Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

If you’re a fan of cinnamon rolls and also adore the creamy, decadent flavors of tres leches cake, then this Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls recipe is going to change your baking game forever. Imagine the soft, pillowy texture of a cinnamon roll meeting the sweet, milky richness of a tres leches soak—finished with a smooth frosting drizzle. This is more than just dessert; it’s a show-stopping centerpiece for brunch, holidays, or simply treating yourself on a Sunday morning.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk through every step of making these rolls from scratch—covering the dough, the cinnamon filling, the luxurious tres leches soak, and the perfect frosting. Along the way, we’ll share expert baking tips, ingredient substitutions, storage instructions, and even creative serving ideas to help you nail this recipe every single time.

Why You’ll Love Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls

  • Fusion of Two Classics: Combines the comfort of cinnamon rolls with the indulgence of tres leches cake.
  • Moist and Flavorful: The tres leches soak infuses the rolls with rich, milky sweetness.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Works beautifully for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or special celebrations.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare them in advance and soak right before serving.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet (2¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup whole milk (warm)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Filling:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Tres Leches Soak:

  • ½ cup whole milk
  • ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup evaporated milk

For the Frosting:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt.
  2. Slowly add warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
  3. Mix until the dough begins to come together.

Step 2: Knead and First Rise

  1. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.
  2. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise until doubled in size (about 1 hour).

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

  1. In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until fully combined.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

  1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air.
  2. Roll it into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
  3. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
  4. Tightly roll from one long edge to form a log and pinch the seam to seal.

Step 5: Slice and Second Rise

  1. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.
  2. Arrange the slices in a greased baking dish.
  3. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 6: Bake the Rolls

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 7: Prepare the Tres Leches Soak

  1. While the rolls bake, combine whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk in a bowl.

Step 8: Soak the Rolls

  1. Remove rolls from the oven and immediately pour the tres leches mixture evenly over them.
  2. Allow them to soak for 15-20 minutes.

Step 9: Frost and Serve

  1. Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  2. Drizzle over the soaked rolls before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls

  • Use warm, not hot milk: Hot milk can kill yeast; keep it between 100-110°F.
  • Knead until elastic: This ensures a light, fluffy texture.
  • Cut rolls with floss: This prevents squashing the dough when slicing.
  • Don’t rush the soak: Give the rolls time to absorb the tres leches mixture.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Dairy-free: Use almond milk, coconut milk, and dairy-free condensed milk.
  • Gluten-free: Substitute a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
  • Flavor twist: Add cardamom to the filling for a spiced variation.

Serving Suggestions

  • Top with fresh strawberries or raspberries for a fruity contrast.
  • Sprinkle with toasted coconut for tropical flair.
  • Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds before serving.
  • Freeze unsoaked rolls for up to 2 months; thaw and soak before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 4g | Fat: 12g

Final Thoughts

These Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls are more than just a treat—they’re an indulgent celebration of flavor and texture. Soft, fluffy, sweet, and creamy, they’re perfect for wowing guests or enjoying on a cozy weekend morning. Once you try them, they just might replace your standard cinnamon roll recipe forever.

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