What’s more comforting and delicious than warm, sweet, and buttery, cinnamon rolls that have been baked to perfection? These are perfect for breakfast or even a midnight snack! Get Giada’s full recipe below!
Ingredients – Makes 12 Rolls
For the dough:
- 2 envelopes (4 1/2 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cup warm water
- 5 1/4 cups all purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon ground anise seed
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) melted unsalted butter
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, at room temperature
For The Filling:
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest, from 1 lemon
- 1 1/2 teaspoon orange zest, from 1 orange
- 1 teaspoon ground anise
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
For The Icing:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
Written Printable Directions: Here

Sources:
- Main Image & Recipe: Giadzy