Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting You’ll Love

There is nothing quite like sinking your teeth into Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting. These fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth rolls layered with fragrant cinnamon and topped with a luscious, creamy plant-based cream cheese frosting deliver the ultimate sweet indulgence. Whether you’re treating yourself on a cozy morning or surprising guests with a delightful homemade pastry, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a bakery-worthy experience you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unmatched Softness: The dough is tender and pillowy, creating the perfect bite every time.
• Rich and Creamy Frosting: The plant-based cream cheese frosting adds the ideal balance of sweetness and tang.
• Simple Ingredients: Easy-to-find pantry staples that come together effortlessly for a delightful treat.
• Customizable Flavors: Adjust the cinnamon swirl or frosting to your liking with simple variations.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: A cozy breakfast, festive brunch, or an anytime indulgence to brighten your day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the amazing texture, rich flavor, and appealing look of these Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting. From fluffy dough to the sweet cinnamon filling and creamy frosting, every component is essential for that perfect bite.

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure and soft texture for the dough.
• Active Dry Yeast: Helps the dough rise into light, airy rolls.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough and feeds the yeast for an active rise.
• Plant-Based Milk: Keeps the dough moist and tender.
• Smoked Turkey Bacon: Optional savory addition that pairs surprisingly well with the sweet cinnamon.
• Vegetarian Butter (natural): Adds richness to the dough and filling.
• Brown Sugar: Combines with cinnamon for a deeply flavorful filling.
• Ground Cinnamon: The star spice that infuses warmth and sweetness.
• Plant-Based Cream Cheese (natural): Base for the irresistible frosting.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting effortlessly.
• Vanilla Extract (natural): Enhances the flavor depth of the frosting.
• Natural Gelling Agent: Ensures the frosting achieves a creamy and spreadable consistency.

Variations for Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Feel free to make this recipe your own by experimenting with different mix-ins, sweeteners, and toppings. These variations are easy and allow you to tailor the Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting to any flavor preference or dietary need.

• Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for a satisfying crunch.
• Chocolate Infusion: Sprinkle dairy-free chocolate chips along the cinnamon swirl for a melty surprise.
• Fruit Twist: Incorporate chopped dried fruits like raisins or dates into the filling for natural sweetness.
• Savory Touch: Mix in smoked turkey bacon bits for a sweet-and-savory combination.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a similar soft texture suitable for dietary needs.

How to Make Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Warm the plant-based milk until it’s lukewarm, then sprinkle the active dry yeast over it and let it bloom until frothy, about 5-7 minutes. Combine flour, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl. Once the yeast mixture is ready, add it along with melted vegetarian butter (natural) to the dry ingredients. Mix and knead the dough until smooth and elastic, then cover and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, around one hour.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Filling

Mix brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted vegetarian butter (natural) in a small bowl until well combined. This mixture will be spread generously over the rolled-out dough to create those rich cinnamon swirls.

Step 3: Roll and Shape the Rolls

Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough. If using, sprinkle smoked turkey bacon bits or your chosen variation before rolling up tightly along the long edge. Slice into uniform rolls and arrange them snugly in a greased baking dish. Let them rest for 20-30 minutes to rise again while you preheat the oven.

Step 4: Bake

Bake the rolls at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top and cooked through. The rolls should be soft and slightly springy to the touch, with a beautiful brown hue.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

Using a mixer, combine plant-based cream cheese (natural), vegetarian butter (natural), powdered sugar, vanilla extract (natural), and a pinch of natural gelling agent. Beat until smooth, creamy, and spreadable. Adjust the sweetness or thickness by adding a little more powdered sugar or cream cheese if needed.

Step 6: Frost the Rolls

Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven and still warm, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top so it melts slightly and seeps into the crevices for that delightful gooey finish.

Pro Tips for Making Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Perfect Yeast Activation: Always check the temperature of your plant-based milk; too hot can kill the yeast, too cold won’t activate it properly.
• Knead with Care: Kneading develops gluten which gives the rolls their stretchy, fluffy texture, so don’t rush this step.
• Allow Proper Rising: Patience yields fluffiness; give your dough enough time to rise fully in both stages.
• Don’t Overbake: Cinnamon rolls should be soft, so pull them out as soon as the tops are golden and the middle feels springy.
• Frost While Warm: Applying frosting to warm rolls helps it melt perfectly into every nook and cranny.

How to Serve Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of crushed toasted nuts or a drizzle of pure maple syrup on top for an extra layer of flavor and texture that elevates presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair these rolls with fresh fruit salad or a hot cup of spiced chai tea for a balanced, delightful breakfast or snack.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange individual rolls on a wooden board around a small bowl of extra cream cheese frosting for guests to dip or spread as they like, creating an interactive and shareable experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled cinnamon rolls in an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their softness and flavor.

Freezing

Wrap rolls tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Warm frozen or refrigerated cinnamon rolls in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave in short bursts for a few seconds until soft and heated through.

FAQs

Can I make these cinnamon rolls vegan?

Yes! Using plant-based milk, vegetarian butter (natural), and plant-based cream cheese (natural) keeps this recipe 100% vegan without sacrificing flavor or texture.

What can I use instead of active dry yeast?

Instant yeast can be used as a substitute in the same quantity; just add it directly to the dry ingredients.

How do I prevent cinnamon rolls from becoming dry?

Ensuring the dough is well-hydrated, not overbaking, and applying cream cheese frosting while the rolls are warm helps keep them moist and tender.

Can I prepare the dough the night before?

Absolutely! After the initial rise, refrigerate the dough overnight covered tightly; roll and bake in the morning for fresh cinnamon rolls.

Can I skip the frosting?

Yes, though the plant-based cream cheese frosting adds a luscious finish that complements the rolls beautifully; alternatively, a light dusting of powdered sugar works too.

Final Thoughts

Making Soft Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting is truly a joy, bringing warmth and sweetness to your kitchen. This recipe’s simplicity paired with its irresistibly soft texture and creamy topping creates a treat that feels both special and comforting. Give it a try and discover how this scrumptious classic can brighten any day with a little homemade magic.

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