Perfect Christmas Cinnamon Buns — Sticky Sweet Morning Treats

Cinnamon buns are the Christmas morning classic. Sticky; gooey; make-ahead.

The classic recipe (makes 12)

Dough

• 4 cups flour
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 packet yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm milk
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 2 large eggs

Filling

• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon
• 1/2 cup softened butter

Glaze

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 4 tablespoons cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons milk

Method

1. Mix dough; knead 8 min; rise 1 hour
2. Roll into 12x18 rectangle
3. Spread softened butter
4. Sprinkle brown sugar + cinnamon
5. Roll into log; cut 12 pieces
6. Place in greased 9x13 pan
7. Cover; rise 30 min OR refrigerate overnight
8. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 min
9. Mix glaze; drizzle warm

Make-ahead

Overnight method

• Assemble; refrigerate overnight
• Take out 30 min before baking
• Bake fresh Christmas morning

Variations

• Pecan caramel sticky buns
• Maple cinnamon
• Chocolate-hazelnut
• Eggnog glaze

Cross-references

For perfect Christmas cinnamon rolls — adjacent.

For perfect Christmas french toast casserole — adjacent.

For Christmas morning traditions — adjacent.

For Christmas breakfast ideas — broader.

Perfect Christmas cinnamon buns are sticky sweet morning magic. Make-ahead. Bake fresh. The Christmas morning treat.