Yeast Cinnamon Roll Recipe Showdown: Fluffy vs. Sourdough

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Welcome to the ultimate breakfast bake-off, my friend! Whether you’re searching for the perfect yeast cinnamon roll recipe or living that slow-rise, sourdough life, this post has you covered.

In this cinnamon roll showdown, I’m sharing BOTH recipes—my original sourdough favorite and a new yeast-based version for the busy baker with zero time for starter drama.

You get to pick your cinnamon roll destiny



Yeast cinnamon roll recipe served in a cast iron skillet with melted cream cheese icing – cozy farmhouse breakfast fresh from the oven.

Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Slow and soulful. Tangy, rich, and worth every minute.
Already dreaming of the OG sourdough version? Click here to view the full recipe.

These rolls have a soft tang from the fermented dough, with a rich cinnamon swirl and velvety cream cheese frosting that just melts over the top. Perfect for weekend baking or when you want to impress the in-laws.


Yeast Cinnamon Roll Recipe (Quick & Fluffy Version)

(The fast, fluffy cousin to sourdough—and every bit as dreamy.)

No Starter? This Yeast Cinnamon Roll Recipe Has You Covered

Ingredients:

Dough:

  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt

Filling:

  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • ⅓ cup softened butter

Icing:

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tbsp butter, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • 1–2 tbsp milk (to desired consistency)

Instructions:

Activate the Yeast:
To start, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar in a large bowl or stand mixer. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy and fragrant.

Mix the Dough:
After that, add the eggs and melted butter. Then gradually mix in the flour and salt until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Knead the dough for 6–8 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic.

Let It Rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a towel or plastic wrap. Set it in a warm place for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Roll and Fill:
Once risen, punch the dough down gently. On a floured surface, roll it into a 16×12″ rectangle. Spread softened butter all over the surface, and sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly.

Slice and Arrange:
Next, roll the dough tightly from the long edge to form a log. Slice into 12 equal pieces using floss or a sharp knife. Carefully arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13″ pan.

Second Rise & Preheat:
While the rolls rise again for 30–40 minutes, preheat your oven to 350°F. They should puff up a bit more and look cozy in the pan.

Bake to Golden Glory:
Once risen, bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown. The tops should be lightly toasted and your kitchen will smell amazing.

Frost and Serve:
Finally, whip together the icing and spread it on while the rolls are still warm. As a result, it’ll melt into every swirl like sweet, creamy magic. Try not to eat them all in one sitting!


Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional!)

Want a little sunshine in your cinnamon swirl? Try this lemon twist!

Ingredients:

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tbsp butter, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

Whip until smooth. Frost generously and inhale that sweet citrus goodness.


Printable Yeast Cinnamon Rolls Recipe Cards

Want to take this recipe offline?
Click below to download your free printable version of my Yeast Cinnamon Roll Recipe—styled in true SimplyBlessedDesignz fashion, perfect for your kitchen binder or fridge display!

👉 Download the Printable Recipe Card (PDF)

Want to try the Sourdough version instead?
I’ve got you covered, friend!
👉 Download the Sourdough Buns & Blessings Printable (PDF)


Tell Me—Which Roll Wins in Your Kitchen?

Are you team tangy or team fluffy? Leave a comment and let me know which version you’re baking first! And if you snap a photo, tag me @SimplyBlessedDesignz—I love seeing your creations!


📌 Pin Now – Bake Later!

Want to remember this Cinnamon Roll Showdown?
Tap the image below to Pin it and come back later!

Scripture to Savor:

“Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!”
Psalm 34:8 (NLT)


I do most of my pantry shopping through Thrive Market—because driving all over town for flour, spices, and clean baking ingredients just ain’t it.

Use my link to get 40% off your first order, and if you fall in love with Thrive (like I did), I’ll get a little something too. It’s a win-win—and your cinnamon rolls will thank you. 😉


This post is part of my SimplyBlessedDesignz Kitchen collection—where faith, food, and farmhouse charm meet. See more at SimplyBlessedDesignz.com

About the Host

Hey sweet friend — I’m Ashley, the heart behind SimplyBlessedDesignz and the voice of Unscripted Conversations.
I’m a faith-filled creative who believes in Jesus, Dollar Tree flips, and showing up even when life gets messy. Whether I’m podcasting, crafting, or cooking something from scratch, my prayer is always the same: that you leave here encouraged and reminded you’re never alone.
Grab your coffee, pull up a chair, and let’s do this life—one grace-filled day at a time. 💛

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