Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Nothing compares to the soft, gooey, and sweet decadence of Cinnabon cinnamon rolls. This copycat recipe allows you to recreate the iconic taste of these irresistible rolls right at home. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any time you want a comforting treat, this recipe is simple yet indulgent.

Ingredients

Dough:

• 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt

Filling:

• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 ½ tbsp ground cinnamon
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened

Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, mix warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
   • Add sugar, eggs, and melted butter. Mix until combined.
   • Gradually add flour and salt, stirring to form a soft dough.
   • Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Set aside.
   • Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a 16×12-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
   • Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
3. Shape the Rolls:
   • Starting from the long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log.
   • Cut the log into 12 equal slices using a sharp knife or dental floss.
   • Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
4. Bake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Make the Frosting:
   • Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
   • Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, and continue beating until creamy.
6. Frost and Serve:
   • Spread the cream cheese frosting over warm cinnamon rolls. Serve immediately for the best flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Enjoy these cinnamon rolls fresh from the oven while still warm and gooey. Pair them with coffee or hot cocoa for a delightful treat.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, microwave for 15–20 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it after the first rise. Allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

2. Can I freeze the rolls?
Absolutely! Freeze unbaked rolls on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before baking as directed.

3. What if I don’t have cream cheese for the frosting?
You can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or leave it out entirely for a buttercream-like frosting.

4. Can I use a bread machine for the dough?
Yes! Add the dough ingredients to your bread machine in the order recommended by the manufacturer, and select the dough setting. Proceed with the recipe after the first rise.

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