Valentine’s Day is all about love, and what better way to show someone you care than by making a batch of heart-shaped cinnamon rolls? These warm, gooey, and delicious rolls are a perfect treat for your loved ones. The sweet cinnamon filling, combined with the soft, fluffy dough and topped with a creamy glaze, makes these rolls an irresistible breakfast or dessert for any special occasion. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day with a romantic partner, friends, or family, these heart-shaped cinnamon rolls are sure to spread joy and sweetness.
This recipe is easy to make and can be enjoyed as a fun activity to do with kids or a partner. The heart shape adds an extra touch of love, making these rolls even more special. Perfect for breakfast in bed, a brunch gathering, or a sweet surprise, these Valentine’s cinnamon rolls will be the highlight of any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Perfect for Valentine’s Day
These heart-shaped cinnamon rolls are the perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day. They’re both festive and delicious, making them an ideal treat for the occasion.
2. Easy to Make
With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up these cinnamon rolls in no time, even if you’re not an experienced baker.
3. Customizable
You can adjust the sweetness and the filling according to your taste. Add extra cinnamon or a touch of vanilla to make them your own.
4. Warm and Gooey
The cinnamon filling and creamy glaze create the perfect texture, making each bite warm, gooey, and full of flavor.
5. Ideal for Sharing
These rolls are perfect for sharing with loved ones, making them an excellent choice for breakfast or brunch with family and friends.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Instant yeast
- Salt
- Milk
- Butter
- Egg
For the filling:
- Brown sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Butter
For the glaze:
- Powdered sugar
- Milk
- Vanilla extract
Variations
- Cream Cheese Glaze: Substitute the vanilla glaze with a creamy cream cheese frosting for a richer, tangier topping.
- Nutty Cinnamon Rolls: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon sugar filling for a crunchy twist.
- Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls: Spread a layer of Nutella or melted chocolate along with the cinnamon filling for a chocolatey version of the rolls.
- Vegan Version: Use non-dairy milk and butter substitutes for a vegan-friendly cinnamon roll.
- Add Fruit: You can add diced strawberries or raspberries into the filling for a fruity burst of flavor.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter over low heat until the butter is melted. Let the milk mixture cool until it’s warm to the touch. In a large bowl, combine the warm milk mixture, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to activate the yeast.
Once the yeast is activated, add the egg, salt, and flour, a little at a time, until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
After the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle, about 12 x 18 inches. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture over the butter, covering it evenly.
Step 3: Shape the Cinnamon Rolls
Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it. Use a sharp knife to cut the roll into individual pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. To create the heart shape, place each roll on its side and gently pinch the edges to form a heart shape, or simply arrange the rolls in a baking dish to form hearts as they bake.
Step 4: Let the Rolls Rise
Place the shaped cinnamon rolls on a greased or lined baking dish, leaving some space between each one. Cover them with a towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Step 5: Bake the Cinnamon Rolls
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 18-22 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
While the cinnamon rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. If you prefer a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar; for a thinner glaze, add a bit more milk.
Step 7: Drizzle and Serve
Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool slightly. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls and serve immediately for a gooey, sweet treat.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your milk and butter are at the right temperature to activate the yeast and help the dough rise properly.
- Don’t Overmix: Be gentle when kneading the dough. Overworking it can result in tough rolls.
- Proofing the Dough: Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area to ensure it doubles in size. If your kitchen is cold, you can turn on the oven for a few minutes, then turn it off and place the dough inside to rise.
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cinnamon rolls as they bake, as overbaking can make them dry. They should be golden and slightly firm to the touch.
- Use Fresh Yeast: Be sure to use fresh, active yeast for the best rise and fluffiness. If the yeast doesn’t bubble after being activated, discard the mixture and start again with new yeast.
How to Serve
These Valentine heart-shaped cinnamon rolls are perfect served warm for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of fresh juice for a complete treat. They’re also a great option for a dessert at any Valentine’s Day celebration, perfect for serving to family, friends, or that special someone.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cinnamon rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you’d like to keep them fresh for longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.
Freezing
These cinnamon rolls freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, place the cinnamon rolls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I use a store-bought dough for this recipe?
Yes, you can use store-bought pizza dough or biscuit dough to save time, but homemade dough adds a richer flavor and texture to the rolls.
2. Can I make these cinnamon rolls in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls up to the point where they are shaped, then refrigerate them overnight. Let them rise at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking the next day.
3. Can I use brown sugar in the glaze?
Yes, brown sugar can be used in the glaze for a deeper, caramelized flavor.
4. Can I make these rolls without a glaze?
Yes, the cinnamon rolls are delicious on their own, but the glaze adds a sweet finishing touch. Feel free to omit it if you prefer.
5. Can I make these rolls vegan?
Yes, substitute the butter with plant-based butter and the milk with a non-dairy alternative, such as almond milk, to make these rolls vegan.
6. Can I add nuts to the cinnamon rolls?
Yes, you can add chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the filling for extra crunch and flavor.
7. Can I use a different shape for these rolls?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can shape the rolls into traditional spiral cinnamon rolls or use a different festive shape.
8. How long do these cinnamon rolls last?
These rolls will last for about 2-3 days at room temperature, or up to a week in the fridge.
9. Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free. Just be sure to follow the flour’s guidelines for substitutions.
10. Can I freeze the dough before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped rolls before baking. Let them rise in the fridge overnight, then bake as usual the next morning.
Conclusion
These Valentine Heart Shaped Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect way to show love and care this Valentine’s Day. Soft, warm, and gooey, they’re filled with cinnamon and sugar and topped with a sweet glaze. Whether for a romantic breakfast in bed, a brunch gathering, or as a fun family baking activity, these rolls will make your celebration even sweeter. They’re simple to make, customizable, and sure to bring joy to anyone who tastes them!
Print
Valentine Heart Shaped Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 8–10 heart-shaped cinnamon rolls 1x
Description
These Valentine Heart Shaped Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect sweet treat for a special morning or celebration. Soft, fluffy dough filled with a rich cinnamon-sugar mixture, rolled into heart shapes and drizzled with sweet cream cheese frosting—these are as delicious as they are adorable!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 cup Warm Milk (110°F or 45°C)
- 2 1/4 tsp Active Dry Yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter, softened
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 3 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 large Egg
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter, softened
- 3/4 cup Brown Sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp Ground Cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp Salt
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz Cream Cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups Powdered Sugar
- 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1–2 tbsp Milk (to reach desired consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough:
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir until the yeast is dissolved, then let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes foamy. - In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, salt, and vanilla extract. Add the yeast mixture and the egg, and stir to combine. Gradually add the flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the cinnamon filling:
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until smooth and well combined. - Shape the rolls:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle (about 12×18 inches). - Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting at one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice the log into 8-10 equal pieces.
- To create the heart shape, take each slice and roll it into a ball, then pinch the top slightly to form the top of the heart. Lay each shaped piece of dough in a greased baking pan, arranging them close together.
- Bake the rolls:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the rolls rise for an additional 15-20 minutes, then bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown. - Make the frosting:
While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then beat in the milk a little at a time until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. - Serve:
Once the rolls are done baking, allow them to cool for about 10 minutes before drizzling with the cream cheese frosting. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- If you want to make these ahead, you can prepare the rolls up to the point of baking, then cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. The next morning, just let them sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking.
- Feel free to add a few drops of food coloring to the frosting for a festive touch, or top the rolls with sprinkles for extra fun!
- You can use store-bought frosting if you’re in a pinch, but homemade is always better!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus rise time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cinnamon rolls, heart-shaped, Valentine’s Day, dessert, sweet rolls, cream cheese frosting