Why Make This Recipe
Cinnamon rolls are a classic treat loved by many. They are soft, sweet, and often filled with delightful cinnamon and sugar. If you are looking for a way to sweeten your mornings or impress guests at brunch, this recipe is perfect for you. These Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls are not just any rolls; they are rich in flavor and have a wonderful texture. The icing adds a creamy sweetness that elevates these rolls to a whole new level.
Making cinnamon rolls at home can be a fun activity. You can enjoy the fragrant smell of cinnamon filling your kitchen as they bake. Plus, you can make them fresh whenever you want, without the need to visit a store. Making these rolls from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, so you can avoid preservatives and additives found in store-bought versions. Your family and friends will surely appreciate the effort you put into making these delightful treats.
How to Make Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls
Making Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls is easier than you might think. With the right ingredients and a little time, you can create warm, gooey cinnamon rolls that taste just like the ones you love. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have a batch of rolls that will make everyone smile.
Ingredients
To prepare these delicious cinnamon rolls, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
Creating these cinnamon rolls can be broken down into simple steps. Just follow along:
Mix the yeast mixture: Begin by pouring the warm milk into a large bowl. The milk should feel warm to the touch but not hot. Add the sugar and yeast to the milk. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. You will notice it getting bubbly, which shows the yeast is working.
Combine ingredients: Once your yeast mixture is bubbly, it’s time to add in the melted butter, salt, and eggs. Mix these ingredients well until they are fully combined.
Make the dough: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until it is smooth. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes.
Let the dough rise: Place your smooth dough into a greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour. You want the dough to double in size.
Prepare the dough for rolling: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Then, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle.
Spread butter and fill: Take the softened butter and spread it evenly over the rolled-out dough. In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture generously on top of the butter.
Roll and cut: Starting from one end of the rectangle, carefully roll the dough into a log shape. Once rolled tightly, slice the log into 12 equal pieces.
Second rise: Arrange the slices in a greased baking pan. Cover them again and let them rise for another 30 minutes. This will ensure they become fluffy as they bake.
Bake the rolls: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once preheated, bake the rolls for about 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them as ovens can vary.
Make the icing: While the rolls bake, prepare the cream cheese icing. In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Ice the rolls: As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, drizzle the icing over the warm rolls. This will help the icing melt slightly and soak into the rolls, making them extra special.
How to Serve Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls
Serving these Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls is simple. You can serve them warm right out of the oven, which is when they taste best. Place the rolls on a large plate or a platter. If you have guests, consider using individual plates. You can also garnish them with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
Pair these rolls with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or brunch treat. They can also be enjoyed as a dessert after dinner. However you choose to serve them, your family and friends will appreciate the effort and love that went into making these delicious cinnamon rolls.
How to Store Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls
Storing leftover cinnamon rolls is easy. Make sure the rolls are completely cooled before storing them. You can place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you want to keep them for a longer time, consider wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in an airtight container. Stored this way, they can last for up to three days at room temperature.
If you have too many rolls and want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a sealed freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy them later, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Tips to Make Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls
Check your yeast: Always make sure your yeast is active. You can check this by adding it to warm water with a bit of sugar. If it grows bubbly, it is good to use.
Use room temperature ingredients: For best results, let your eggs and cream cheese sit out to reach room temperature before using them. This helps them mix better into the dough and icing.
Don’t rush the rising: Allowing the dough to rise for the full time is crucial. This step helps to develop the texture and flavor.
Adjust sweetness: If you prefer your rolls a little less sweet, you can reduce the sugar in the filling or the icing to suit your taste.
Experiment with fillings: Feel free to add nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips to the filling for a different flavor twist.
Variation
If you want to change things up, consider adding different flavorings to your cinnamon rolls. For example, adding orange or lemon zest to the filling can give them a refreshing twist. You can also experiment with different types of icing, such as a maple glaze or a vanilla bean icing, to give them a unique flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make the dough the night before?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise. After the first rise, cover it and place it in the refrigerator. In the morning, take it out, let it come to room temperature, then continue with the rolling and baking instructions.
2. What if I don’t have all-purpose flour?
You can substitute with bread flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Just keep in mind that the texture may change slightly.
3. Can I make these rolls without cream cheese?
Yes, you can make a simple glaze using powdered sugar and milk if you prefer not to use cream cheese. Mix them until smooth, and drizzle over the warm rolls.
Enjoy making and serving these Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls! They are bound to be a hit with anyone who enjoys warm, sweet treats.
Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
Method
- Pour the warm milk into a large bowl. Add the sugar and yeast to the milk. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes.
- Add the melted butter, salt, and eggs to the yeast mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add all-purpose flour until a dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 5-10 minutes.
- Place dough in a greased bowl and cover. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
- Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle.
- Spread softened butter over the dough. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl, then sprinkle over the butter.
- Starting from one end, roll the dough into a log and slice into 12 equal pieces.
- Arrange the slices in a greased baking pan. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle the icing over the warm rolls immediately after baking.