Cinnabon Copycat Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 3 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warmed milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and egg.
- Mix until a dough forms. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 6-8 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling:
- While the dough is rising, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using) in a bowl. Set aside.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle, about 16×12 inches.
- Assemble the Rolls:
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
- Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough up into a tight log. Pinch the seam to seal.
- Cut the roll into 12 equal pieces using a serrated knife or dental floss.
- Bake the Rolls:
- Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and let them rise for about 30 minutes, or until puffy.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare the Frosting:
- While the rolls are baking, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until combined. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Add milk, a tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
- Finish the Rolls:
- Once the rolls are baked, let them cool slightly before spreading the cream cheese frosting over the top. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips:
- Ensure your milk is warmed to the right temperature (110°F) to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Kneading the dough well develops the gluten, making the rolls light and fluffy.
- If you prefer a gooier texture, you can drizzle some of the frosting between the layers before baking.
Enjoy your homemade cinnamon rolls, which should be delightfully soft and bursting with cinnamon flavor, just like the ones from Cinnabon!
