These brown butter cinnamon rolls are soft, fluffy, and irresistibly flavorful. With rich brown butter in the dough, filling, and frosting, plus warm spices and a hint of orange zest, every bite is decadent and comforting. Whether you’re new to baking cinnamon rolls or a seasoned pro, this recipe delivers bakery-worthy results every time.

Brown Butter Cinnamon Rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Brown butter adds a deep, nutty richness throughout the rolls.
The filling combines cinnamon, cardamom, and orange zest for a unique twist.
Cream cheese frosting with orange juice balances sweetness with tang.
Perfectly soft and chewy with golden tops.
A showstopping treat for breakfast, brunch, or holidays.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dough:
1 cup buttermilk, warmed (110–115°F)
2 (1/4 oz) packets active-dry yeast
1/3 cup granulated sugar
6 tbsp butter, browned and melted
1 egg + 1 egg yolk, room temperature
1 tsp vanilla bean paste
1/2 tsp salt
4 cups bread flour
Avocado or olive oil, for greasing

For the filling:
8 tbsp unsalted butter, browned and cooled to spreadable consistency
1 cup packed dark brown sugar
1 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon
3/4 tsp cardamom
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp orange zest

For the brown butter cream cheese frosting:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
6 tbsp unsalted butter, browned
1 cup confectioner’s sugar
1 tbsp orange juice
1/2 tbsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Directions

Prepare the dough – Warm buttermilk and sprinkle yeast and sugar on top. Let foam (about 5 minutes). Whisk in browned butter, egg, yolk, and vanilla. Stir in flour and salt until dough forms.
Knead – Turn dough onto a floured surface. Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Grease a bowl, add dough, cover, and let rise until doubled (1–1 1/2 hours).
Make the filling – In a bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, vanilla, and orange zest.
Roll out – Punch down dough and roll into a 20×16-inch rectangle. Spread browned butter over the dough, then sprinkle filling evenly. Press gently into butter.
Shape rolls – Roll tightly from the long side, seam-side down. Slice into 12 rolls using floss or a serrated knife. Arrange in a parchment-lined 9×13-inch dish. Cover and let rise 30–45 minutes until nearly doubled.
Bake – Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake rolls 24–27 minutes, until golden brown. Cool slightly.
Make frosting – Beat cream cheese, browned butter, and sugar until fluffy. Mix in orange juice, vanilla, and salt. Spread over warm rolls.

Servings and timing

Yield: 12 rolls
Prep time: 3 hours (includes rising)
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 3 hours 25 minutes

Variations

Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for crunch.
Swap cardamom for nutmeg or allspice.
Use maple syrup instead of orange juice in the frosting for a fall flavor.
Make mini rolls by slicing into 18 smaller pieces and baking in a larger pan.
Add dried cranberries or raisins for a festive touch.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled rolls covered at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 8–10 minutes or in the microwave for 20–30 seconds. Rolls can also be frozen unfrosted for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm before frosting.

FAQs

What does brown butter add to cinnamon rolls?

Brown butter adds a rich, nutty, caramel-like depth of flavor that elevates the rolls.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active-dry yeast?

Yes, but skip the proofing step and mix directly into the flour.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

It should double in size and spring back slowly when gently poked.

Can I make these overnight?

Yes, prepare and shape rolls, then refrigerate overnight. Let rise at room temperature before baking.

Why are my rolls dense instead of fluffy?

This can happen if the dough wasn’t kneaded enough or didn’t rise long enough.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, but bread flour gives a chewier, fluffier texture.

How do I cut cinnamon rolls neatly?

Use unflavored dental floss or a serrated knife to avoid squishing the dough.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, bake in two pans or a large sheet pan for a crowd.

Can I make them without orange zest?

Yes, but the zest adds a lovely brightness to balance the sweetness.

What’s the best way to serve them?

Warm, with the frosting slightly melted into the rolls.

Conclusion

Brown butter cinnamon rolls are the ultimate comfort bake—soft, fluffy, and loaded with nutty butter, warm spices, and creamy frosting. Whether for a holiday breakfast, special brunch, or indulgent weekend treat, these rolls are guaranteed to impress and satisfy every cinnamon roll craving.