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Better Than Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls

Better Than Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls


  • Author: Brian
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Better Than Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls offer irresistibly fluffy, gooey cinnamon rolls bursting with warm cinnamon spice and topped with a luxuriously rich plant-based frosting. Featuring a soft, tender dough with a sweet and spicy filling, these cinnamon rolls bring bakery-quality joy to your kitchen, perfect for a delicious indulgence anytime.


Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 cup plant-based milk, warmed to lukewarm
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Cinnamon Filling

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Plant-Based Frosting

  • 4 ounces plant-based cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup natural powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon natural vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon natural gelling agent

Optional Variations Add-Ins

  • Chopped walnuts or pecans (for nutty delight)
  • Raisins or finely chopped dates (for fruit twist)
  • Pinch of cardamom or nutmeg (for spice boost)
  • Dairy-free chocolate spread (for chocolate heaven)
  • Gluten-free flour blend (for gluten-free option)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Warm the plant-based milk until lukewarm, then sprinkle the active dry yeast over it and allow it to bloom for about 5 minutes until frothy. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil, then knead the dough until soft and elastic, either by hand or with a mixer fitted with a dough hook. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, roughly 1 to 1.5 hours.
  2. Mix the Cinnamon Filling: While the dough is rising, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. This fragrant mixture will spread a heavenly aroma throughout your kitchen and create that signature gooey pocket inside your rolls.
  3. Roll and Fill the Dough: Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle approximately 12 by 16 inches. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the dough, then carefully roll the dough, starting from the longer side, into a tight log. Trim the edges if necessary.
  4. Slice and Arrange Rolls: Use a sharp knife or dental floss to slice the log into even rolls about 1.5 inches thick. Place these rolls snugly into a greased baking dish or tray, cover again, and let them rise for another 30 to 40 minutes until puffy.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through but still soft. Keep an eye on them so they do not overbake and lose their gooey charm.
  6. Prepare the Plant-Based Frosting: While the rolls bake, beat together the plant-based cream cheese, natural powdered sugar, natural vanilla extract, and a pinch of natural gelling agent until smooth and creamy. This frosting will add the perfect luscious touch when spread on warm rolls.
  7. Frost and Serve: Once the rolls are baked, allow them to cool for a few minutes before generously spreading the plant-based frosting over the top. Serve warm for the ultimate melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Notes

  • Proof the yeast properly by using warm (not hot) plant-based milk to activate the yeast efficiently for a good rise.
  • Do not skip the second rise; it makes all the difference in softness and texture.
  • Use fresh cinnamon for a fuller, vibrant spice flavor that really shines through.
  • Roll tightly but gently to help the rolls hold their shape while keeping them light.
  • Spread the frosting while rolls are warm so it melts slightly and sinks into every crease.
  • You can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise and bake the next day. Bring to room temperature before shaping.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • Freeze unbaked rolled dough wrapped in plastic wrap, or fully baked and cooled cinnamon rolls in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheat rolls in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes or in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds, then add a fresh layer of plant-based frosting.
  • Prep Time: 2 hours
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cinnamon roll
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: cinnamon rolls, plant-based frosting, vegan cinnamon rolls, soft cinnamon rolls, gooey cinnamon rolls, bakery-style cinnamon rolls, homemade cinnamon rolls