Perfect Clone of a Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll

Name: Perfect Clone of a Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 140 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup warm milk (about 45°C (110°F)); 2 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast (or one packet); 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted); 2 large eggs (room temperature); 4 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup brown sugar (packed); 2 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 1/3 cup unsalted butter (softened); 110 grams cream cheese (softened); 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (sifted); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

140 min 12 servings Medium

All Recipes

Recreate the Cinnabon experience at home with this spot-on cinnamon roll recipe. Soft, gooey, and deliciously spiced.

Prep

30 min

Cook

20 min

Total

140 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

If you've ever wandered through a mall, you've likely been drawn in by the irresistible aroma of Cinnabon's famous cinnamon rolls. These indulgent treats are known for their soft, fluffy texture and gooey cinnamon-sugar filling, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Our clone of a Cinnabon recipe brings those iconic flavours straight to your kitchen. With a few pantry staples and some time, you can recreate this indulgent treat without leaving the house. This recipe is perfect for cinnamon roll lovers who want the taste of Cinnabon at home, whether for a special breakfast or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.

Instructions

Prepare the yeast mixture

In a large bowl, mix the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

Pro tip: The milk should be warm to the touch, not hot.

Form the dough

Add melted butter, eggs, and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add flour and mix until a soft dough forms.

Pro tip: Dough should be slightly sticky but pull away from the bowl sides.

Knead the dough

Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Pro tip: If dough sticks, sprinkle with a little more flour.

First rise

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Pro tip: A sunny windowsill or a lightly warmed oven (off) makes a perfect spot.

Prepare the filling

Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Roll out dough into a 40x30 cm (16x12 inch) rectangle, spread with butter, and sprinkle with sugar-cinnamon mixture.

Pro tip: Ensure butter covers the entire surface for even flavour.

Shape the rolls

Roll the dough tightly from the long side and cut into 12 slices. Place in a greased 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish.

Pro tip: Use dental floss to cut cleanly through the dough.

Second rise

Cover rolls and let rise for 30 minutes until puffy.

Pro tip: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) during this time.

Bake

Bake rolls in preheated oven for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.

Pro tip: Avoid overbaking to keep centres gooey.

Prepare the frosting

Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Spread over warm rolls.

Pro tip: For extra smooth frosting, sift powdered sugar before mixing.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise.
Use room temperature butter for easier spreading.
For a gooey centre, don't overbake.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this a clone of a Cinnabon?

This recipe mimics the soft texture and signature cream cheese frosting of Cinnabon's famous rolls.

How many calories are in a clone of a Cinnabon?

Each cinnamon roll contains approximately 450 calories.

Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the rolls, refrigerate overnight, and bake after a 30-minute rise at room temperature.

What is the best way to cut cinnamon rolls?

Use unflavoured dental floss to slice through the dough cleanly.

How should I store leftover cinnamon rolls?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, substitute equal amounts, but you may skip the yeast proofing step.

What temperature should the milk be for the dough?

The milk should be about 45°C (110°F), warm to the touch but not hot.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cinnamon rolls warm, topped generously with cream cheese frosting. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. To make ahead, prepare the rolls, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them rise at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.

Nutrition per serving

450

Calories

Protein

20g

Fat

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