Can I substitute vanilla extract for vanilla bean paste when making brown butter cinnamon rolls?

Yes, you can use vanilla extract instead of vanilla bean paste in an equal amount. While vanilla bean paste offers flecks of vanilla that enhance appearance and flavor, liquid vanilla extract provides a similar taste. Use the same measurement for a consistent vanilla flavor in your cinnamon rolls.

How far in advance can I prepare brown butter cinnamon rolls and can I freeze them?

You can prepare the rolls up to the shaping stage ahead of time. After shaping, cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours or freeze the unbaked rolls by wrapping tightly. Alternatively, bake the rolls first, then freeze the unfrosted rolls for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating by warming in the oven or microwave.

Is it possible to do the final rise for cinnamon rolls overnight in the refrigerator?

Yes, rising the shaped cinnamon rolls overnight in the fridge is a good way to plan ahead. The slow, cold rise develops flavor. Make sure to cover the rolls tightly to prevent drying. Remove them from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to allow them to come closer to room temperature and finish proofing if needed.

What is the best way to store leftover brown butter cinnamon rolls and reheat them?

Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container or tightly covered with plastic wrap. They can be kept at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 6 days. To reheat, place a roll on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds until warm. You can also reheat in a low oven (around 300°F) for 10 minutes for an even warmed texture.

What temperature should I use for baking brown butter cinnamon rolls, and can I use a different size pan?

Bake cinnamon rolls at 350°F (175°C) in a 9x13 inch pan or a pan of similar size to ensure even cooking and rise. Using a smaller pan may cause the rolls to be thicker and require slightly longer baking, while a larger pan might spread them out more. Adjust baking time accordingly, checking for golden tops and fully cooked centers.

Brown Butter Cinnamon Rolls That Are Soft and Flavorful

Name: Brown Butter Cinnamon Rolls That Are Soft, Fluffy, and Packed With Rich Flavor
Prep time: PT-486247H19M1S
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: PT-486248H19M1S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast or 4 1/2 teaspoons instant yeast; 1 cup lukewarm whole milk; 4 to 5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour; 1/2 to 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/2 to 1 cup unsalted butter, plus additional for browning; 3/4 to 1 cup unsalted butter for browning; 1 cup packed dark or light brown sugar; 2 to 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 1 to 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; Pinch of salt; 1/3 to 1/2 cup browned unsalted butter; 2 ounces cream cheese, room temperature; 1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract; 1 tablespoon milk or heavy cream (optional)

Description

🥮 Experience the divine combination of brown butter and cinnamon in soft, fluffy rolls that are a perfect treat for mornings or gatherings.
🍥 These cinnamon rolls are exquisitely rich and flavorful, with a luscious cream cheese frosting that melts deliciously over every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast or 4 1/2 teaspoons instant yeast
1 cup lukewarm whole milk
4 to 5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour
1/2 to 1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 to 1 cup unsalted butter, plus additional for browning
3/4 to 1 cup unsalted butter for browning
1 cup packed dark or light brown sugar
2 to 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1 to 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Pinch of salt
1/3 to 1/2 cup browned unsalted butter
2 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract
1 tablespoon milk or heavy cream (optional)

Instructions

1. Stir yeast with lukewarm milk and optional water and sugar until foamy, about 5–10 minutes. Combine flour, salt, and sugar in a bowl. Add milk-yeast mixture, eggs, and vanilla, mixing until combined. Gradually add butter and knead until smooth and slightly sticky.
2. Cover dough and let rise until doubled, about 1 to 2 hours, or refrigerate overnight for better flavor.
3. Melt butter in a pan over medium heat, stirring until golden and nutty, about 5–7 minutes. Chill until spreadable.
4. Mix browned butter with brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, salt, and vanilla for filling.
5. Roll dough into a rectangle, spread filling, roll into a log, trim uneven ends, and cut into 12 pieces.
6. Place rolls into a greased or parchment-lined dish, let rise until puffy, 45 minutes to 1 hour.
7. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C), bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
8. For frosting, beat browned butter with cream cheese, add powdered sugar, vanilla, salt, and cream until smooth.
9. Spread frosting over warm rolls and serve immediately.

Notes

🧈 Brown all butter at once to save time, cooling to a spreadable consistency.
🌡️ Proof in a warm, draft-free spot; use a warm oven if needed.
✂️ Use floss or a serrated knife to cut rolls without squashing.

Prep Time: 60 minutes
Rising time: 2-3 hours
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 roll
Calories: 350
Sugar: 24g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: Brown Butter, Cinnamon Rolls, Fluffy, Rich Flavor