Heart-Shaped Cinnamon Rolls

These Heart-Shaped Cinnamon Rolls are soft, fluffy, and filled with warm cinnamon sugar—perfect for a cozy breakfast or a sweet treat any time of day. The cute heart shape makes…

By Willow • February 1, 2026 • Reading time: 6 min

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These Heart-Shaped Cinnamon Rolls are soft, fluffy, and filled with warm cinnamon sugar—perfect for a cozy breakfast or a sweet treat any time of day. The cute heart shape makes them extra special and fun to enjoy with loved ones.

I love making these when I want to add a little love to the table. Rolling the dough into hearts is such a simple step but it really brightens up the whole experience. Plus, the smell of cinnamon baking fills the kitchen and makes everyone smile before they even take a bite.

My favorite way to eat these rolls is fresh out of the oven with a drizzle of icing on top and a cup of coffee or tea. They’re great for sharing on Valentine’s Day or any morning you want to start with something sweet and cheerful. I promise, once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Yeast: Active dry yeast helps the dough rise and get fluffy. If you can’t find it, instant yeast works too—you can mix it straight in without proofing.

Milk: Warm milk activates the yeast and makes the dough tender. You can swap cow’s milk with almond, oat, or soy milk for dairy-free options.

Butter: Butter gives richness and flavor. Use vegan butter or coconut oil if you need a dairy-free substitute.

Brown Sugar and Cinnamon: The sweet cinnamon filling is the star here. You can add nutmeg or cardamom for a twist or substitute coconut sugar for a less refined option.

Flour: All-purpose flour is standard, but you can try a blend with whole wheat for a nuttier taste. Just expect the rolls to be a bit denser.

Icing: Simple powdered sugar icing is great, but cream cheese frosting also pairs beautifully if you want something richer.

How Do You Shape the Dough Into Perfect Hearts?

Turning your cinnamon roll dough into hearts is easier with a clear step-by-step approach:

• Roll the dough into a large rectangle evenly, about 12×18 inches.
• Spread softened butter and sprinkle your cinnamon sugar filling all the way to the edges.
• Roll both long edges of the rectangle inward tightly so they meet in the middle, creating two logs side by side.
• Slice the double roll down the middle lengthwise using a sharp knife to get two long strips.
• Hold each strip with the rolled sides facing up, pinch the top to join the two spirals.
• Press them gently but firmly from top to bottom so the rolls open slightly to form a heart shape.
• Slice each formed heart roll into your desired thickness, usually 1-1.5 inches.

Handling the dough gently but firmly helps keep the shape intact. If your dough feels sticky, lightly flour your hands and knife.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl – to mix and proof the yeast dough comfortably.
• Rolling pin – helps you roll the dough out evenly to form the rectangle.
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter – makes clean cuts to shape the cinnamon rolls nicely.
• Baking sheet – for baking the rolls; a rimmed one helps catch any drips.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Small bowl and whisk – to mix your icing smoothly before drizzling.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice in fall for a cozy seasonal twist.
• Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the filling for extra crunch and flavor.
• Mix cream cheese into the icing for a richer, tangy topping that balances the sweetness.
• Fold in mini chocolate chips with the cinnamon sugar for a fun, sweet surprise inside.

Heart-Shaped Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)

For the Filling:

• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Icing:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp milk (adjust to desired consistency)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 20 minutes of active prep, plus 1 to 1.5 hours for the first rise and another 30-45 minutes for the second rise. Baking takes around 20-25 minutes. So plan for about 2.5 to 3 hours total from start to delicious finish!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Make the Dough:

Start by mixing the yeast into warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it gets foamy. Then add the sugar, melted butter, salt, and eggs. Stir in the flour cup by cup until the dough starts to come together. Knead on a floured surface for 6-8 minutes until smooth and stretchy. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 1 to 1.5 hours.

2. Prepare the Filling and Shape the Rolls:

Mix your brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Punch down the dough and roll it into a big rectangle about 12×18 inches. Spread softened butter all over, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly on top. Roll both long sides tightly in toward the center, so you have two rolled logs side by side. Use a sharp knife to slice the roll lengthwise into two strips. Pinch the tops of each strip together and gently press down along each length to open the rolls into heart shapes. Cut into 1 to 1 1/2 inch thick slices.

3. Second Rise, Bake, and Ice:

Arrange your heart-shaped rolls on a baking tray lined with parchment or lightly greased, leaving space between each one. Cover and let them rise again until puffy, about 30-45 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden and smell amazing. While they bake, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to create your icing. When the rolls come out of the oven and have cooled for a few minutes, drizzle the icing on top and enjoy warm!

Can I Use Frozen Dough for This Recipe?

Absolutely! You can make the dough ahead, wrap it tightly, and freeze before the first rise. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

How Do I Store Leftover Cinnamon Rolls?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving.

Can I Substitute the Butter?

Yes! You can use margarine or a plant-based butter alternative if you need a dairy-free or vegan option. Just keep the measurement the same and make sure it’s softened for the filling and melted for the dough.

What’s the Best Way to Make the Heart Shapes?

Roll the dough into two logs starting from each long edge toward the center, slice them lengthwise, then pinch the top and gently press down the length to form hearts. Using a sharp knife and lightly floured hands will keep things neat and easy to handle.