Old-Fashioned Caramel Rolls

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the timeless delight of homemade Old-Fashioned Caramel Rolls. Soft, pillowy dough is slathered in rich buttery caramel, creating a melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert. This recipe brings nostalgia to your kitchen, making it a cherished favorite for family gatherings and special occasions.

Marina Lowe

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2025-12-14T02:23:26.571Z

The Perfect Breakfast Treat

There's something undeniably special about starting your day with a warm, homemade treat. Old-Fashioned Caramel Rolls provide the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth, making them a beloved breakfast choice. Their pillowy texture and rich caramel topping are sure to please both family and friends. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as an indulgent treat to kickstart your morning, these rolls are designed to satisfy your cravings.

Not only are these rolls delicious, but they also offer a wonderful way to bring loved ones together. The aroma wafting through your kitchen while these rolls bake will create an inviting atmosphere, perfect for shared breakfast moments. Each bite is a reminder of simpler times, making it a cherished recipe to pass down through generations.

Versatile and Adaptable

One of the best aspects of Old-Fashioned Caramel Rolls is their versatility. While the recipe focuses on a classic caramel topping and cinnamon sugar filling, feel free to adapt it to your liking. Consider adding nuts for a crunchy texture or incorporating dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a hint of natural sweetness. The dough can also be experimented with, allowing you to create various flavors that suit your family's tastes.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding different spices to the filling or drizzling a flavored icing over the finished rolls. This adaptability means you can enjoy these caramel rolls throughout the year, celebrating various holidays or special occasions by customizing them to fit the theme or flavors of the season.

Make-Ahead Convenience

Another fantastic benefit of this recipe is the make-ahead option. You can prepare the dough in advance, allowing you to enjoy freshly baked caramel rolls with minimal effort. Simply follow the recipe until the dough has risen for the first time, then refrigerate it overnight. The next morning, you can roll, fill, and bake your rolls with ease, ensuring a warm breakfast that feels freshly made.

This make-ahead approach is particularly useful for busy mornings or special celebrations like holidays or family gatherings. You’ll be able to serve a homemade breakfast that looks impressive but requires only a little morning prep, giving you more time to enjoy your guests.

Ingredients

Dough

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

Caramel Topping

  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup corn syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cinnamon Sugar Filling

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

Mix and match ingredients to fit your taste!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add warmed milk and melted butter, then mix in eggs until a soft dough forms.

Knead and Rise

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size.

Prepare the Caramel

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and corn syrup until melted and combined. Remove from heat and add vanilla.

Roll and Fill

Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread with softened butter, and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. Roll tightly and cut into rolls.

Assemble and Bake

Pour the caramel into a baking dish and place rolls on top. Let rise again for 30 minutes, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Allow to cool slightly before serving!

Storage Tips

To keep your Old-Fashioned Caramel Rolls fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed within 2-3 days, as the softness of the dough tends to diminish over time. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Simply wrap the prepared rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and warm them in the oven for a delightful taste sensation.

In case you find yourself with extra caramel topping, it can be stored in the refrigerator for several days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before drizzling it over your rolls, bringing back that luscious, gooey goodness.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Old-Fashioned Caramel Rolls, consider pairing them with sides that complement their sweetness. A side of fresh fruit, like berries or sliced apples, can provide a refreshing contrast, making your breakfast both balanced and satisfying. Additionally, a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the experience, creating an indulgent treat that feels worthy of special occasions.

For a fun presentation, serve the rolls on a tiered stand or in a decorative baking dish. This can turn a simple breakfast into a delightful brunch or a festive event, inspiring everyone to gather around and enjoy these delicious baked goods.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight.

→ How do I store leftover rolls?

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

Old-Fashioned Caramel Rolls

Experience the timeless delight of homemade Old-Fashioned Caramel Rolls. Soft, pillowy dough is slathered in rich buttery caramel, creating a melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert. This recipe brings nostalgia to your kitchen, making it a cherished favorite for family gatherings and special occasions.

Prep Time30.0
Cooking Duration30.0
Overall Time60.0

Created by: Marina Lowe

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 12.0

What You'll Need

Dough

  1. 4 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  3. 1 packet active dry yeast
  4. 1 teaspoon salt
  5. 1 cup milk, warmed
  6. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  7. 2 large eggs

Caramel Topping

  1. 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  2. 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  3. 1/4 cup corn syrup
  4. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cinnamon Sugar Filling

  1. 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  2. 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  3. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add warmed milk and melted butter, then mix in eggs until a soft dough forms.

Step 02

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size.

Step 03

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and corn syrup until melted and combined. Remove from heat and add vanilla.

Step 04

Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread with softened butter, and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. Roll tightly and cut into rolls.

Step 05

Pour the caramel into a baking dish and place rolls on top. Let rise again for 30 minutes, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 300
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 40g