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Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls

Copycat 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!

Ingredients

Scale

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.

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

    1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

    1. 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.

    1. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

    1. 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.

    1. Spread softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough.

    1. 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).

    1. Tightly roll it from the long edge, forming a log.

    1. 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.

    1. 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).

    1. 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.

    1. Spread over warm cinnamon rolls.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

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