The Ultimate Sticky Toffee Cinnamon Rolls Recipe: A Decadent Delight

There’s something uniquely comforting about a warm, freshly baked cinnamon roll. That soft, pillowy dough, the rich cinnamon-sugar swirl, and the promise of a gooey center—it’s a classic for a reason. But what if we told you we could take that comfort and elevate it to a whole new level? Enter the Sticky Toffee Cinnamon Rolls recipe. This isn’t just a simple twist on a classic; it’s a breathtaking combination of two dessert superstars: the classic American cinnamon roll and the beloved British sticky toffee pudding. The result? A truly unforgettable treat that will have you coming back for more.

This recipe transforms the familiar into something spectacular, swapping out a traditional cream cheese frosting for a decadent, homemade sticky toffee sauce. And instead of just cinnamon and sugar, we infuse the filling with chopped dates, adding a delightful chewiness and a deep, caramel-like sweetness that complements the rich sauce perfectly. This sticky toffee cinnamon rolls recipe isn’t just a dessert; it’s a moment of pure culinary bliss, perfect for a special weekend breakfast, a holiday brunch, or simply as an indulgent treat to share with loved ones. It’s a true labor of love, but every step is worth the incredible final product.

What Makes This Sticky Toffee Cinnamon Rolls Recipe So Special?

What sets this sticky toffee cinnamon rolls recipe apart from the rest is its unique marriage of flavors and textures. The base is a classic, soft yeasted dough that rises beautifully, creating a light and fluffy interior. This dough is the perfect canvas for the star of the show: a date-infused cinnamon filling. The dates, softened and mashed, melt into the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture, creating a caramelized filling that’s both sweet and complex.

But the real magic happens with the sticky toffee sauce. This isn’t your average drizzle. Made with heavy cream, brown sugar, and butter, it’s a rich, luxurious sauce that coats every inch of the rolls, seeping into the swirls and creating a gooey, irresistible bottom layer. The addition of a touch of golden syrup or corn syrup gives it that signature glossy finish, while a pinch of salt balances the sweetness. The optional bourbon or rum adds a deep, sophisticated note that takes the flavor profile to an entirely new dimension. This is the ultimate sticky toffee cinnamon rolls recipe, designed to create a dessert that is not just delicious, but truly extraordinary.

The Sweet Origin of Sticky Toffee Pudding

Before we dive into the details of this incredible sticky toffee cinnamon rolls recipe, it’s worth taking a moment to appreciate the dessert that inspired it all: sticky toffee pudding. This iconic British dessert, often shortened to “STP,” is a beloved classic. While its exact origin is debated, many credit Francis Coulson and Robert Lee, owners of the Sharrow Bay Country House Hotel in the Lake District, with popularizing the dish in the 1970s. The original recipe is said to have been given to them by a guest.

Sticky toffee pudding is essentially a moist sponge cake made with finely chopped dates, soaked in a decadent toffee sauce. It is traditionally served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of custard. The genius of this dessert lies in its simplicity and its rich, comforting flavor profile. Our sticky toffee cinnamon rolls take this same principle—the combination of soft, date-infused cake and a buttery, sweet toffee sauce—and apply it to the form of a gooey cinnamon roll. It’s a transatlantic culinary love story that results in a dessert that is rich, familiar, and yet entirely new.

Ingredients for a Batch of Pure Bliss

To create these irresistible sticky toffee cinnamon rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients. Quality ingredients are key to a successful bake, so try to use fresh yeast and good-quality butter for the best results.

For the Dough:

• 3½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of our soft, fluffy rolls.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar: Provides a hint of sweetness and helps to activate the yeast.
• 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast: The leavening agent that makes our rolls so light and airy.
• 1 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor of the dough.
• ¾ cup whole milk, warmed: Milk adds richness and helps the dough become tender. Make sure it’s warmed to the correct temperature to wake up the yeast.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds moisture and a buttery flavor.
• 1 large egg, room temperature: An egg adds richness, structure, and helps the rolls stay moist.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla complements the other flavors.

For the Cinnamon Date Filling:

• ¾ cup pitted dates, chopped: The star ingredient! Pitted dates add a natural sweetness and chewiness.
• ¼ cup hot water: Used to soften the dates, making them easier to mash and mix into the filling.
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Provides a rich base for the filling.
• ⅔ cup brown sugar, packed: Creates a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon: The classic spice that gives cinnamon rolls their signature warmth.
• ¼ tsp salt: Just a pinch to enhance the flavors.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds an extra layer of aroma and flavor.

Sticky Toffee Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream: The base of our rich and luxurious sauce.
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed: Creates a deep toffee flavor.
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and body to the sauce.
• 2 tbsp golden syrup or corn syrup: Prevents crystallization and gives the sauce a beautiful glossy shine.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
• ½ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness.
• 2 tbsp bourbon or rum (optional): A sophisticated addition that deepens the flavor.

For Assembly:

• 2 tbsp butter, melted: Used to brush on top of the rolls before baking for a golden crust.
• Flaky sea salt for sprinkling (optional): A final flourish to cut through the sweetness and make the flavors pop.

Step-by-Step Directions to Heavenly Rolls

Creating these sticky toffee cinnamon rolls is a process, but a rewarding one. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll be rewarded with a perfect batch of gooey, delicious rolls.

 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and a pinch of granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. It should become foamy and active. If it doesn’t, your yeast might be old, and you should start again.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together the flour, the remaining granulated sugar, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the foamy yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough comes together.
4. Knead: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for 8-10 minutes, or use a dough hook on your stand mixer on medium speed for the same amount of time. The dough should be smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky.
5. First Rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This is a crucial step for a light and fluffy texture.

 2: Prepare the Date Filling

1. Soften Dates: While the dough is rising, chop your pitted dates and place them in a small bowl. Pour the hot water over them and let them sit for about 10 minutes to soften.
2. Drain and Mash: Drain the softened dates, reserving the water if needed. Mash them lightly with a fork, leaving some small chunks for texture.
3. Mix Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, vanilla, and the mashed dates. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined and form a thick paste.

 3: Make the Sticky Toffee Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the heavy cream, brown sugar, butter, golden syrup (or corn syrup), and salt.
2. Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning. Once it boils, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
3. Add Flavoring: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and the optional bourbon or rum.
4. Cool: Set the sauce aside to cool slightly. It will thicken as it cools, creating that perfect sticky consistency for our sticky toffee cinnamon rolls.

 4: Assemble the Rolls

1. Prep Pan: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour half of the prepared sticky toffee sauce into the bottom of the pan and spread it evenly.
2. Roll Dough: Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about 18×12 inches.
3. Add Filling: Spread the date filling evenly over the dough, making sure to leave a ½-inch border along the far long edge. This will help prevent the filling from oozing out.
4. Roll Up: Starting from the long edge closest to you, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it securely.
5. Cut Rolls: Using a sharp knife or a piece of unflavored dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
6. Arrange: Place the rolls, cut-side up, in the prepared baking dish over the sticky toffee sauce.

 5: Second Rise and Bake

1. Second Rise: Cover the pan with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the rolls rise for another 45 minutes to an hour, or until they look puffy and have nearly doubled in size.
2. Preheat Oven: While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Brush and Bake: Brush the tops of the rolls with the melted butter. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a thermometer inserted into the center of a roll reads 190°F (88°C).
4. Cool Briefly: Let the rolls cool in the pan for about 5 minutes.

 6: Finish and Serve

1. Reheat Sauce: While the rolls are cooling, gently reheat the remaining sticky toffee sauce if it has thickened too much.
2. Invert or Drizzle: For the most dramatic presentation, place a large serving platter over the baking dish and carefully but confidently invert the rolls onto the platter. The gooey sauce will now be on top! Alternatively, you can simply drizzle the remaining sauce over the rolls while they are still in the pan.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if you like.
4. Serve Warm: These sticky toffee cinnamon rolls are absolutely best served warm, while they are at their gooey, buttery peak.

Variations to Make These Rolls Your Own

This sticky toffee cinnamon rolls recipe is fantastic as is, but it also serves as an excellent base for experimentation. Here are a few variations you can try:

• Pecan Sticky Rolls: Add ½ to 1 cup of chopped toasted pecans to the date filling and a handful to the sticky toffee sauce before pouring it into the pan. The crunch of the pecans will be a great contrast to the soft rolls.
• Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls: Replace the dates with finely diced and sautéed apples (a firm variety like Granny Smith works well). Add ½ teaspoon of apple pie spice to the filling for a warm, autumnal twist.
• Maple Version: For a different kind of sweet, replace the golden syrup with pure maple syrup. The resulting sauce will have a rich, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.
• Chocolate Chip Surprise: For the ultimate indulgent treat, mix ½ cup of mini chocolate chips into the date filling. They will melt during baking, creating little pockets of chocolatey goodness.
• Gingerbread Rolls: For a holiday-inspired version, add a teaspoon of ground ginger and a pinch of cloves to the filling. You can even add a bit of molasses to the dough for a darker, more complex flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sticky Toffee Cinnamon Rolls

• Can I make the dough in advance? Yes! You can prepare the dough through the first rise and then place it in the refrigerator overnight. This cold fermentation actually improves the flavor. The next morning, let the dough come to room temperature for about an hour before proceeding with the rolling and filling steps.
• What if I don’t have a stand mixer? No problem! Kneading the dough by hand is a great workout. Just be sure to knead it for the full 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. It’s a satisfying process that helps you connect with your baking.
• What’s the best way to store these rolls? These rolls are best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• How do I reheat them? To bring them back to life, place the rolls in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are warmed through. You can also microwave a single roll for 20-30 seconds, but be careful not to overcook it, as it can become tough.
• Why are my rolls dry? This can happen if you over-flour the dough or over-bake them. Make sure to only use enough flour to prevent sticking when kneading and rolling. Also, check the rolls for doneness at the lower end of the baking time. An internal temperature of 190°F is a perfect indicator.
• Can I freeze the unbaked rolls? Absolutely! This is a great make-ahead option. Assemble the rolls in the pan, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready to bake, take them out, let them thaw and rise for a few hours, then bake as directed, possibly adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion: Sticky Toffee Cinnamon Rolls

This sticky toffee cinnamon rolls recipe is more than just a sweet indulgence; it’s a testament to the power of combining culinary traditions to create something truly magical. By taking the classic, comforting cinnamon roll and infusing it with the rich, complex flavors of sticky toffee pudding, we’ve created a dessert that is both familiar and exciting. The soft, fluffy dough, the sweet, chewy date filling, and the luxurious, gooey toffee sauce come together in a symphony of flavors and textures that is guaranteed to impress.

Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, these sticky toffee cinnamon rolls are a rewarding baking project that culminates in pure bliss. They are the perfect example of how a little extra effort can lead to an extraordinary result. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and get ready to bake something truly special. The result will be worth every moment of effort, and you’ll create a delicious memory that will last long after the last roll is gone.

The Ultimate Sticky Toffee Cinnamon Rolls Recipe: A Decadent Delight

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• Author: David Andersson
• Total Time: 50 minutes (plus rising)
• Yield: 8 rolls 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

What sets this sticky toffee cinnamon rolls recipe apart from the rest is its unique marriage of flavors and textures. The base is a classic, soft yeasted dough that rises beautifully, creating a light and fluffy interior. This dough is the perfect canvas for the star of the show: a date-infused cinnamon filling. The dates, softened and mashed, melt into the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture, creating a caramelized filling that’s both sweet and complex.

 

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Dough:

• 3½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• ¾ cup whole milk, warmed
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Date Filling:

• ¾ cup pitted dates, chopped
• ¼ cup hot water
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• ⅔ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Sticky Toffee Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp golden syrup or corn syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 tbsp bourbon or rum** (optional)

For Assembly:

• 2 tbsp butter, melted (for brushing)
• Flaky sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

1. Activate yeast: In small bowl, combine warm milk and a pinch of sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In large bowl or stand mixer, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Combine wet ingredients: Add yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and vanilla to flour mixture.
4. Knead: Mix until dough comes together, then knead by hand or with dough hook for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. First rise: Place in greased bowl, cover, and let rise in warm place for 1-1.5 hours until doubled.

Prepare the Date Filling:

1. Soften dates: Pour hot water over chopped dates and let sit 10 minutes to soften.
2. Drain and mash: Drain dates and mash lightly with fork (leave some chunks).
3. Mix filling: In medium bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, vanilla, and mashed dates until well combined.

Make the Sticky Toffee Sauce:

1. Combine ingredients: In medium saucepan, whisk together cream, brown sugar, butter, golden syrup, and salt.
2. Cook: Bring to boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer 3-4 minutes until thickened.
3. Add flavoring: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and bourbon if using.
4. Cool: Set aside to cool slightly (sauce will thicken as it cools).

Assemble the Rolls:

1. Prep pan: Grease 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour half the toffee sauce into bottom of pan and spread evenly.
2. Roll dough: On floured surface, roll risen dough into 18×12 inch rectangle.
3. Add filling: Spread date filling evenly over dough, leaving ½-inch border on far long edge.
4. Roll up: Starting from long edge closest to you, tightly roll up dough. Pinch seam to seal.
5. Cut rolls: Using sharp knife or dental floss, cut into 12 equal pieces.
6. Arrange: Place rolls cut-side up in prepared pan over toffee sauce.

Second Rise and Bake:

1. Second rise: Cover with damp towel and let rise 45 minutes until puffy.
2. Preheat: Heat oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Brush with butter: Brush tops of rolls with melted butter.
4. Bake: Bake 25-30 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 190°F.
5. Cool briefly: Let cool in pan 5 minutes.

Finish and Serve:

1. Warm remaining sauce: Gently reheat remaining toffee sauce if needed.
2. Invert or drizzle: Either immediately invert pan onto serving platter, or drizzle remaining sauce over rolls in pan.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
4. Serve warm: Best served warm while gooey!

Pro Tips for Perfect Rolls

Dough Success:

• Temperature matters: Milk should feel barely warm to touch (105-110°F)
• Proper kneading: Dough should be smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky
• Rising environment: Place in warm, draft-free spot (inside oven with light on works great)

Filling Tips:

• Date prep: If dates are very dry, soak longer or add 1 tbsp more hot water
• Even spreading: Leave border on edges to prevent filling from leaking out
• Tight rolling: Roll firmly but don’t stretch dough

Sauce Notes:

• Don’t skip simmering: This concentrates flavors and thickens sauce
• Make extra: Sauce keeps well refrigerated for up to 1 week
• Consistency: Should coat back of spoon when ready

Make-Ahead Options

Overnight Method:

1. Prepare through assembly: Complete through placing rolls in pan
2. Refrigerate: Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight
3. Morning bake: Remove from fridge 1 hour before baking, then proceed with recipe

Freezer Option:

• Freeze unbaked: Assemble rolls, freeze in pan up to 1 month
• Bake from frozen: Add 10-15 minutes to baking time

Notes

These sticky, gooey rolls are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. For an extra touch, drizzle with extra caramel sauce, sprinkle with chopped pecans, or serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus dough rising time)
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert, Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American/British Fusion

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 roll
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: High

Keywords: Gooey toffee cinnamon buns, Toffee caramel cinnamon rolls