Name: Easy Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup whole milk (warm, about 110°F); 0.5 cup granulated sugar; 2.25 tsp active dry yeast; 2 large eggs (room temperature); 0.33 cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly); 4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp kosher salt; 0.5 cup unsalted butter (softened, for filling); 1 cup light brown sugar (packed, for filling); 2.5 tbsp ground cinnamon (for filling); 4 oz cream cheese (softened, for frosting); 0.25 cup unsalted butter (softened, for frosting); 1.5 cup powdered sugar (for frosting); 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting); 2 tbsp heavy cream (plus more to thin if needed, for frosting); 0.125 tsp fine sea salt (for frosting)

why make this recipe

If you love warm, gooey cinnamon rolls, then these Easy Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for you! They capture the delightful taste of the original Cinnabon while being simple to make at home. You can enjoy the sweet aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls and impress your friends and family with your baking skills. Not to mention, they are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert!

how to make Easy Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients

1 cup whole milk (warm, about 110°F)
0.5 cup granulated sugar
2.25 tsp active dry yeast
2 large eggs (room temperature)
0.33 cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly)
4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp kosher salt
0.5 cup unsalted butter (softened, for filling)
1 cup light brown sugar (packed, for filling)
2.5 tbsp ground cinnamon (for filling)
4 oz cream cheese (softened, for frosting)
0.25 cup unsalted butter (softened, for frosting)
1.5 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
2 tbsp heavy cream (plus more to thin if needed, for frosting)
0.125 tsp fine sea salt (for frosting)

Directions

Start by warming the milk to about 110°F. In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it froths.
Add the eggs and melted butter into the mixture. Mix well.
Gradually add the flour and kosher salt to the bowl. Stir until the dough comes together.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
Spread the softened butter for the filling over the dough. In a bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle it over the buttered dough evenly.
Starting from one end, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
Place the rolls into a greased baking dish. Cover and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
While the rolls bake, prepare the frosting by whipping together the cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, heavy cream, and sea salt until smooth.
Once the rolls are done, let them cool for a few minutes and then spread the frosting on top while they are still warm.

how to serve Easy Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls

Serve these warm cinnamon rolls fresh out of the oven. They are best enjoyed right away with a generous dollop of frosting on top. You can also serve them with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect treat!

how to store Easy Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls

To store leftover cinnamon rolls, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

tips to make Easy Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls

Make sure your milk is warm but not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.
Knead the dough well to develop gluten for the right texture.
If your dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
Don’t skip the second rise! It makes the rolls fluffy and soft.

variation

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or raisins to the filling for a twist on the classic flavor. If you love cream cheese frosting, try adding a little more cream cheese for extra richness!

FAQs

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. Just skip the proofing step and mix it directly with the flour.

2. How can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
You can prepare the rolls, place them in the baking dish, and refrigerate them overnight before baking. Just let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

3. Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, you can substitute with almond milk, soy milk, or any other milk of your choice. Just ensure it is warm when mixing with the yeast.