I make these CiCi’s Cinnamon Rolls every weekend for a cozy breakfast treat. With their soft, fluffy texture and irresistible cinnamon-sugar filling, they’re a family favorite!

The moment I tried this CiCi’s Cinnamon Rolls recipe, I was amazed! The ingredient list is simple, making it easy for anyone to recreate these delicious rolls at home. You can prepare them quickly with basic pantry ingredients, and they’re perfect for breakfast gatherings and cozy weekend treats.

I bet you’ll love this CiCi’s Cinnamon Rolls copycat recipe as much as I do. With their soft, fluffy texture and rich, gooey cinnamon-sugar filling, they’re an absolute delight. The creamy icing on top adds just the right amount of sweetness, making these rolls irresistible.

What is CiCi’s Cinnamon Rolls?

CiCi’s Cinnamon Rolls are a popular dessert or breakfast treat known for their soft, fluffy dough and rich, gooey cinnamon-sugar filling. Topped with creamy icing, these rolls offer a deliciously sweet and comforting flavor that makes them a favorite for many. They are typically made of flour, yeast, sugar, butter, cinnamon, and cream cheese for the icing.

How to make CiCi’s Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Icing:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons milk

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the melted butter, egg, and yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
   • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon.
   • Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 16×12 inches. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar-cinnamon mixture over the butter.
3. Shape the Rolls:
   • Starting from the long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover the dish and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes.
4. Bake the Rolls:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
5. Prepare the Icing:
   • While the rolls are baking, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, and mix until the icing is creamy and smooth.
6. Ice the Rolls:
   • Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before spreading the icing generously over the top. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips For Perfect CiCi’s Pizza Cinnamon Rolls

• Ensure that the butter, cream cheese, and egg are at room temperature before starting.
• For best results, let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area.
• Use a piece of unflavored dental floss to cut the dough log into rolls without squishing them.
• You can prepare the rolls the night before. After placing the cut rolls in the baking dish, cover and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking in the morning.
• For a different flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the icing.

What to pair with CiCi’s Cinnamon Rolls

My favorite way to enjoy CiCi’s Cinnamon Rolls is with a hot cup of coffee or a latte. The rich, warm flavor of the coffee complements the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls perfectly.

If you prefer tea, a nice chai or black tea can also make a great pairing. For a complete breakfast, you can serve these cinnamon rolls with a side of fresh fruit, like strawberries or apple slices.

You can also pair them with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination. For a more indulgent option, try serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. If you like something savory to balance the sweetness, pair the cinnamon rolls with some scrambled eggs or bacon. Enjoying these delicious rolls with these sides makes for a delightful and satisfying meal.

How to store

To store CiCi’s Cinnamon Rolls, first let them cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent them from drying out. You can store the rolls at room temperature for up to 2 days.

FAQ

How many calories are in a Cici’s cinnamon rolls?

A CiCi’s cinnamon roll contains approximately 320 calories. This calorie count includes the dough, filling, and icing. Keep in mind that the exact calorie count can vary based on portion size and any additional ingredients or variations you might add.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After kneading, cover and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before rolling it out and continuing with the recipe.

How do I prevent my cinnamon rolls from becoming dry?

Make sure to store them in an airtight container once they have cooled. If they do become dry, you can warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds to soften them before serving.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Use the same amount and skip the step of dissolving it in warm milk; instead, add it directly to the dry ingredients.

What if I don’t have cream cheese for the icing?

If you don’t have cream cheese, you can make a simple glaze with powdered sugar, milk, and a bit of vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and drizzle over the warm rolls.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the filling?

Absolutely! You can customize your cinnamon rolls by adding chopped nuts, such as pecans walnuts, or raisins to the filling mixture for extra texture and flavor.