Jumbo Cinnamon Rolls (Like Cinnabon) Recipe

If you have a soft spot for warm, gooey, and utterly irresistible pastries, you are going to fall head over heels for these Jumbo Cinnamon Rolls (Like Cinnabon). They are the perfect weekend treat that fills your kitchen with the most comforting aroma of cinnamon and brown sugar, all wrapped up in pillowy dough that’s rich, buttery, and baked to golden perfection. These rolls are just the right size to indulge without guilt and boast the luscious cream cheese icing that pulls everything together beautifully. Whether it’s a special breakfast or a decadent dessert, these cinnamon rolls will become your new go-to for cozy moments at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the soft texture, rich flavor, and irresistible aroma that make these Jumbo Cinnamon Rolls (Like Cinnabon) unforgettable.

• Whole milk (1 ½ cup, warmed to 110F): Helps activate the yeast and adds moisture to the dough for a tender crumb.
• Instant dry yeast (1 packet, 2 ¼ teaspoons): The magic behind the fluffy rise of the dough.
• Granulated sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the dough and feeds the yeast for a better rise.
• Bread flour (5 ¼ – 5 ¾ cups): Provides structure and chewiness; measuring correctly is key for the perfect texture.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances flavors and strengthens the dough’s gluten network.
• Large eggs (2): Add richness and help bind the dough together.
• Unsalted butter (8 tablespoons, softened): Adds tenderness and that silky richness to the dough.
• Unsalted butter (10 tablespoons, semi-melted): Essential for the cinnamony filling’s luscious texture.
• Brown sugar (1 ¼ cup): Gives the filling its rich, caramel-like sweetness.
• Ground cinnamon (2 tablespoons): The warm, spicy signature flavor in every bite.
• Heavy cream (½ cup): Poured over before baking to lock in moisture and create a golden crust.
• Powdered sugar (1 ¼ cup): The base for the smooth, sweet icing.
• Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): Adds tang and creaminess to the frosting that balances the sweet cinnamon filling.
• Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, softened): Works with cream cheese to create a luscious, spreadable icing.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the flavors and adds a subtle aromatic note to the icing.
• Milk or heavy cream (1–2 tablespoons): Adjusts the icing’s consistency to your perfect spreadability.

How to Make Jumbo Cinnamon Rolls (Like Cinnabon)

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by combining warm whole milk, instant dry yeast, sugar, 5 ¼ cups of flour, salt, eggs, and softened butter in a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky but not overly sticky, so add more flour gradually up to 5 ¾ cups if needed. Knead on medium-low speed for about 5 minutes, or 10 minutes by hand, aiming for a smooth and elastic dough that promises a perfect fluffy texture once baked.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Transfer your dough to a large greased bowl and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 45 minutes until it roughly doubles in size. If your kitchen is cooler, this might take up to an hour. A great tip is to preheat your oven to 100F, turn it off, and place the covered dough inside for a cozy rise environment. This step is critical because a well-risen dough means light, airy rolls that melt in your mouth.

Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Filling

While waiting, mix the filling by beating together the semi-melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. This mixture needs to be smooth and spreadable for the most even and flavorful swirl inside each roll, giving them that classic, sticky sweetness we all adore.

Step 4: Roll Out and Spread

Once the dough has risen, punch it down lightly and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a large 14×20 inch rectangle, then generously spread your cinnamon filling evenly over the dough. This is where the magic really starts taking shape with every inch oozing with cinnamon and sugar goodness.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Carefully roll the dough up starting from the short edge, forming a tight log. Use a sharp knife to cut this log into 8 equal pieces, each of which promises to be a jumbo, gooey cinnamon roll. Place the rolls cut-side up into a greased 13×9 inch pan, then cover with plastic wrap to let them rise again as you preheat the oven to 350F.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Before baking, pour the heavy cream evenly over the tops of the rolls. This extra step helps create a moist, golden crust on top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the rolls are beautifully golden brown and smelling like heaven just out of an expert bakery.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing

While the rolls bake, whip together softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy, then add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Adjust the consistency with milk or heavy cream as needed, aiming for a thick yet spreadable icing that will complement the warm, fragrant rolls perfectly.

Step 8: Ice and Serve Warm

Spread the luscious cream cheese icing generously over the cinnamon rolls while they are still warm from the oven. This warm icing seeps into every swirl, creating that signature gooey, dreamy texture that makes these Jumbo Cinnamon Rolls (Like Cinnabon) an absolute must-make for cinnamon roll lovers everywhere.

How to Serve Jumbo Cinnamon Rolls (Like Cinnabon)

Garnishes

While these cinnamon rolls are stunning all on their own, adding a simple garnish can make them extra special. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a few chopped pecans can add texture and visual appeal. Fresh slices of fruit like strawberries or orange wedges can also offer a bright contrast to the rich sweetness.

Side Dishes

Serve your Jumbo Cinnamon Rolls (Like Cinnabon) alongside a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or a cold glass of milk for a classic combo. For a brunch spread, add fresh fruit salad and perhaps scrambled eggs to balance the sweetness with savory flavors. These rolls also pair nicely with a creamy yogurt parfait to keep things light.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Serve these jumbo rolls on a rustic wooden board or a colorful ceramic platter. Drizzle extra icing in a decorative zigzag pattern or top with edible flowers for a charming, café-style look. You can even slice them horizontally and add a layer of fresh fruit or nuts inside for a beautiful surprise!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These cinnamon rolls taste amazing even the next day. Keep leftovers covered tightly at room temperature or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To preserve that fresh-baked softness, warming them slightly before serving is ideal.

Freezing

Planning ahead? You can freeze the unbaked rolls after the second rise by wrapping the pan tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before baking as directed. You can also freeze baked rolls, wrapped well, then thaw and reheat gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftover Jumbo Cinnamon Rolls (Like Cinnabon) in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300F for 10 minutes to restore their fresh-from-the-oven softness. Adding a bit of water and covering with foil while reheating in the oven can keep them extra moist.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to dissolve the active dry yeast in the warm milk along with a pinch of sugar and let it proof for about 5 to 10 minutes until bubbly before adding other ingredients.

What type of flour is best?

Bread flour is preferred for its higher protein content, which gives the rolls better structure and chewiness. However, all-purpose flour can be used if bread flour is not available, just be mindful of the dough’s texture.

Can I make smaller rolls instead of jumbo ones?

Absolutely! Just cut the rolled dough into more slices for smaller rolls. Adjust baking time accordingly, usually 15 to 20 minutes, watching closely so they don’t over-bake.

Is there a way to make these rolls vegan?

Yes, substituting plant-based milk and butter alternatives is possible, and using egg replacers helps make the dough vegan. Keep in mind the texture might vary slightly but still delicious!

Can I prepare the dough the night before?

Definitely! Let the dough rise once, then refrigerate overnight covered tightly. The next day, bring it to room temperature before continuing with shaping, filling, rising, and baking.

Final Thoughts

These Jumbo Cinnamon Rolls (Like Cinnabon) are a warm hug from the oven that brighten any morning or sweeten any afternoon. Baking them at home is surprisingly simple and rewarding, leaving you with cinnamon rolls that taste even better than the bakery originals. Trust me, giving this recipe a whirl will have you reaching for seconds, thirds, and maybe even fourths because once you try these, it’s impossible to stop at just one!

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