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Dutch Oven Cinnamon Rolls

Dutch oven cinnamon rolls with soft, pillowy texture—baked golden using a covered pot on coals or a 350°F oven. These rolls are filled with cinnamon-sugar, then finished with a quick powdered sugar glaze.
Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
rise times 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 360

Ingredients
  

Dough
  • 3.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2.25 tsp) instant yeast
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup warm milk
  • 0.25 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
Filling
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 0.75 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp cinnamon
Glaze
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 3 tbsp milk

Equipment

  • 1 Dutch oven

Method
 

Make the dough
  1. In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, instant yeast, granulated sugar, and salt. Add warm milk, melted unsalted butter, and large egg, then mix until a soft dough forms (no need to knead yet).
  2. Knead the dough for 5–7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise in a bowl for 1 hour, until doubled.
Fill and cut the rolls
  1. Roll the dough into a large rectangle. Spread softened unsalted butter over the surface, then sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon evenly.
  2. Roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into 12 even rolls.
Second rise and bake
  1. Arrange the rolls in a greased Dutch oven, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes. They should look puffy and slightly expanded.
  2. Bake over coals or in a preheated 350°F oven for 25–30 minutes, until golden and cooked through. Look for browned tops and set centers.
Glaze and serve
  1. Whisk powdered sugar with milk until smooth and pourable. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls before serving.

Notes

Pro tip: keep the dough warm during rising for consistent lift—if your kitchen is cool, place the covered bowl near a barely warm oven or camping stove (not hot). Refrigerate leftover rolls airtight for up to 3 days and rewarm gently; freeze up to 2 months (glaze after reheating for best texture). Dietary swap: use plant-based butter and a dairy-free milk to make a dairy-free version without changing the method.