Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls (Ooey Gooey) Recipe
If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to the smell of warm, gooey cinnamon rolls but dreaded the all-day wait, you are absolutely going to adore this Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls (Ooey Gooey) Recipe. It combines rich cinnamon-sugar filling with a soft, tender dough and a luscious cream cheese glaze, all baked fresh and ready to devour in just about 60 minutes. These cinnamon rolls are the perfect balance of sweet, buttery, and spiced, delivering that melt-in-your-mouth experience without the marathon bake time. Whether it’s a special weekend treat or a quick indulgence, this recipe turns cinnamon roll cravings into a delightful reality in no time!

Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls (Ooey Gooey) Recipe lies in its straightforward and classic ingredients. Every item is chosen not only for taste but to create the tender, fluffy texture and that irresistible gooey center we all crave. From the warm milk that activates the yeast for a quick rise, to the rich cream cheese that makes the glaze so dreamy, these essentials come together perfectly with just a little love and care.
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and softness for the dough to rise beautifully.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just a hint of sweetness to balance the flavors.
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast: The key to that quick rise and fluffy texture without waiting hours.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and buttery flavors in the dough.
- 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C): Activates the yeast and helps create a tender crumb.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
- 1 large egg: Gives structure and a lovely golden color.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling): Creates that ooey gooey texture inside every roll.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Delivers deep caramel notes to the cinnamon filling.
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: The star spice that defines these rolls.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: For the creamy, tangy glaze everyone will love.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for glaze): Makes the frosting luxuriously smooth.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the glaze to perfect balance.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cream cheese frosting.
- 2-3 tablespoons milk: Adjusts the glaze to just the right drizzling consistency.
How to Make Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls (Ooey Gooey) Recipe
Step 1: Mix and Knead the Dough
Start by combining 2 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Pour in the warm milk, melted butter, and the egg, then stir until smooth. Gradually mix in the remaining flour until the dough gets soft but manageable. Turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic – this is where the magic starts, as kneading activates the gluten that will give your rolls that tender, fluffy texture. After kneading, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rest for 10 minutes — this brief rest helps the dough relax and rise just enough to work beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling
While the dough is resting, whip up the filling by mixing softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. This combination creates the lush, sweet, and spicy center that is the essence of every fantastic cinnamon roll. Don’t skimp on the cinnamon or butter here – it’s what makes each bite ooey and gooey, with lots of that rich caramelized yum.
Step 3: Roll and Fill the Dough
Roll the rested dough out on a floured surface into a 12-by-15 inch rectangle. This shape gives you the perfect size for all 12 rolls, ensuring each bite has the right swirl of dough and filling. Spread the cinnamon butter mixture evenly over the surface, covering every inch with that irresistible lusciousness. Then roll the dough tightly from one long edge to the other, like a cinnamon roll scroll. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the roll into 12 even slices, taking care to keep those beautiful swirls intact.
Step 4: Rise and Bake
Place your rolls in a greased baking dish, giving a little space between each one so they can puff up perfectly. Cover the dish and let them rise for 15 minutes — this final proof will make them soft and pillowy. During this rise, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). When ready, bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes or until they’re golden brown on top with bubbling, caramelized edges. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is just heavenly and almost impossible to resist.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze and Drizzle
While the rolls bake, blend together softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk until smooth and creamy. This glaze is the perfect finishing touch, balancing the spice and sweetness while adding a velvety texture that melts right into the warm rolls. Drizzle it generously over the hot cinnamon rolls straight from the oven, then watch as it melts into every crevice, creating that iconic ooey gooey finish that makes this recipe so special.
How to Serve Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls (Ooey Gooey) Recipe

Garnishes
Adding a simple garnish can elevate your cinnamon rolls to the next level of fabulous. Consider sprinkling a little extra cinnamon on top of the glaze or adding chopped pecans or walnuts for some delightful crunch. Freshly sliced strawberries or a few edible flowers can also bring a fresh contrast to the rich sweetness, making these not only delicious but gorgeous for sharing.
Side Dishes
Because these cinnamon rolls are rich and indulgent, pair them with light sides like fresh fruit salad or a tangy yogurt parfait to balance the meal. A steaming cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk is a classic match that complements the rolls’ buttery sweetness wonderfully, turning your snack or breakfast into a complete experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For holidays or brunch parties, serve your cinnamon rolls on a tiered dessert tray or arrange them on a rustic wooden board with colorful linen napkins. Drizzle some extra glaze in a zigzag pattern or dust with cinnamon sugar for a charming finish. You could even slice and stack them in individual small bowls for a cozy, shareable vibe. Presentation is half the fun, and with these rolls, the cozy, inviting look is effortless.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls (Ooey Gooey) Recipe? No problem! Keep them fresh by placing cooled rolls in an airtight container or wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps the rolls soft and prevents the glaze from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy your cinnamon rolls later, freeze them before baking by wrapping the rolled and sliced dough tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. They’ll keep for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and let them rise before baking as directed.
Reheating
Warm leftover cinnamon rolls in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5 to 10 minutes to restore that fresh-from-the-oven softness. If you want the glaze melty again, add a little extra drizzle of glaze after reheating. This quick step makes them feel freshly baked all over again!
FAQs
How do you get cinnamon rolls to be gooey?
The secret to super gooey cinnamon rolls is using plenty of softened butter and packed brown sugar in the filling, which melts during baking to form a luscious caramel-like center. Also, a creamy glaze added warm intensifies the ooey gooey texture.
Can I make this recipe without yeast?
This Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls (Ooey Gooey) Recipe depends on yeast to rise quickly and develop the soft texture. Without yeast, the dough won’t have the same fluffy qualities, so it’s best to stick with yeast or explore other recipes designed specifically for no-yeast rolls.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in the glaze?
If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, you can replace it with mascarpone or Greek yogurt thickened with a bit of powdered sugar. The flavor will be slightly different, but the creamy consistency will still work wonderfully.
Is it necessary to let the dough rest twice?
Yes, allowing the dough to rest helps relax the gluten which makes rolling easier, and a second, shorter rise ensures the rolls are light, airy, and tender. Both steps are crucial for achieving the perfect texture in this quick cinnamon rolls recipe.
Can I prepare the dough the night before?
While this recipe is designed to be quick, you can prepare the dough in the evening and refrigerate it overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before rolling, then proceed with filling and baking the next day.
Final Thoughts
There is truly nothing like indulging in fresh, warm cinnamon rolls with a creamy glaze dripping down the sides, and this Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls (Ooey Gooey) Recipe makes it delightfully achievable for anyone. Whether it’s a special weekend breakfast, a comfort-food lunchbox surprise, or an anytime treat, these cinnamon rolls will win over hearts and taste buds alike. So go ahead, treat yourself and those you love — you’ll be so happy you did!
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Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls (Ooey Gooey) Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
These Easy One Hour Cinnamon Rolls are soft, fluffy, and ooey gooey with a rich cinnamon-sugar filling and a creamy cream cheese glaze. Perfect for a quick homemade treat, they come together with minimal rise time but maximum flavor, making them ideal for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
Dough
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Glaze
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Add the warm milk, melted butter, and egg to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth and fully incorporated. Gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rest for 10 minutes to relax gluten and make it easier to roll out.
- Make the filling: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon thoroughly until well combined and spreadable.
- Roll and fill the dough: Roll the rested dough into a 12 by 15-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Evenly spread the cinnamon-brown sugar filling over the dough, making sure to cover the entire surface.
- Shape the rolls: Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 even rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.
- Proof the rolls: Place the cut rolls into a greased baking dish. Cover loosely with a towel or plastic wrap and let them rise for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls: Bake the cinnamon rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
- Prepare the glaze: While the rolls bake, combine the softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 2-3 tablespoons of milk in a bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Glaze and serve: Remove the rolls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Drizzle the cream cheese glaze generously over the warm rolls and enjoy the ooey gooey goodness.
Notes
- Use warm milk around 110°F to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Do not over knead; the dough should be elastic but still soft.
- For softer rolls, you can cover them with a clean kitchen towel during rising to prevent drying.
- If you want even richer rolls, brush the rolls with melted butter immediately after baking before glazing.
- Adjust milk quantity in glaze to achieve your preferred consistency—thicker or more drizzle-like.
- These rolls are best eaten fresh but can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American