Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe {Copycat Cinnabon Recipe}

If you’re looking for a cozy, sweet treat that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! The Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe {Copycat Cinnabon Recipe} is a delightful way to bring some joy into your kitchen. Imagine soft, fluffy rolls bursting with cinnamon goodness, topped with creamy icing that melts in your mouth. Trust me; this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household!

These cinnamon rolls are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weekend brunch with friends or a special family gathering. They’re easy to whip up and will fill your home with an irresistible aroma. Plus, nothing beats the satisfaction of telling everyone you made them from scratch!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and perfect for beginners! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious rolls rising in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cinnamon rolls! They make for a delicious breakfast or dessert that the whole family can enjoy together.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare these rolls in advance and bake them fresh whenever you’re ready. Perfect for busy mornings!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates an explosion of flavor that makes every bite heavenly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! These are simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Each one plays an important role in crafting those gooey, delicious rolls.

For the Dough

• 6 tbsp butter
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 eggs
• 4 cups flour
• 1 (1/4 ounce) package active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk

For the Filling

• ⅓ cup butter, softened
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 3 tbsp cinnamon

For the Icing

• 1½ cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup cream cheese
• ½ tsp vanilla
• ⅛ tsp salt

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these ideas:

• Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch to your rolls.
• Fruit Twist: Toss in some raisins or diced apples for added sweetness and texture.
• Spice It Up: Try adding nutmeg or cardamom along with the cinnamon for a unique flavor profile.
• Frosting Alternatives: Experiment with different flavored icings like maple or chocolate to switch things up!

How to Make Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe {Copycat Cinnabon Recipe}

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

To start the rolls, dissolve the yeast in warm milk in a large bowl. This step is crucial because activating the yeast properly ensures your rolls will rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine sugar, butter, salt, eggs, and flour. Mixing these ingredients well lays down the base for your dough. Pour in the milk/yeast mixture and mix until everything is well incorporated. If you have a stand mixer, use the dough hook—it makes this process so much easier!

Step 3: Let It Rise

Transfer your dough into an oiled bowl, cover it up, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour. This is where all that magic happens as it doubles in size!

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, roll out the dough on a silicone mat or lightly floured surface until it’s roughly 16-18 inches long by 12 inches wide. Aim for about ¼ inch thickness; this helps ensure every bite is soft and fluffy.

Step 5: Make the Filling

Combine softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl to create your filling. Spread this mixture evenly over your rolled-out dough—a generous layer here makes each roll scrumptious!

Step 6: Shape Your Rolls

Starting from one long edge, carefully roll down towards the bottom edge until you have an 18-inch long roll. Slice it into 1½ inch pieces so they’re perfectly portioned.

Step 7: Second Rise

Place these cut rolls into an oiled 13×9 inch pan and cover them with a damp towel. Let them rise again for about 30 minutes until they double in size again—it’s worth the wait!

Step 8: Bake Them Up!

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and bake those beauties for about 20 minutes or until golden brown. Get ready—your house will smell absolutely divine!

Step 9: Whip Up Some Icing

While those rolls are baking away, mix together all icing ingredients using an electric mixer until fluffy. Once your rolls are done baking and slightly cooled, drizzle that luscious icing on top.

And there you have it! A batch of sweet happiness ready to be devoured. Enjoy every bite of your homemade cinnamon rolls!

Pro Tips for Making Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe {Copycat Cinnabon Recipe}

Making the perfect cinnamon rolls can be a delightful experience, and these pro tips will help ensure your rolls come out fluffy and delicious every time!

• Use fresh yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast. Fresh yeast activates better, ensuring your rolls rise beautifully.
• Warm milk is key: When dissolving the yeast, make sure your milk is warm but not hot. This helps the yeast activate properly without killing it.
• Don’t rush the rising times: Allowing your dough to rise until it doubles in size is crucial for that light and airy texture. Patience pays off in flavor!
• Roll evenly: When rolling out your dough, aim for an even thickness. This ensures uniform baking and keeps each bite consistent.
• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits to the filling for an extra touch of flavor and texture. Get creative with what you have at home!

How to Serve Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe {Copycat Cinnabon Recipe}

Once your cinnamon rolls are fresh out of the oven, it’s time to serve them! Here are some fun ideas to present this delightful treat.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts adds a lovely crunch and complements the sweetness of the rolls.
• Fresh fruit: Slices of strawberries or bananas on the side can brighten up the plate and add a refreshing touch.
• Cinnamon dust: A light dusting of ground cinnamon over the icing offers a beautiful appearance while enhancing that classic cinnamon flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of your cinnamon rolls, making for a balanced breakfast or dessert.
• Yogurt parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and berries creates a creamy and crunchy side that pairs perfectly with warm rolls.
• Coffee or tea: Serving these rolls with a hot cup of coffee or herbal tea elevates the experience, creating a cozy atmosphere for brunch.
• Oven-baked eggs: Whip up some simple baked eggs seasoned with herbs as a savory complement that rounds out your meal nicely.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a delightful spread that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy every bite of your homemade cinnamon rolls!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe {Copycat Cinnabon Recipe} is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, warm cinnamon rolls anytime! Here are some tips for storing and enjoying your rolls later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool completely.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Enjoy within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• After baking, let the cinnamon rolls cool completely.
• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen cinnamon rolls, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.
• Warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
• For microwave reheating, place a roll on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Have questions about this delightful recipe? I’ve got you covered!

Can I make the Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe {Copycat Cinnabon Recipe} ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling in advance. Just follow the steps up until the second rise, cover the rolls, and refrigerate them overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature before baking.

What makes this recipe better than other cinnamon roll recipes?

The combination of rich cream cheese icing and a perfectly spiced filling brings out that classic Cinnabon flavor. This Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe {Copycat Cinnabon Recipe} is designed to be soft, fluffy, and oh-so-delicious!

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes! If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk. For a dairy-free option, consider using coconut cream instead of cream cheese.

How do I know when my cinnamon rolls are done baking?

Your cinnamon rolls should be golden brown on top. You can also insert a toothpick into one of the center rolls; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they’re ready!

Can I add nuts or raisins to the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch or raisins for added sweetness. Just keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe {Copycat Cinnabon Recipe} as much as I do! There’s something truly special about creating these soft, gooey delights right in your kitchen. Whether for breakfast or dessert, they’re sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!