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This Cinnamon Roll Hack transforms simple canned cinnamon rolls into gooey bakery-worthy treats with the help of a few pantry staples. It is perfect for a quick weekend breakfast or a sweet brunch surprise. The extra creamy icing and bubbling cinnamon syrup take things to the next level every time.
My family always requests this any time we have a cozy breakfast at home. The first time I made it was on a lazy Saturday and I have never gone back to plain canned cinnamon rolls since.
Ingredients
- Canned cinnamon rolls: this is the base for the dish and a reliable shortcut for quick treats choose a brand with a soft texture for best results
- Heavy whipping cream: makes the rolls extra rich and keeps them super moist try to go for a high-fat cream for silkier results
- Butter: melted butter infuses each bite with richness unsalted is best for controlling sweetness
- Brown sugar: adds caramel-like sweetness opt for a soft fresh brown sugar for easier mixing
- Ground cinnamon: boosts the spiced flavor and coziness always check for fresh and fragrant cinnamon
- Butter for icing: softened this helps create a fluffy and smooth topping use real butter for best taste
- Cream cheese: softened brings tang and creaminess to the icing look for the block type rather than whipped
- Powdered sugar: creates the classic sweet icing sift if lumpy for smoothest results
- Heavy whipping cream for icing: adds silkiness to the topping start with a little and add more for desired consistency
- Vanilla extract: rounds out the flavors pure vanilla makes a difference in the icing
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Grease a 7x11 casserole dish or baking pan to prevent sticking. Arrange the cinnamon rolls in the dish with some room between each one for expansion
- Soak with Whipping Cream:
- Pour the heavy whipping cream evenly over and around the cinnamon rolls so they soak up moisture as they bake
- Mix and Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- In a small bowl mix together melted butter brown sugar and cinnamon until smooth. Spoon and drizzle this mixture over each cinnamon roll covering as much as possible for deep caramel flavor
- Bake the Rolls:
- Place the uncovered dish in a preheated 375 degree oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the rolls are puffed golden and the filling bubbles
- Prepare the Icing:
- In a mixing bowl combine softened butter softened cream cheese heavy whipping cream powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Use an electric hand mixer to whip everything together until light fluffy and creamy
- Ice and Serve:
- Remove baked rolls from oven and let cool briefly. Generously spread or dollop the whipped icing over warm rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy the gooey sweetness
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Whenever I bake these cinnamon rolls my favorite part is swirling on the icing and watching it melt into the warm tops. My dad always sneaks into the kitchen for the first gooey center before anyone else can claim it.
Storage Tips
Leftover cinnamon rolls keep well covered in the refrigerator for two to three days. For best flavor rewarm in the oven at 300 degrees just until heated through. I like wrapping each roll individually to keep them extra soft.
Ingredient Substitutions
No heavy cream on hand Milk can work in a pinch but the rolls will be less rich. You can use plant-based butter for the dairy if you need a vegan version just find a vegan cream cheese substitute for the icing. Brown sugar can be swapped with coconut sugar for a subtle twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cinnamon rolls warm with extra icing for drizzling. I love topping each one with chopped pecans or a bit of orange zest for a brunch spread. For a special touch sprinkle with flaked sea salt or toasted nuts for extra crunch.
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Cultural and Historical Context
Cinnamon rolls have roots in Scandinavian baking especially Swedish kanelbullar. This shortcut method gives you that bakery feel with minimal work. The addition of cream is a Southern U S tradition to make cinnamon rolls even more decadent for holiday breakfasts.
Recipe FAQs
- → How does adding heavy cream affect cinnamon rolls?
Pouring heavy cream over cinnamon rolls creates steam and helps the rolls absorb moisture, making them softer and fluffier.
- → Can I use homemade dough instead of canned?
Yes, this technique works with homemade cinnamon roll dough for even better flavor and texture.
- → Which type of icing is best for topping?
Cream cheese icing adds tangy richness, but classic powdered sugar glaze works well for a lighter finish.
- → How do I avoid soggy cinnamon rolls?
Bake uncovered and drain excess liquid after baking if needed. Rolls will still be moist but not soggy.
- → What can I add for extra flavor?
Try adding chopped nuts, orange zest, or a sprinkle of nutmeg to the butter mixture for extra depth.