Ingredients
Dough Ingredients









Filling Ingredients









Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients






Instructions
Step 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. This ensures your dough will rise properly.
Add sugar, eggs, and melted butter to the yeast mixture and mix well. Gradually incorporate flour until a soft dough forms. The amount of flour may vary, so add it bit by bit until the dough is manageable.
Step 2
Once the dough is combined, transfer it to a floured surface. Knead for about 5-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. This step is crucial for creating a fluffy texture in your Cinnabons.
Form it into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, covering it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, approximately 1 hour.
Step 3
While the dough is rising, mix cinnamon, sugar, and cocoa powder in a small bowl. This mixture will add a delightful sweetness to your rolls.
Step 4
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle about half an inch thick. Brush the surface with softened butter and sprinkle the cinnamon filling evenly across the top.
Starting from one end, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut it into equal segments, about 2 inches thick, to form your Cinnabons.
Step 5
Place the cut rolls into a greased baking dish, making sure they are close together. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 6
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Brush the tops of the rolls with a mixture of egg and milk for a golden finish.
Bake for about 30-40 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The delicious aroma will fill your kitchen!
Step 7
In another bowl, beat together cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. This frosting will add a lovely sweetness to your Cinnabons.
Step 8
Once the Cinnabons are out of the oven, let them cool slightly before generously spreading the cream cheese frosting on top. This will melt slightly into the rolls, enhancing their flavor.
Enjoy your lovely homemade Cinnabons, and be prepared to share the deliciousness with loved ones!
Servings
These delightful cinnamon rolls are best served warm from the oven. 🔥 Pair them with a cup of coffee or your favorite tea for an indulgent treat. For a **special touch**, drizzle a little extra frosting on top just before serving, or sprinkle some chopped nuts for added crunch. 🥜✨ They make a fantastic breakfast option, a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, or even a cozy dessert. Just imagine enjoying a plate of fresh Cinnabons at a weekend brunch with friends and family! 🎉💖
Looking for a fun presentation? Consider serving them on a bright platter and dusting with powdered sugar for an eye-catching centerpiece. You can also place small, fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries around the rolls to add a pop of color and freshness. 🍓❤️
Equipment
A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining your ingredients thoroughly. Look for one with a non-slip bottom for convenience.



This tool will help you roll out the dough to the perfect thickness. Choose a lightweight one for better control.



A 9x13 inch baking dish is ideal for this recipe. Make sure it’s oven-safe and preferably non-stick for easier cleanup.



A whisk is perfect for blending your wet ingredients smoothly, especially for the cream frosting at the end!



Variations
If you're looking for **gluten-free** options, try substituting regular flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure that the blend you choose includes a thickener like xanthan gum for the dough to rise effectively. 🍞🌾 For a **vegan** variation, use plant-based milk, replace the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water, and choose a vegan butter alternative for a deliciously dairy-free treat. 🌱✨
Feel free to get creative with flavors too! Consider adding chocolate chips, or nutmeg, or even some citrus zest to the dough for a unique twist on the classic recipe. 🍫🍊
Faq
- What if my dough doesn't rise properly?
If your dough doesn’t rise, ensure your yeast is fresh and your environment is warm. Try letting it rest in a slightly warm area, like an oven preheated for a minute and then turned off.
- How can I prevent my rolls from getting hard?
To keep your Cinnabons soft, avoid over-baking them. Once they begin to turn golden brown, take them out. Storing them in an airtight container after they cool will also help maintain their softness.
- Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dough and let it rise, then shape the rolls. You can cover them and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.
- What can I do with leftover frosting?
Leftover frosting can be used on other baked goods like brownies, pancakes, or even as a dip for fruits! Just store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Why are my Cinnabons not as fluffy as I hoped?
Make sure to not overcrowd the rolls when placing them in the baking dish. Leave a little room for them to expand while baking, which helps them rise.
- Can I substitute the butter in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use margarine or a vegan butter substitute to make the rolls dairy-free. Just keep the same amount for the best ratio.