Breakfast Rolls

Posted on December 26, 2025

Modified: December 26, 2025

By yasin
A baking pan filled with golden brown savory breakfast rolls, spiraled with sausage, eggs, cheese, and fresh parsley.

Ah, the aroma of fresh Breakfast Rolls baking in the oven! It’s a scent that instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where I first learned the magic of transforming simple ingredients into something truly special. These rolls, with their soft, pillowy texture and sweet cinnamon swirl, are more than just a treat; they’re a warm hug on a plate. And while I love a good savory breakfast, like this savory apple oatmeal bake, there is just something special about having soft, sweet rolls on a nice chilly morning.

My earliest memories are filled with the comforting rhythm of her rolling pin and the sweet, spicy scent of cinnamon filling the air. I remember sneaking bites of the dough when she wasn’t looking. Now, I get to share those same moments with my own daughter, creating new memories while honoring the traditions passed down through generations.

These Breakfast Rolls are a wonderful way to make a weekend feel luxurious without a ton of fuss and they are always a comforting treat. The recipe is low stress and deeply comforting, perfect for those cozy mornings when you want to slow down and savor the moment. Remember to always use fresh yeast for the best rise – it makes all the difference!

What You Need to Make This Recipe

The magic of these Breakfast Rolls comes from a blend of simple ingredients that create an irresistible flavor and texture. I especially love the combination of warm cinnamon and brown sugar. To get started, make sure you have all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, and, of course, that fragrant ground cinnamon. You can find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below. While we’re on the topic of tasty morning meals, have you tried this incredible comforting overnight breakfast casserole?

breakfast rolls recipe
Breakfast Rolls 5

How to Make Breakfast Rolls

Making these soft Breakfast Rolls is easier than you might think! First, we’ll create a simple dough, let it rise, and then roll it out to add that delicious cinnamon-sugar filling. After a bit of shaping, they’re ready for air frying to golden perfection. And if you’re looking for another amazing breakfast that is also very easy to make, give this Blueberry French Toast Casserole a try.

A baking pan filled with golden brown savory breakfast rolls, spiraled with sausage, eggs, cheese, and fresh parsley.
4c3fc6d7daaefbbd67c0f94572651fe11e6bdc2dbe72094cacf539aae5da6c16?s=30&d=https%3A%2F%2Fyummyget.com%2Fwp content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F11%2Fcropped FOOD Website 2 iconyasin

Cinnamon Swirl Breakfast Rolls

Warm, fluffy cinnamon swirl breakfast rolls, perfect for a weekend brunch or special breakfast. These rolls are soft, sweet, and easy to make with a simple air fryer method.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 rolls
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:
  • 2 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour plus more for dusting
  • 1 packet Active Dry Yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt
  • 3/4 cup Warm Milk (105-115°F)
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter melted
  • 1 Large Egg at room temperature
For the Filling:
  • 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter softened
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar packed
  • 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon
For the Glaze:
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter melted
  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons Milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

Making the Dough:
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, until foamy.
  • Add melted butter, egg, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  • Gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup of flour, mixing until the dough comes together and is slightly sticky. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
  • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Shaping and Filling:
  • Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a 12x9 inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
  • Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
  • Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Cut the log into 8 equal slices.
Air Frying:
  • Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper. Place the cinnamon rolls in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each roll. You may need to cook in batches.
  • Air fry at 320°F (160°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Check for doneness with a toothpick – it should come out clean.
Making the Glaze:
  • While the rolls are cooling slightly, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Drizzle the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For best results, ensure your yeast is fresh. You can substitute the milk in the dough and glaze with plant-based alternatives. Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Pro Tips for Making This Breakfast Rolls

To ensure your Breakfast Rolls come out perfectly every time, here are a few tips I’ve learned over the years:

  • Use Warm Milk: Make sure your milk is warm, not hot, when activating the yeast. Too much heat can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising properly.
  • Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough rolls. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
  • My Secret Trick: I always brush the top of the rolls with melted butter before baking. This helps them achieve a beautiful golden-brown color and adds extra flavor.
  • Let Them Cool Slightly: Resist the urge to dive in right away! Let the rolls cool slightly before adding the glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting completely.
breakfast rolls pinterest
Breakfast Rolls 6

Fun Variations for Breakfast Rolls

One of the best things about these Breakfast Rolls is how versatile they are! Here are a few fun variations to try:

  • Add Nuts: Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon-sugar filling for added texture and flavor.
  • Citrus Zest: Add a tablespoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy twist.
  • Cream Cheese Filling: Instead of cinnamon-sugar, spread a mixture of softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract over the dough before rolling.
  • Chocolate Chips: Throw in some chocolate chips to make them double indulgent.

What to Serve With Breakfast Rolls

These delicious Breakfast Rolls are fantastic on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with:

  • Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad provides a nice contrast to the sweetness of the rolls.
  • Bacon or Sausage: Add some savory protein to balance out the sweetness.
  • Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage is the perfect complement to these rolls.

How to Store Breakfast Rolls

To keep your leftover Breakfast Rolls fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through. I like to wrap mine in foil and reheat them slowly in the oven to bring them back to life!

Nutritional Benefits

These Breakfast Rolls, while a delightful treat, also offer some nutritional benefits. They provide carbohydrates for energy and calcium from the milk used in the dough. Enjoying them in moderation as part of a balanced breakfast can be a comforting and satisfying start to your day.

FAQs

Can I make the dough for these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can! After the first rise, punch down the dough and store it in the refrigerator overnight. The next morning, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling and filling. This makes preparing the Breakfast Rolls even easier on busy mornings.

Can I freeze these rolls after baking?

Absolutely! Allow the baked Breakfast Rolls to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a warm oven. They will taste just as fresh!

What can I use if I don’t have active dry yeast?

If you don’t have active dry yeast, you can substitute it with instant yeast. The ratio is generally 1:1, but be sure to check the package instructions for the best results. Just ensure the yeast is fresh and the water is warm to activate it so the Breakfast Rolls come out light and fluffy.

Can I use a different type of flour?

While all-purpose flour works best for these Breakfast Rolls, you can experiment with using bread flour for a slightly chewier texture or whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. Keep in mind that using different flours may affect the overall rise and texture of the rolls.

Conclusion

These soft Breakfast Rolls with cinnamon filling are more than just a recipe; they’re a way to connect with loved ones, share cherished memories, and create new traditions. From my grandmother’s kitchen to yours, I hope this recipe brings you as much joy as it has brought my family. And if you are looking for something different, give these homemade McGriddle muffins a try!

Follow us on Social Media : Facebook and Pinterest

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating