Name: S’mores Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ tablespoon instant yeast; ½ cup warm milk; 3 tablespoons sugar; ¼ cup butter (well softened, but not melted); ½ teaspoon salt; 1 egg; 2 cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon cinnamon; 4 tablespoons butter (softened); ¼ cup finely crushed graham cracker crumbs; ¼ cup mini milk chocolate chips; ⅓ cup mini marshmallows; ¼ cup butter (softened); 1 ounce cream cheese; ½ teaspoon vanilla; ¾ cup powdered sugar; 2-4 tablespoons milk

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 9 reviews

I absolutely love cozying up with a batch of these decadent S’mores Cinnamon Rolls Recipe. They bring together the nostalgic flavors of campfire s’mores inside fluffy, sweet cinnamon rolls that practically melt in your mouth. From the gooey marshmallows to the rich chocolate chips and crunchy graham cracker crumbs, every bite feels like a warm, edible hug. I think you’ll find this recipe easy enough to make on a lazy weekend morning or whenever you need a special treat that’s a little bit nostalgic and a whole lot delicious.

Why You’ll Love This S’mores Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

What makes this S’mores Cinnamon Rolls Recipe so special to me is the way it combines familiar childhood flavors with the comforting texture of a classic cinnamon roll. The sweetness of the brown sugar and cinnamon filling perfectly balances with the melty chocolate and toasted marshmallows, while the graham cracker crumbs add a subtle crunch that keeps every bite interesting. It’s like having a campfire treat without leaving the kitchen, and that cozy warmth is something I crave on chilly mornings or special occasions.

Another reason I adore this recipe is how approachable it is. Despite seeming decadent, it really comes together with pantry staples and straightforward steps. I find the dough surprisingly forgiving, even if you’re not an experienced baker. Plus, these rolls are ideal for sharing—whether brunch with friends, holiday breakfasts, or a fun weekend project with the kids. Every time I make them, they stand out as a memorable indulgence that you won’t find in your average cinnamon roll recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Seven spiral rolls are arranged closely together in a round gray baking pan on a white marbled surface. Each roll has three visible layers: the base dough in a pale yellow color, a middle layer of crumbly light brown sugar mixed with small dark chocolate chips, and a top layer dotted with small white mini marshmallows and more crumbs. The rolls look soft and fluffy, with a rough crumbly texture on top and smooth dough spirals underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are both simple and essential, each one adding a key flavor or texture that elevates the final s’mores cinnamon rolls into something truly irresistible.

½ tablespoon instant yeast: This helps give the dough a light, fluffy texture with just a little rise time.
½ cup warm milk: Perfect temperature to activate the yeast without killing it.

3 tablespoons sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the dough.
¼ cup butter (well softened): Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors.
1 egg: Provides structure and tenderness.
2 cups all purpose flour: The base of the dough, creating that soft but sturdy roll.

½ cup brown sugar: Brings caramel notes to the cinnamon filling.
1 tablespoon cinnamon: The classic warm spice in every cinnamon roll.
4 tablespoons butter (softened): For spreading on the dough before adding fillings.

¼ cup finely crushed graham cracker crumbs: Adds that iconic crunchy s’mores texture.
¼ cup mini milk chocolate chips: Melts into pockets of gooey chocolate perfection.
⅓ cup mini marshmallows: Toast up delightfully in the oven, adding melty sweetness.

¼ cup butter (softened): For the luscious cream cheese frosting.
1 ounce cream cheese: Adds tang and creaminess to the frosting.
½ teaspoon vanilla: Brightens the frosting’s flavor with a warm floral note.

¾ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting beautifully.
2–4 tablespoons milk: Adjusts frosting consistency for easy spreading.

Directions

Step 1: Start by proofing the yeast in warm milk for 10 to 15 minutes until it bubbles and becomes foamy. This little bubbling moment means your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic. Then whisk in the sugar, softened butter, salt, and egg until everything combines smoothly.

Step 2: Stir in the flour gradually until the dough starts to come together. When it’s stiff enough, dump it out onto a floured surface and knead for a few minutes until it’s smooth, elastic, and springs back when you poke it. Put it in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise until it doubles in size—about an hour.

Step 3: Punch down the dough to release the air, then knead briefly until smooth again. Mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon while the dough rests a moment.

Step 4: Roll the dough out into a 10-by-18-inch rectangle—the thinner the better, but it should still hold together easily. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture all over, then scatter the crushed graham cracker crumbs, mini chocolate chips, and mini marshmallows evenly on top. Roll it up tightly from the short edge to form a sturdy log.

Step 5: Using a strong thread or a sharp knife, cut the log into 8 or 9 equal rolls. Arrange them snugly in a greased 10-inch baking pan. Bake in a 375°F oven for 15 to 16 minutes until they are just lightly browned and the filling is bubbly and melty.

Step 6: While the rolls cool briefly, whip up the frosting by creaming together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add vanilla, powdered sugar, and enough milk to make a spreadable frosting. Spread it generously over the warm rolls so it melts into every nook and cranny.

Servings and Timing

This S’mores Cinnamon Rolls Recipe makes about 8 generous rolls, perfect for sharing with family or friends. You’re looking at around 15 minutes of active prep time to mix and knead the dough, plus about an hour for the dough to rise. The baking time is about 15 to 16 minutes. Including frosting prep and final cooling, expect roughly 2 hours and 50 minutes total from start to finish. Though it takes some patience for the dough to rise, the steps themselves are pleasantly hands-on and not rushed.

How to Serve This S’mores Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

A round gray baking pan holds eight golden brown cinnamon rolls, each with visible swirls filled with dark brown cinnamon sugar and small chocolate chips. The rolls have a smooth, creamy white icing drizzled thickly over the top in uneven lines. The pan is placed on a white cloth with red patterns, set against a dark surface. Next to the pan, there is a clear container filled with tiny white marshmallows and a clear bowl full of small chocolate chips, with some marshmallows and chips scattered around. The surface is changed to a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When I serve these S’mores Cinnamon Rolls, I love presenting them warm straight from the oven so the marshmallows and chocolate chips are still wonderfully gooey. I usually place 1 or 2 rolls on a small dessert plate, spoon a little extra frosting on top, and maybe sprinkle with a pinch of additional graham cracker crumbs for that extra crunch. They look irresistible that way, perfect for a special breakfast or a sweet afternoon treat.

These rolls pair beautifully with a robust cup of coffee or a creamy hot chocolate to really play up the cozy dessert vibe. On warmer days, I enjoy them alongside a chilled glass of milk or even a cold brew coffee for a refreshing contrast. If I’m serving to a crowd, I sometimes set up a little “frosting bar” with extra cream cheese frosting, mini marshmallows, and chocolate chips so guests can customize their rolls to their heart’s content.

This recipe is my go-to for holiday breakfasts, weekend brunches, or even a playful party dessert. They feel extra special when served warm, but they also hold up well at room temperature if you’re taking them on a picnic or to a potluck. Just be sure to portion them generously; because once you’ve tasted one, it’s hard not to want another!

Variations

I love tweaking this S’mores Cinnamon Rolls Recipe to suit different preferences or dietary needs. If you prefer a dairy-free version, I’ve had great success swapping out regular milk for oat or almond milk, and using vegan butter and cream cheese alternatives. The texture stays wonderfully soft and the flavors still shine through. Just be sure to use plant-based mini marshmallows, as traditional ones contain gelatin.

If you want to switch up the flavor, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a salty-sweet sensation, or swap out the milk chocolate chips for dark chocolate or white chocolate to change the sweetness level. For a fun twist, adding chopped nuts like toasted pecans or walnuts inside the rolls adds crunch and richness. You could also experiment with cooking methods: baking these in a cast-iron skillet instead of a pan can give you slightly crispier edges that I find so satisfying.

For a gluten-free version, I recommend using a high-quality gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast breads—make sure to add a bit of xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t have it. The dough may be slightly more delicate to handle, but with some gentle kneading and patience, the results are deliciously tender.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, I store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap to keep them moist. They will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days, or you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just be sure the container is well sealed to prevent the rolls from drying out.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully, which is great for making ahead. I like to wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. You can also freeze the rolls before baking: prepare them, slice, and place in a baking dish covered tightly, then freeze. When ready, thaw and bake as directed.

Reheating

To reheat, I recommend warming the cinnamon rolls gently in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. This helps keep the exterior slightly crisp while melting the filling. You can also microwave individual rolls for 20 to 30 seconds but be careful not to overdo it or they’ll become gummy. After reheating, refresh the frosting by adding a dollop of cream cheese frosting or a drizzle of honey for extra moisture and shine.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes! If using active dry yeast, you’ll want to proof it in warm milk with a pinch of sugar for about 5 to 10 minutes until foamy before mixing it into your dough. Instant yeast can be added directly to the dry ingredients, but active yeast needs that extra step to wake it up.

What if I don’t have mini marshmallows—can I use regular-sized ones?

You can use regular-sized marshmallows, but I recommend chopping them into smaller pieces so they distribute more evenly within the rolls. Mini marshmallows toast and melt better, giving that gooey texture throughout.

Is it possible to prepare the dough the night before?

Definitely! After kneading the dough, you can cover it tightly and refrigerate it overnight. Just take it out in the morning to come to room temperature and complete the rolling and filling steps. The slow rise actually improves flavor.

How do I prevent the marshmallows from burning?

Because marshmallows brown quickly, baking at a moderate temperature (375°F) and not overbaking helps keep them melty without burning. Also, placing the rolls snugly together in the pan provides a little insulation that protects the marshmallows.

Can I skip the cream cheese frosting?

You can, though I don’t recommend it! The cream cheese frosting adds a lovely tang and creaminess that balances the sweetness of the rolls exquisitely. If you want something lighter, a simple dusting of powdered sugar works too.

Conclusion

Making this S’mores Cinnamon Rolls Recipe has been one of my favorite ways to bring joy and warmth into my kitchen. The combination of comforting cinnamon dough with all the nostalgia of s’mores is guaranteed to delight anyone lucky enough to enjoy them. I truly encourage you to give these a try—you’ll have a treat that feels both adventurous and familiar, perfect for sharing and savoring on any cozy day. I promise, once you bake these, they’ll become a treasured recipe in your own collection.