There’s something undeniably comforting about the sweet aroma of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen as these Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls bake to golden perfection. The moment you roll out that soft dough and spread it with butter, brown sugar, and fragrant cinnamon, you can’t help but feel the excitement of what’s to come. This recipe has a delightful knack for transforming any day into a special occasion, whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a gathering with friends.
I discovered this recipe after a particularly long week when I craved something indulgent yet simple to whip up. The result? A batch of fluffy, gooey rolls frosted with luscious cream cheese icing, perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself! Join me as we dive into the magic of homemade Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls that will bring smiles and warm hearts around your table. It’s time to leave fast food behind and savor the joy of homemade goodness.
Why love Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls?
Heavenly aroma fills the air: As these rolls bake, your kitchen transforms into a cozy café.
Irresistibly gooey texture: Each bite combines softness and chewiness, creating pure bliss.
Easy to make: With simple ingredients, anyone can master this recipe.
Perfect for sharing: Ideal for gatherings, you’ll impress friends and family alike!
Incredible frosting: Drizzle or spread the silky cream cheese icing for an extra touch of indulgence.
Elevate your breakfast or treat yourself with these delightful homemade rolls that truly stand out from fast food options!
Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Ingredients
• Let’s gather the essentials for your Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls!
For the Dough
- Active dry yeast – essential for helping your dough rise and become fluffy.
- Milk (lukewarm) – activates the yeast and adds moisture for softness.
- Granulated sugar – sweetens the dough and helps it brown beautifully.
- Butter (unsalted, softened) – enriches the dough, adding a wonderful flavor.
- Salt – balances the sweetness and enhances overall taste.
- Eggs – contribute to the richness and help bind the ingredients.
- All-purpose flour – forms the structure of your rolls, resulting in the perfect texture.
For the Filling
- Brown sugar (packed) – adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the filling.
- Cinnamon (ground) – essential for that signature flavor in Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls.
- Butter (unsalted, softened) – spreads evenly and ensures each bite is moist and flavorful.
For the Cream Cheese Icing
- Butter (unsalted, softened) – helps create a smooth, creamy texture for the icing.
- Powdered sugar – provides the sweetness without any grittiness.
- Cream cheese (at room temperature) – adds a rich, tangy flavor that complements the sweetness.
- Vanilla extract – enhances the flavor profile, bringing everything together.
- Salt – a subtle touch for balancing the sweetness of the icing.
Gather these wonderful ingredients and get ready to create delectable Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls that are sure to become a cherished addition to your recipe collection!
How to Make Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls
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Combine lukewarm milk and active dry yeast in a bowl; let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. This step activates the yeast for the perfect rise.
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Mix the foamy yeast mixture with granulated sugar, softened butter, salt, and eggs in a large mixing bowl. Stir until well combined and smooth.
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Add all-purpose flour gradually, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic—this ensures a fluffy texture.
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Rise the dough by placing it in a warm spot, covered, for 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size. This step is crucial for that airy roll you crave!
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Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a separate bowl. This filling is what brings that delicious, warm flavor to your rolls.
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Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Perfectly shaped dough makes the rolling and filling much easier.
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Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, followed by sprinkling the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture. Make certain every part is covered for maximum flavor!
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Roll the dough tightly into a log, and using a sharp knife, slice it into rolls. Aim for even slices that are about 1-2 inches wide to ensure even baking.
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Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, allowing them to rise for another 30-45 minutes. This second rise is essential for that light texture.
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffy. Your kitchen will smell incredible!
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Beat together softened butter, powdered sugar, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and salt in a bowl to make the cream cheese icing, until smooth and creamy.
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Drizzle or spread the icing over the warm rolls before serving. This adds that sweet, tangy layer that makes Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls truly special.
Optional: Top with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon for a little added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls?
There’s nothing like a warm, gooey cinnamon roll to awaken the senses, but pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate your mealtime experience.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a bright, zesty contrast to the sweetness of the rolls. The natural juices will cleanse your palate.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy, creamy scrambled eggs provide a savory counterpart to the sweetness, making your breakfast both satisfying and balanced.
- Crispy Bacon: The salty, smoky flavors of crispy bacon complement the sweet, rich rolls perfectly. Go ahead and indulge in this delightful duo!
- Coffee or Latte: A warm cup of coffee or latte enhances the cinnamon flavors, creating a comforting atmosphere that beckons you to linger at the table.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and berries offers a deliciously creamy texture and freshness that offsets the richness of the rolls.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup over your rolls adds an extra layer of sweetness while enhancing that warm, cozy feeling.
- Chai Tea: The warm spices of chai tea create a delightful harmony with your cinnamon rolls, making each bite a cozy, comforting experience.
- Cream Cheese Icing on the Side: If you love that luscious frosting, serve a small bowl on the side for dipping to take your rolls to the next level!
With these delightful pairings, you can create a beautifully curated meal that showcases the magic of homemade Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls!
Expert Tips for Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls
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Perfect Yeast Activation: Ensure your milk is lukewarm, around 110°F (43°C), for optimal yeast activation. Too hot can kill the yeast!
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Kneading Technique: Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, roughly 8-10 minutes. Proper kneading helps in achieving that wonderful soft texture we love in Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls.
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First Rise: Allow the dough to rise in a warm area. A cozy, draft-free spot makes all the difference in achieving that fluffy rise you desire.
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Consistent Slices: When cutting the rolls, use a sharp knife and ensure even slicing (1-2 inches thick) to guarantee even baking.
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Don’t Rush the Icing: Spread the cream cheese icing only after the rolls have cooled slightly, allowing it to melt just enough without becoming runny.
Enjoy every gooey bite of these delightful rolls, and remember, patience is key for a perfect outcome!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls
Room Temperature: Keep uniced rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days for optimal freshness. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!
Fridge: Store your Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Seal them tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked rolls by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake fresh when you’re ready!
Reheating: To reheat, warm iced rolls in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until heated through.
Variations & Substitutions for Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls
Feel free to get creative with these warm, gooey delights, making them your own with delightful twists and substitutions!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free butter for a delicious option that’s kind to your tummy.
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Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a robust gluten-free flour blend to keep everyone included in the cinnamon roll fun!
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Nutty Addition: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for an extra crunch and a lovely nutty flavor that complements the sweetness.
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Spiced Twist: Mix in nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon filling for an aromatic kick that elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
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Chocolate Lovers: Add ½ cup of mini chocolate chips to the filling for a decadent treat that takes your rolls to the next level of indulgence.
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over the cream cheese icing for an extra layer of sweetness that brings a whole new dimension to your rolls!
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Orange Zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange zest into the cream cheese icing for a bright citrus note that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
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Heat It Up: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the cinnamon mixture for a surprisingly delightful spicy kick that balances the sweetness.
Let your creativity shine as you customize your Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls to make them uniquely yours!
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for busy home cooks who want to savor homemade goodness without last-minute stress! You can prepare the dough and roll it into shapes up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe through the cutting step, then cover the rolls tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before the final rise. This not only helps to maintain their fluffy texture but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. After rising, bake as directed for sweet, gooey rolls that taste just as fresh and delicious!
Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! For the best rolls, select fresh ingredients. Choose active dry yeast that is within its expiration date and ensure the milk is lukewarm (around 110°F or 43°C) for optimal yeast activation. The butter should be softened but not melted, as this will mix better into your dough. For the cinnamon, using fresh, high-quality ground cinnamon will enhance the flavor of your rolls tremendously.
How should I store leftover Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls?
Very! Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days to maintain freshness. If you want to extend their life, place them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making sure they are sealed tightly to prevent them from drying out. Warm them gently before enjoying for a taste almost as good as fresh-baked!
Can I freeze unbaked Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls?
Yes! I often make a double batch and freeze them for later. To freeze, wrap the unbaked rolls securely in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then let them rise for about 30-45 minutes before baking.
What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
No worries! If your dough doesn’t rise, it may be due to either the yeast not being activated or the rising environment not being warm enough. Ensure the yeast is fresh and activated properly in the lukewarm milk before mixing it with other ingredients. For a cozy rise, place it in a warm, draft-free area. If you find the dough was too dense, you can knead it again and allow it to rise for a while longer.
Are Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls safe for people with allergies?
It’s important to consider allergies! This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs, dairy, and gluten. If you have a sensitivity to any of these ingredients, substitutions may be necessary. For a dairy-free version, you can use plant-based milk and vegan butter. For gluten-free, try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, but be sure to follow the recommended liquid adjustments for best results.
How long does it take to make Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls from start to finish?
This delightful treat typically takes about 3 to 4 hours from start to finish, including prep and rising time. The actual baking time is just 25-30 minutes. If you’re short on time, you can prep the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight! This way, you wake up to warm, freshly baked rolls without the hassle.
Heavenly Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls That Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine lukewarm milk and active dry yeast in a bowl; let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
- Mix foamy yeast mixture with granulated sugar, softened butter, salt, and eggs in a large mixing bowl. Stir until well combined and smooth.
- Add all-purpose flour gradually, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it's smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a warm spot, covered, for 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a separate bowl.
- Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
- Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, followed by sprinkling the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log, and slice it into rolls about 1-2 inches wide.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, allowing them to rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Beat together softened butter, powdered sugar, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and salt in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Drizzle or spread the icing over the warm rolls before serving.