There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of fresh cinnamon rolls. But making them from scratch can be time-consuming. That’s why we love using frozen bread dough to whip up these sweet, gooey treats with less effort and in less time.
This recipe lets us enjoy soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls without the usual wait. Using frozen dough means we skip the lengthy rising process but still get that perfect texture and flavor. Whether it’s for a weekend brunch or a cozy dessert, these cinnamon rolls hit the spot every time.
Ingredients
To create perfectly soft and fluffy Cinnamon Rolls From Frozen Bread Dough, we need simple ingredients that transform the dough into a delightful treat. Below are the essentials divided into two parts: the cinnamon roll filling and the luscious icing.
For the Cinnamon Rolls
- 1 package (about 1 lb) frozen bread dough, thawed according to package instructions
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon — the key to that warm, inviting flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for extra spice depth)
For the Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted for smoothness
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened for a creamy texture
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)
| Ingredient Group | Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Frozen Bread Dough | Frozen bread dough | 1 package (about 1 lb) |
| Cinnamon Filling | Unsalted butter | 1/3 cup, softened |
| Brown sugar | 1/2 cup, packed | |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 tablespoons | |
| Ground nutmeg (optional) | 1/4 teaspoon | |
| Icing | Powdered sugar | 1 cup, sifted |
| Cream cheese | 2 tablespoons, softened | |
| Unsalted butter | 1 tablespoon, softened | |
| Vanilla extract | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Milk | 2–3 tablespoons |
By gathering these ingredients, we ensure a seamless journey from frozen dough to freshly baked cinnamon rolls with an irresistibly rich icing finish.
Equipment Needed
To make these delicious Cinnamon Rolls From Frozen Bread Dough, having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and perfect results every time. Here is a list of essential tools we use for this recipe:
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the filling ingredients and preparing the icing.
- Rolling Pin: To evenly roll out the thawed frozen bread dough into a flat rectangle.
- Sharp Knife or Dough Cutter: For slicing the rolled dough into uniform cinnamon roll pieces.
- 9×13-Inch Baking Pan: Ideal for arranging the cinnamon rolls close together to rise and bake properly.
- Small Saucepan: Useful to melt butter for the cinnamon filling and to warm ingredients if needed for the icing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements of sugar, butter, spices, and liquids are crucial for balance and flavor.
- Wire Cooling Rack: For cooling the baked rolls slightly before applying the creamy icing.
- Spatula or Butter Knife: To spread butter and icing smoothly across the rolls.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowl | Combine filling and icing ingredients |
| Rolling Pin | Roll out thawed frozen bread dough evenly |
| Sharp Knife / Cutter | Slice rolled dough into evenly sized cinnamon rolls |
| 9×13-Inch Baking Pan | Bake rolls with proper spacing and rise |
| Small Saucepan | Melt butter and warm icing components |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Ensure precise ingredient amounts |
| Wire Cooling Rack | Cool rolls before icing |
| Spatula / Butter Knife | Spread butter and icing evenly |
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy our Cinnamon Rolls From Frozen Bread Dough with minimal morning effort, following these make-ahead steps will streamline the process:
Thawing Frozen Dough in Advance
- Transfer the frozen bread dough to the refrigerator.
- Allow it to thaw slowly overnight or for about 8 to 12 hours.
- This gradual thaw prevents overproofing and preserves the dough’s texture.
Prepping Cinnamon Rolls the Night Before
- After thawing, roll out the dough and add your cinnamon filling as detailed in the recipe.
- Slice the rolls and place them snugly in the greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel.
- Refrigerate overnight to let the rolls achieve the perfect second rise slowly in a cool environment.
Morning Baking and Icing
- Remove rolls from the fridge about 30 minutes prior to baking to take off the chill.
- Bake rolls fresh for the ultimate softness and fluffiness.
- While rolls bake, prepare the cream cheese icing without delay to spread while warm.
Storage and Reheating Tips
| Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerate Unbaked | Up to 24 hours | Warm rolls at room temperature for 20 minutes. |
| Refrigerate Baked | 3 to 4 days | Microwave individually for 20-30 seconds with a damp towel. |
| Freeze Unbaked Rolls | Up to 1 month | Thaw in refrigerator overnight before baking as usual. |
“By prepping the cinnamon rolls ahead, we save precious time without sacrificing the signature soft, sweet texture we crave.”
Implementing these make-ahead strategies allows us to serve fresh, warm cinnamon rolls with ease—perfect for a cozy weekend brunch or a special treat anytime.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to transform your frozen bread dough into soft, delicious cinnamon rolls with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Preparing the Frozen Bread Dough
- Remove the frozen bread dough from the freezer.
- Place the dough in the refrigerator to thaw overnight. This preserves texture and ensures even rising.
- About 1 hour before baking, take the dough out of the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature to become more pliable and easier to roll without tearing.
Tip: Dough should feel soft but not sticky.
Rolling and Filling the Dough
- Lightly flour a clean surface and your rolling pin.
- Roll the thawed dough into a rectangle approximately 16×12 inches and about ¼ inch thick. Aim for even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
- Melt unsalted butter (about ¼ cup) and brush it evenly over the dough.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar (½ cup), ground cinnamon (2 tablespoons), and optional nutmeg (½ teaspoon).
- Sprinkle this cinnamon sugar filling evenly over the buttered dough, covering edge to edge for maximum flavor.
Cutting and Arranging the Rolls
- Starting at the longer edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log.
- Use a sharp knife or dough cutter to slice the roll into 12 equal pieces. Each piece should be about 1½ inches thick.
- Arrange the slices cut side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Place them snugly but with space to expand.
- Cover the pan loosely with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
Proofing the Rolls
- Allow the rolls to proof (rise) in a warm, draft-free area for 45 to 60 minutes. They should nearly double in size.
- When proofed correctly, the rolls will look puffy and soft to the touch.
Tip: Avoid rushing proofing as it impacts fluffiness.
Baking the Cinnamon Rolls
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls in the center of the oven for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Look for golden-brown tops and a slightly caramelized filling.
- Remove the rolls from the oven and transfer the pan to a wire cooling rack. Let them cool for 10 minutes before icing.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Indicator |
|---|---|---|---|
| Proofing | Warm room | 45-60 minutes | Rolls puff and soften |
| Baking | 350°F | 25-30 minutes | Golden brown, caramelized |
Preparing the Icing
- In a mixing bowl, combine 4 ounces softened cream cheese and ¼ cup unsalted butter.
- Beat until smooth and creamy.
- Add 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons milk.
- Mix until the icing reaches a spreadable consistency. Add more milk to thin if needed.
Icing and Serving
- Spread the cream cheese icing generously over the warm cinnamon rolls using a spatula or butter knife.
- Allow the icing to melt slightly into the rolls for rich flavor and creamy texture.
- Serve warm for the best experience, indulging in the aroma and softness of these cinnamon rolls from frozen bread dough.
Storage and Reheating
To keep our cinnamon rolls from frozen bread dough tasting fresh and delicious, proper storage and reheating are essential. Here’s how we ensure maximum flavor and softness every time.
Storing Unbaked Cinnamon Rolls
If we prepare the rolls in advance but haven’t baked them yet, follow these steps to maintain their quality:
- Cover the rolls tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.
- Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to allow a slow second rise.
- For longer storage, wrap the unbaked rolls tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place them in the freezer for up to 1 month.
Storing Baked Cinnamon Rolls
Once baked, our cinnamon rolls need different storage treatment:
- Allow the rolls to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Place them in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
- Store them at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For extended freshness, refrigerate them for up to 1 week.
- To freeze, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating Cinnamon Rolls
To enjoy the warm, soft, and gooey texture of our cinnamon rolls from frozen bread dough, we recommend these reheating methods:
| Method | Instructions | Heating Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oven (recommended) | Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place rolls on a baking sheet. Cover with foil to keep moisture. | 10-15 minutes | Restores softness and crisp edges |
| Microwave | Place roll on microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel. | 20-30 seconds | Quick but can dry out if overheated |
| Toaster Oven | Place roll directly on rack or baking tray. Cover loosely with foil. | 8-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) | Balances convenience and texture |
Pro Tip for Reheating
For the best experience, warm the rolls just until heated through to avoid drying out. Adding a small pat of butter before reheating can boost softness and flavor dramatically.
Summary Table for Storage Timeframes
| Roll Type | Storage Location | Max Storage Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Unbaked | Refrigerator | 24 hours |
| Unbaked | Freezer | 1 month |
| Baked | Room Temperature | 2 days |
| Baked | Refrigerator | 1 week |
| Baked | Freezer | 3 months |
By following these storage and reheating tips we preserve the freshly baked taste of our cinnamon rolls and enjoy them at their finest whenever we want.
Conclusion
Using frozen bread dough to make cinnamon rolls is a game-changer for anyone who loves fresh-baked treats without the hassle. It saves time while still delivering that soft, fluffy texture and rich flavor we all crave. With just a few simple steps and the right ingredients, we can enjoy bakery-quality cinnamon rolls right at home.
This method fits perfectly into busy mornings or relaxed weekends, letting us savor the warmth and comfort of homemade rolls whenever we want. Plus, the flexibility in storage and reheating means we can always have a batch ready to go. It’s a delicious way to make life a little sweeter with minimal effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen bread dough to make cinnamon rolls?
Yes, frozen bread dough is perfect for making cinnamon rolls. It saves time by skipping the lengthy rising process, while still producing soft and fluffy rolls.
What ingredients do I need for the cinnamon roll filling?
You’ll need unsalted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and optional ground nutmeg to make the filling.
How do I make the cream cheese icing?
Combine powdered sugar, cream cheese, unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix until smooth for a rich and creamy icing.
What equipment is essential for making these cinnamon rolls?
Basic tools include a mixing bowl, rolling pin, sharp knife or dough cutter, 9×13-inch baking pan, small saucepan, measuring cups and spoons, wire cooling rack, and a spatula or butter knife.
Can I prepare the cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can thaw and roll the dough the night before, refrigerate the sliced rolls for a slow second rise, then bake fresh in the morning.
How should I store unbaked cinnamon rolls?
Unbaked rolls can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours or frozen for up to a month to maintain freshness.
What’s the best way to store baked cinnamon rolls?
Store baked rolls at room temperature for 2 days, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat cinnamon rolls without drying them out?
Reheat using an oven, microwave, or toaster oven. Cover loosely with foil for the oven to keep them soft and moist.
How long does it take to bake the cinnamon rolls?
Bake the rolls until they turn golden brown; this usually takes about 20-25 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Should I serve the cinnamon rolls warm or cold?
Serve cinnamon rolls warm to enjoy their soft texture and rich aroma along with the creamy icing.