Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Cinnabon’s Cinnamon Rolls are famous for their soft, fluffy texture, gooey cinnamon-sugar filling, and rich, creamy frosting. This homemade copycat recipe delivers the same bakery-style flavor with melt-in-your-mouth goodness, all made from scratch!

These warm, sweet, and decadent cinnamon rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, and they taste just like the ones from Cinnabon!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Soft and Fluffy Dough

• Made with butter, milk, and eggs for a pillowy texture.

Rich, Buttery Cinnamon Filling

• A perfect balance of brown sugar and cinnamon for an authentic Cinnabon taste.

Thick and Creamy Cream Cheese Frosting

• The signature Cinnabon-style frosting that melts into every swirl.

Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly

• Prep the night before or freeze for later.

Better Than Store-Bought!

• No preservatives, artificial flavors, or high costs—just homemade deliciousness!

What Are Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls?

Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls are famous bakery-style cinnamon buns, known for their soft, sweet dough, rich cinnamon filling, and thick cream cheese frosting. This copycat recipe recreates the same melt-in-your-mouth experience at home!

Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C) – Activates the yeast and softens the dough.
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet) – Helps the dough rise.
• ½ cup granulated sugar – Adds a slight sweetness to the dough.
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter (melted) – Keeps the rolls soft and rich.
• 2 large eggs (room temperature) – Adds structure and moisture.
• 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Creates the perfect dough texture.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor.

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• ¾ cup brown sugar (packed) – Gives the signature gooey texture.
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon – Provides deep, warm flavor.
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter (softened) – Helps the filling stick to the dough.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese (softened) – Creates a thick, tangy frosting.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened) – Adds richness.
• 1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor.
• 1 tablespoon milk (optional, for a thinner consistency) – Adjusts texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Stir in sugar, melted butter, eggs, and salt. Mix until combined.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. Gradually add flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

1. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
2. Spread softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough.
3. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered surface.

Step 4: Roll and Cut the Dough

1. Roll the dough into a large rectangle (about 16×12 inches).
2. Tightly roll it from the long edge, forming a log.
3. Slice into 12 even rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.

Step 5: Second Rise

1. Place rolls in a greased 9×13 baking dish.
2. Cover and let them rise for 30–45 minutes, until puffy.

Step 6: Bake the Cinnamon Rolls

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until golden brown on top.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a bowl, beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Spread over warm cinnamon rolls.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

• Serve warm and enjoy the gooey, soft, and sweet flavors!

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What to Serve with Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls

Classic Pairings

• Hot Coffee or Latte – Balances the sweetness.
• Vanilla or Caramel Iced Coffee – A great cold beverage pairing.

Brunch Additions

• Scrambled Eggs– A savory contrast to balance the meal.
• Fruit Salad – Adds freshness to your plate.

Expert Tips for Mastering Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls

Use Warm Milk to Activate the Yeast

• The milk should be around 110°F (43°C)—not too hot, or it will kill the yeast.

Knead the Dough for a Soft Texture

• Kneading develops the gluten, making the rolls light and fluffy.

Let the Dough Rise Fully for the Best Results

• A slow, steady rise creates a lighter texture.

Don’t Overbake the Rolls

• Bake just until golden brown to keep them soft and gooey inside.

For Extra Gooeyness, Add Heavy Cream Before Baking

• Pour ½ cup warm heavy cream over the rolls before baking for a richer texture.

Variations of Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls

Caramel Pecan Cinnamon Rolls

• Add ½ cup chopped pecans and drizzle with caramel sauce.

Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls

• Mix 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice into the cinnamon filling.

Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls

• Sprinkle ½ cup mini chocolate chips into the filling before rolling.

Overnight Cinnamon Rolls

• Prepare rolls the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake in the morning.

How to Store Leftover Cinnamon Rolls

Refrigerate for Up to 4 Days

• Store in an airtight container and reheat before serving.

Reheat for the Best Texture

• Microwave: Heat for 15–20 seconds for soft rolls.
• Oven: Warm at 300°F for 10 minutes for a fresh-baked feel.

Freeze for Up to 3 Months

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Nutrition Value (Per Cinnamon Roll)

• Calories: 420
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 18g
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 320mg

FAQs

Can I make Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls without a stand mixer?

Yes! You can mix and knead the dough by hand—it just takes a little longer.

Why are my cinnamon rolls dry?

They may be overbaked—reduce baking time by a few minutes for a softer texture.

Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can refrigerate overnight and bake fresh in the morning.

What is the secret to gooey cinnamon rolls?

Adding heavy cream before baking makes them extra gooey and soft!

Final Words

This Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls recipe creates soft, gooey, and delicious homemade rolls that taste like the real thing. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these easy-to-make cinnamon rolls are guaranteed to impress!

Try them today and bring the taste of Cinnabon to your kitchen!

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