Braided Cinnamon Buns

Name: Braided Cinnamon Buns
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 buns
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 cup whole milk, warmed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 tbsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2-3 tbsp milk; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the delightful aroma and flavor of homemade Braided Cinnamon Buns. These soft, fluffy treats are perfect for breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack.

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2025-12-21T08:50:59.999Z

These Braided Cinnamon Buns are a family favorite, often made during weekends or special occasions. The rich cinnamon filling and the soft dough create a perfect combination that is hard to resist.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm, gooey cinnamon filling that tantalizes your taste buds
Fluffy texture that is perfect for pulling apart
A visually stunning presentation that impresses guests

      

The Perfect Breakfast Treat

There's nothing quite like starting your day with a warm, homemade baked good, and these Braided Cinnamon Buns are no exception. Their irresistible aroma fills your kitchen, creating a welcoming atmosphere for family and friends. Not only do they taste divine, but they also provide a comforting, nostalgic experience that many people cherish. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea, these buns make for a delightful way to kick off your morning.

These buns are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can serve them at a festive brunch, during holiday gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat on a cozy weekend. Their braided shape adds a touch of elegance to the table, making them a showstopper that is sure to impress your guests. You might even find yourself making them a regular feature at your breakfast table.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect texture in your Braided Cinnamon Buns, it's essential to knead the dough thoroughly. This process develops the gluten, resulting in a soft and fluffy bun that pulls apart beautifully. Remember to keep an eye on the dough during the rising stages. If your kitchen is particularly cold, it might take a bit longer to rise. Don't rush this step; the dough should double in size for the best results.

Another tip is to ensure your butter is at the right temperature when spreading it on the dough. Softened butter allows for an even distribution of the cinnamon-sugar filling, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor. Additionally, when braiding the dough, don’t worry about perfection. The beauty of these buns lies in their homemade charm, and a slightly imperfect braid adds to their appeal.

Storing and Serving Your Buns

If you have any leftovers, storing your Braided Cinnamon Buns is easy. Simply place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and freezing them. When you're ready to enjoy them again, just pop them in the oven to warm up. This will revive their soft texture, making them taste freshly baked.

Serving these buns warm is highly recommended, as the gooey cinnamon filling tastes best when it's just out of the oven. Drizzling the icing over them right before serving adds an extra layer of sweetness that elevates the overall flavor. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with loved ones, these Braided Cinnamon Buns are sure to become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious buns:

Dough Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup whole milk, warmed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract

Cinnamon Filling Ingredients

1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp ground cinnamon
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

Icing Ingredients

1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tbsp milk
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Make sure to prepare these ingredients in advance for a smooth baking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Braided Cinnamon Buns:

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warmed milk, yeast, and sugar. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Add melted butter, eggs, salt, and vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth.

Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Make the Filling

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together. Set aside.

Roll and Fill

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top. Roll the dough tightly into a log.

Braid the Dough

Cut the log into 12 equal pieces. Take 3 pieces and braid them together. Repeat with the remaining pieces. Place the braided buns on a greased baking sheet.

Final Rise

Cover the buns and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool.

Prepare the Icing

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled buns before serving.

Enjoy your freshly baked Braided Cinnamon Buns!

Common Variations

While the classic cinnamon filling is a favorite, you can easily switch things up by incorporating different ingredients. Consider adding nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can also enhance the flavor profile, providing a sweet and chewy contrast to the soft bun. Feel free to experiment and create your own signature version of these delicious treats.

Another variation is to use flavored extracts in place of vanilla. Almond or maple extract can impart a unique twist that complements the cinnamon beautifully. Additionally, you could try using a cream cheese filling instead of the traditional cinnamon-sugar mixture for a richer taste that pairs wonderfully with the sweet icing.

Serving Suggestions

These Braided Cinnamon Buns are delightful on their own, but pairing them with other breakfast items can create a more filling meal. Consider serving them alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, or scrambled eggs to balance the sweetness. A side of coffee or herbal tea can also enhance the experience, making it a perfect brunch spread.

For a special occasion, you might even consider presenting them on a platter with various toppings, allowing guests to customize their buns with additional icing, nuts, or fruit preserves. This interactive element can make for a fun and memorable gathering, encouraging everyone to enjoy the delicious, warm cinnamon buns in their own unique way.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

→ How do I store leftover buns?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.

→ What can I use instead of butter for the filling?

You can use margarine or coconut oil as a substitute for butter in the filling.