Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade version of the classic Cinnabon cinnamon rolls offers the same indulgent flavor and texture as the original, but with the added satisfaction of knowing exactly what goes into them. The dough is soft and fluffy, the filling is sweet and spicy, and the frosting is decadently creamy. Plus, the entire house will smell like a bakery as these rolls bake to golden perfection.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)

• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• 4 ½ cups bread flour

For the Filling:

• 1 cup packed light brown sugar

• 2 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon

• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

• ⅛ teaspoon salt

Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy.

2. Mix Ingredients: Add sugar, melted butter, salt, eggs, and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

5. Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon.

6. Roll Out Dough: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 16x21-inch rectangle.

7. Add Filling: Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

8. Form Rolls: Starting from the longer side, tightly roll up the dough. Cut into 12 equal slices.

9. Second Rise: Place the rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise for about 30 minutes.

10. Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the rolls for 15 minutes, or until golden brown.

11. Prepare Frosting: While the rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.

12. Frost Rolls: Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 rolls

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Rising Time: 1 hour + 30 minutes

• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours

Variations

• Overnight Rolls: Prepare the rolls up to the second rise, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

• Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for added crunch and flavor.

• Spiced Icing: Incorporate a pinch of ground nutmeg or cinnamon into the cream cheese frosting for an extra layer of spice.

• Maple Flavor: Replace vanilla extract in the frosting with maple extract for a maple-infused icing.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Warm individual rolls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or reheat the entire batch in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour; however, bread flour yields a chewier texture due to its higher protein content.

How can I make the dough rise faster?

Place the dough in a warm, draft-free area, such as an oven with the light on or near a warm stovetop.

Can I freeze the cinnamon rolls before baking?

Yes, after assembling the rolls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, place them in a greased pan and let them rise before baking as directed.

Is it necessary to use cream cheese in the frosting?

While cream cheese provides a tangy flavor, you can substitute with additional powdered sugar and a splash of milk for a sweeter frosting.

Can I make these rolls without eggs?

Yes, you can use an egg substitute like flaxseed meal mixed with water or a commercial egg replacer.

How do I prevent the rolls from becoming too hard?

Ensure not to overbake the rolls; they should be golden brown, not dark brown. Also, avoid over-kneading the dough, which can make it tough.

Can I add raisins or other dried fruits?

Yes, fold in raisins or dried cranberries into the filling mixture before spreading it on the dough.

What if I don't have a 9x13-inch pan?

You can use any similarly sized baking dish, but adjust the baking time as needed.

How do I know when the rolls are done?

The rolls should be golden brown on top and cooked through when tested with a toothpick.

Can I make these rolls gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls recipe brings the beloved mall treat into your home kitchen with ease and delicious results. With soft, fluffy dough, a sweet cinnamon filling, and a rich cream cheese frosting, these rolls are sure to become a favorite for any occasion. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated for a later treat, they offer a comforting and indulgent experience that rivals the original.