copycat cinnamon roll recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best copycat cinnamon roll recipe

I am absolutely obsessed with this copycat cinnamon roll recipe. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s become a staple in our household. My kids can’t get enough of the sweet, gooey filling and the soft, fluffy dough.

It’s perfect for breakfast on-the-go or as a special treat after dinner. What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make. It’s just a few simple ingredients and some basic mixing and rolling techniques.

Even my youngest child can help with the assembly, which makes it a fun family activity. The result is always a batch of perfectly baked cinnamon rolls that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. I’ve tried many different recipes over the years, but this one remains my favorite.

It’s the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors that will leave you wanting more. And the best part? It’s relatively healthy compared to other sweet treats.

With only a few tablespoons of sugar and no artificial preservatives or flavorings, you can feel good about serving these to your family. Plus, they freeze beautifully, so you can make a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week.

Copycat Cinnamon Rolls

4.5 from 961 votes

Soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls with a sweet, gooey filling and a creamy glaze. Perfect for a weekend treat or breakfast.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
1/2 cup warm water
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp salt
1 large egg
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
2 tsp ground cinnamon

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
1-2 tbsp milk
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a small bowl, combine yeast and warm water.
2Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3If it does not froth, discard and start over with new yeast.
4In a large mixing bowl, combine milk, granulated sugar, melted butter, salt, and egg.
5Add the yeast mixture and mix well.
6Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
7Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
8Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
9Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) during the last 10 minutes of rising.
10Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
11Roll the dough into a 10×15 inch rectangle.
12Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
13Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon evenly over the butter.
14Starting from the long side, tightly roll up the dough.
15Cut the roll into 8 equal pieces.
16Place the rolls, cut side down, in a greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
17Cover with a clean towel and let rise for an additional 20 minutes, or until nearly doubled in size.
18Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
19Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
20While the rolls are cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
21Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls and serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Rolling pin
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 55mg🧂Sodium: 350mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 20g🥩Protein: 6g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option. For a more intense cinnamon flavor, increase the amount of cinnamon in the filling. To make ahead, prepare the rolls up to step 6, then refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them rise and bake as directed.

This copycat cinnamon roll recipe is a game-changer for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a special breakfast treat or a sweet dessert for dinner, these rolls are sure to please.

And don’t even get me started on how well they freeze! Simply wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.

To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave until warm.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Copycat Cinnamon Rolls

Q: What type of flour is best for this recipe?

This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which provides a nice balance of strength and tenderness to the dough.

Q: Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can use active dry yeast in place of instant yeast if that’s what you have on hand.

Q: How do I know if my dough has risen enough?

Aim for a dough that has doubled in size after letting it rise for about an hour.

Q: Can I make these rolls ahead of time and store them in the fridge?

You can mix and knead the dough ahead of time, but let it rise at room temperature before assembling the rolls.

Q: Why do my cinnamon rolls always come out so dense?

Makes sure to not overmix the dough and to let it rise long enough to develop the gluten structure.

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