Scandinavian Inspired Cinnamon Rolls

Inspired by the cosy bakeries of Scandinavia, these cinnamon rolls are soft, rich, and spiced just right. Filled with butter, cinnamon and dark brown sugar. They’re perfect served warm with a coffee or as a weekend treat for the whole family.

Vegan-friendly options included below, so everyone can enjoy! 

Ingredients (Makes 9-12)

Dough: 

500g strong white bread flour 

75g caster sugar 

1 tsp salt 

10g instant yeast 

250ml whole milk (or unsweetened oat/soy milk for vegan) 

75g unsalted butter (or vegan block butter), softened 

1 large egg (omit for vegan; add 30ml more plant milk instead) 

Filling: 

75g very soft butter (or vegan butter) 

100g dark soft brown sugar 

2 tbsp ground cinnamon 

Optional: a pinch of salt or some finely grated orange zest 

Glaze or Icing: 

Simple icing: 100g icing sugar + 1–2 tbsp milk or plant milk 

Cream cheese glaze: 100g icing sugar + 50g soft cream cheese (vegan or regular) + 1 tbsp milk 

How to do 

1. Make the Dough 

1. Warm the milk until just lukewarm (not hot). Stir in the yeast and let it sit for a few minutes to activate. 

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. 

3. Add the milk-yeast mixture, softened butter, and egg (if using). 

4. Mix everything together, then knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is soft, stretchy, and smooth. 

5. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours or refrigerate overnight for a slow proof and deeper flavour. 

2. Fill and Shape 

1. On a floured surface, roll the dough out into a rectangle about 40 x 30 cm. 

2. In a small bowl, mix the dark brown sugar and cinnamon. 

3. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top. 

4. Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log. Trim the ends, then cut into 9–12 even rolls. 

5. Place the rolls into a lined or greased baking tin (about 30 x 25 cm), leaving space between them to rise. 

6. Cover and let rise again for 45–60 minutes, until the rolls look puffy and nearly doubled. 

3. Bake 

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan). 

2. Bake the buns for 20–25 minutes, until golden on top and cooked through. 

4. Glaze 

1. Let the buns cool for about 10–15 minutes so the glaze doesn’t melt straight off. 

2. Drizzle with your chosen glaze — either simple icing or cream cheese glaze for extra indulgence.