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; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup whole milk, warmed; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the warm, gooey delight of Braided Cinnamon Buns, perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat any time of day.

Created by

Rachel Green

Last updated on 2025-12-21T09:21:01.516Z

These Braided Cinnamon Buns are a delightful combination of soft, sweet dough and aromatic cinnamon filling. The braided shape not only looks impressive but also maximizes the deliciously spiced flavor in every bite. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy weekend brunch, these buns are sure to become a family favorite.

        Why You'll Love These Braided Cinnamon Buns
        Soft and fluffy texture with a sweet cinnamon swirl
Beautifully braided for an impressive presentation
Perfectly paired with a cup of coffee or tea

      

A Perfect Breakfast Treat

Braided Cinnamon Buns are not just any ordinary pastry; they elevate your breakfast experience to new heights. The soft and fluffy dough paired with a rich cinnamon filling creates a delightful combination that is hard to resist. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven, and you’ll find that the sweet aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table.

These buns are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer them plain or with a sweet glaze, they make for an indulgent breakfast or a delightful snack throughout the day. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for an extra touch of comfort during your morning routine.

Impressive Yet Simple

One of the best aspects of Braided Cinnamon Buns is their impressive appearance. The braided design not only makes them visually appealing but also allows for a delicious swirl of cinnamon goodness in every bite. This makes them a great choice for gatherings or special occasions where you want to showcase your baking skills.

Despite their beautiful presentation, these buns are surprisingly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a bakery-quality treat in the comfort of your home. The process is fun and rewarding, making it a perfect activity for baking enthusiasts of all levels.

Customizable and Fun

While the classic version of Braided Cinnamon Buns is a favorite, you can easily customize the filling to suit your taste. Consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for an extra twist. This versatility allows you to experiment and create your unique flavor combinations, ensuring that every batch is a little different and exciting.

Baking these buns can also be a fun activity to enjoy with family or friends. Get the kids involved in rolling out the dough or braiding the buns, creating memories while teaching them valuable baking skills. It’s a wonderful way to bond over a shared love for delicious food.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Braided Cinnamon Buns:

Dough

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

Filling

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

Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure you have all the ingredients ready before you start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your Braided Cinnamon Buns:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Add melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually stir in flour until a soft dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Make the Filling

In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon with the softened butter until well combined.

Shape the Buns

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough. Cut the dough into strips and braid them together. Place the braided dough onto a greased baking sheet.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the braided buns rise for an additional 30 minutes, then bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Glaze the Buns

While the buns are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Drizzle over the warm buns once they are out of the oven.

Allow the buns to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Buns

To achieve the perfect texture in your Braided Cinnamon Buns, ensure that your dough has risen adequately. A warm environment is key; consider placing your dough in an oven with the light on or near a warm surface. The dough should double in size, which results in light and fluffy buns.

When rolling out the dough, aim for an even thickness to ensure consistent baking. If you find that the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed. Remember, a well-kneaded dough is crucial for the buns to hold their shape and achieve that desired fluffy texture.

Serving Suggestions

These Braided Cinnamon Buns are delightful on their own, but serving them warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can take them to another level. They also pair beautifully with fresh fruits like berries or sliced bananas, adding a refreshing contrast to the sweet cinnamon flavor.

For a breakfast spread, consider serving these buns alongside a selection of cheeses and charcuterie. This creates a delicious balance of flavors and makes for a visually appealing brunch table that your guests will love.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, store your Braided Cinnamon Buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just wrap each bun tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at a low temperature or microwave them for a few seconds. This will restore their soft, gooey texture, making them almost as good as fresh out of the oven. Enjoy them warm for a comforting treat anytime!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these buns ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and filling a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just let the dough come to room temperature before shaping.

→ Can I freeze the unbaked buns?

Absolutely! Once shaped, you can freeze the buns before the final rise. Just thaw and let them rise before baking.

→ What can I substitute for whole milk?

You can use almond milk or any other dairy-free milk as a substitute.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.