dash of maple extract for an authentic sweet taste

Pro Tip: If you prefer a heartier texture, try a variation like an Amish Cinnamon Roll Recipe with Oatmeal, simply replace 1 cup of the all-purpose flour with 1 cup of finely ground oats. For an ultra-tender crumb, experiment with a batch that includes mashed potatoes (see our tips below).

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast (5–10 minutes)
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top. Let it stand for about 5–10 minutes, or until frothy.
   • Tip: If the yeast doesn’t foam, start over with fresh yeast and ensure your milk isn’t too hot, 110°F is ideal.
2. Make the Dough (10 minutes)
   • Once the yeast is frothy, add the melted butter, eggs, and salt to the bowl. Stir to combine. Gradually add 4 cups of all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
   • Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 6–8 minutes, adding small amounts of extra flour if the dough is too sticky. Your goal is a smooth, elastic ball that’s slightly tacky but not overly sticky.
   • Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
3. Prepare the Filling (5 minutes)
   • While the dough rises, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Use a spatula or spoon to create a soft, spreadable paste. Set aside.
4. Roll & Fill (10 minutes)
   • After the dough has doubled, punch it down gently and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a 16×12-inch rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
   • Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border along one long edge free of filling (this helps seal the roll). Starting from the opposite side, roll the dough up tightly, pinching the seam to seal.
5. Slice the Rolls (5 minutes)
   • Using a sharp knife or dental floss (gently slide it under the roll and cross it over the top), slice the log into 12 even rolls, about 1½ inches thick. Place each roll cut-side up into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, spacing them evenly.
6. Second Rise (30–45 minutes)
   • Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap or a lightly greased piece of parchment paper. Let the rolls rise in a warm place until puffy and nearly doubled, about 30–45 minutes.
7. Bake to Golden Perfection (22–27 minutes)
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls on the center rack for 22–27 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the centers are cooked through (avoid overbaking; you want them soft and gooey).
   • Tip: If the tops brown too quickly, tent a piece of foil over the pan during the last 5–7 minutes of baking.
8. Prepare the Icing & Drizzle (5 minutes)
   • While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add a bit more cream if you prefer a thinner glaze (for drizzling) or less for a thicker frosting.
   • As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, let them cool for 5 minutes. Then drizzle or spread the icing generously over the warm rolls so it seeps into all the nooks and crannies.
9. Serve & Enjoy!
   • These Amish Cinnamon Rolls are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Grab a napkin (or go a bit messy it’s worth it!) and savor that first bite of soft dough, sweet cinnamon, and creamy icing.

Amish Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 1 review

• Author: Ruthie
• Total Time: 2 hours
• Yield: 12–15 cinnamon rolls 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This Amish cinnamon rolls recipe is rich, fluffy, and deeply flavorful — just like the classic rolls passed down through generations in Amish and Mennonite kitchens. Made with mashed potatoes for moisture and softness, and finished with a sweet, buttery cinnamon filling, these rolls melt in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for holidays, Sunday brunch, or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe delivers old-fashioned comfort with every bite.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Dough :  1 cup mashed potatoes

2 cups whole milk, warm (110°F)

½ cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon active dry yeast

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

2 large eggs

6–7 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling :  1 cup brown sugar, packed

2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

Optional Cream Layer (for ultra-soft rolls)

½ cup heavy cream (to pour over before baking)

For the Icing : 1½ cups powdered sugar

2 tablespoons melted butter

2–3 tablespoons milk

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

• In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, mashed potatoes, and sugar. Stir in the yeast and let sit for 5–10 minutes, until bubbly.
• Add the softened butter and eggs to the mixture. Stir well. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
• Knead on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
• Roll the dough tightly from the long side. Slice into 12–15 even rolls and place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Punch down the dough and roll out into a large rectangle (about ¼ inch thick). Spread softened butter over the surface, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
• Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy. If using, pour heavy cream over the rolls just before baking.
• Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
• While baking, mix powdered sugar, melted butter, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust thickness with more milk if needed.
• Spread icing over warm rolls. Serve immediately or store for later (instructions below).

Notes

• The mashed potatoes make the dough incredibly moist — it’s a beloved old-fashioned trick!
• For extra gooey rolls, don’t skip the heavy cream step before baking.
• Want to try a variation? Swap in quick oats for part of the flour to mimic an Amish cinnamon roll recipe with oatmeal.
• These rolls freeze beautifully — bake ahead and ice after reheating.

• Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Amish, Mennonite, American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cinnamon roll
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

What to Serve With Amish Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

1. Fresh Fruit Platter
   A bright assortment of strawberries, blueberries, and pineapple adds a refreshing contrast to the rich sweetness of cinnamon rolls. The tartness of berries and the juicy crunch of pineapple help balance the indulgence.
2. Savory Breakfast Casserole
   A simple egg and cheese casserole think plus sautéed spinach or crumbled sausage pairs beautifully. As you dig into your gooey cinnamon rolls, a savory side offers that much-needed flavor counterpoint.
3. Coffee or Chai Tea Latte
   Serve with a steaming mug of strong coffee, rich latte, or spiced chai tea. The warmth of coffee beans or warming spices in chai perfectly complements the buttery cinnamon aroma that fills your kitchen.
4. Amish Sweet Rolls Recipe Twist
   For an extra treat, whip up a batch of Amish Sweet Rolls to serve alongside similar dough but flavored with fruit jam or streusel topping. It’s a delightful way to offer variety, especially if you’re hosting a brunch.

Top Tips for Perfecting Amish Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

• Ingredient Swaps & Add-Ins:
  • For a rustic twist, try the Amish Cinnamon Roll Recipe with Oatmeal by swapping 1 cup of all-purpose flour for 1 cup of finely ground oats.
  • Or, for the tenderest crumb, use our tried-and-true Amish Cinnamon Rolls Recipe with Mashed Potatoes: add 1/2 cup of plain mashed potatoes (cold, no lumps) and reduce the flour by 1/2 cup. This trick from our Mennonite friends yields ultra-moist rolls every time.
• Avoid Over-Flouring:
  • It’s tempting to add a ton of flour if the dough feels sticky, but too much flour makes rolls dense and dry. Aim for a dough that’s soft and slightly tacky. Use only as much flour as necessary during kneading.
• Perfecting the Rise:
  • The secret to that signature fluffy texture is a warm, draft-free environment. If your kitchen is cold, preheat your oven to 200°F for 2 minutes, then turn it off. Place the covered dough inside with the door slightly ajar.
• Even Slices, Even Bakes:
  • Use a length of unflavored dental floss to slice your log of dough into perfect, uniform rolls. Slide the floss underneath, cross it over the top, and pull no squished edges!
• Keep It Moist:
  • Baking in a ceramic or glass dish helps retain heat better than metal, ensuring even baking and moist interiors. If you use a metal pan, reduce the oven temperature by 10°F and monitor closely.

Once you follow these tips, you’ll be on your way to cinnamon roll perfection. Trust us there’s no going back!

Storing & Reheating Tips

• Short-Term Storage (2–3 days):
  • Transfer cooled rolls to an airtight container or cover them tightly with plastic wrap. Store at room temperature. For extra freshness, keep a folded paper towel inside the container to absorb excess moisture.
• Long-Term Storage (Up to 3 months):
  • For freezing, place cooled, un-iced rolls on a baking sheet so they freeze individually (avoid sticking). Once solid (about 2 hours), stack them in freezer-safe bags or containers, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating:
  • From Room Temperature or Refrigerated: Warm individual rolls in the microwave for 15–20 seconds, or wrap the whole pan in foil and heat at 300°F for 10–12 minutes.
  • From Frozen: Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat as above. If you want fresh-from-the-oven magic, bake frozen rolls (still in the pan, covered) at 350°F for 15–18 minutes, then add fresh icing.
• Meal Prep Idea:
  • Prepare the dough and let it rise. Slice the rolls, but instead of the second rise, cover and refrigerate or freeze. When you’re ready, let them come to room temperature (or rise) and bake. This is a lifesaver for busy mornings or impromptu brunches.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about pulling a pan of Amish Cinnamon Rolls hot from the oven. From the melt-in-your-mouth dough to the ooey-gooey cinnamon swirl and the dreamy drizzle of vanilla icing, these rolls are comfort food at its best. Whether you stick to the classic recipe, try a Mennonite Cinnamon Rolls Recipe variation, or experiment with Amish Sweet Rolls Recipe add-ins, you can’t go wrong. So roll up your sleeves, crank up your favorite baking playlist, and indulge in the sweet flavors of tradition. If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments and check out more delightful recipes like our hearty Amish Beef Stew Recipe. Happy baking!

FAQs

Further Reading & Resources

• If you enjoy traditional Amish cooking, check out Amish Friendship Bread on Wikipedia for a sweet, tangy loaf that’s passed among friends community-style.
• For savory inspiration, don’t miss our Amish Church Soup Recipe or the comforting Amish Beef Stew Recipe.
• Looking to explore natural remedies? Read about Amish Amoxicillin Natural Remedy for fascinating folk-lore and herbal uses.