Braided Cinnamon Buns

Name: Braided Cinnamon Buns
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 12 buns
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast; 1/2 cup milk, warmed; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional); 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the warm, sweet aroma of freshly baked Braided Cinnamon Buns, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2025-12-21T01:05:57.876Z

These Braided Cinnamon Buns are a delightful treat that combines the warm spices of cinnamon with a fluffy, tender dough. Perfect for any occasion, they can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or saved for later. The braided shape not only looks impressive but also allows for a generous swirl of cinnamon filling in every bite.

        Why You'll Love These Braided Cinnamon Buns
        Soft and fluffy texture that’s irresistible
Rich cinnamon flavor with a hint of sweetness
Beautiful braided presentation for special occasions

      

The Perfect Breakfast Treat

Braided Cinnamon Buns are not just a delightful indulgence; they make for a perfect breakfast treat that brings the whole family together. Imagine waking up to the scent of cinnamon wafting through your home, inviting everyone to gather around the table. These buns offer a warm, comforting start to the day, and their soft, fluffy texture makes them a joy to eat. Whether served with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk, they are sure to please everyone at the breakfast table.

For those special weekend brunches or holiday mornings, these braided cinnamon buns elevate the occasion. Their beautiful presentation adds a touch of elegance, making them ideal for gatherings with family and friends. You can easily customize them with your favorite nuts or even a sprinkle of raisins, ensuring that each batch is unique and tailored to your taste.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Braided Cinnamon Buns, it’s essential to pay attention to the dough. Make sure your yeast is fresh and that you let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area. This ensures that the yeast activates properly, resulting in a light and airy bun. Kneading the dough adequately is crucial to develop the gluten structure, which contributes to the perfect texture.

Don't rush the rising process; allowing the dough to double in size is key to achieving that pillowy softness. If your kitchen is a bit chilly, you can place the dough in an oven preheated to the lowest setting, then turn it off, creating a warm environment for the dough to rise. These small tips can make a significant difference in the final outcome of your baked goods.

Serving Suggestions

These Braided Cinnamon Buns are delicious on their own, but you can also elevate your serving experience. Consider pairing them with a dollop of cream cheese frosting for an extra layer of sweetness. Fresh fruits, such as sliced strawberries or blueberries, can add a refreshing contrast to the rich cinnamon flavor, making your breakfast or afternoon tea even more delightful.

For a festive touch, serve these buns warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce. They can also be a great addition to a dessert table, surrounded by other baked goods. No matter how you choose to serve them, these cinnamon buns are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

Dough

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

Filling

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix the dough ingredients until a soft ball forms, then let it rise until doubled in size.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, melted butter, eggs, salt, and the yeast mixture.

Mix until a dough forms.

Knead and Rise

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined. If using, stir in chopped nuts.

Shape the Buns

Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread the filling evenly, and cut into strips. Braid the strips together and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the braided buns rise for another 30 minutes, then bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Glaze the Buns

While the buns cool, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze. Drizzle over the cooled buns before serving.

Enjoy warm or at room temperature. These buns also freeze well for future indulgence.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover Braided Cinnamon Buns, storing them properly can keep them fresh for days. Allow the buns to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for a couple of days, or you can refrigerate them for up to a week. If you choose to freeze them, wrap each bun tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat the buns in the oven at a low temperature, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until warm. This will bring back their soft and fluffy texture, making them taste freshly baked.

Customizing Your Buns

One of the best aspects of Braided Cinnamon Buns is their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different fillings to suit your preferences. You can add chocolate chips for a decadent twist, or swap out the nuts for dried fruits like cranberries or apricots. If you prefer a cream cheese filling, simply mix softened cream cheese with a bit of sugar and vanilla for a rich and creamy alternative.

Additionally, you can adjust the level of sweetness in the glaze to your liking. Adding a pinch of salt to the glaze can balance the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the buns. The options are endless, allowing you to make each batch a reflection of your unique taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator.

→ How do I store leftover buns?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but the texture may differ slightly.

→ What can I use instead of nuts?

You can leave out the nuts or substitute with dried fruits like raisins or cranberries.