Cinnamon Rolls with Heavy Cream and Cream Cheese Icing Recipe

If you’re looking to impress with a dessert that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Cinnamon Rolls with Heavy Cream and Cream Cheese Icing Recipe is exactly what you need. These cinnamon rolls transform from ordinary to extraordinary by soaking in luscious heavy cream and getting topped with a dreamy cream cheese icing that’s doubled down with powdered sugar for that perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a cozy morning treat, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for comfort and indulgence, with soft, gooey layers and rich flavors that dance on your taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cinnamon Rolls with Heavy Cream and Cream Cheese Icing Recipe is its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating texture, flavor, and that irresistible pull-apart softness that makes cinnamon rolls so addictive. Let’s break down what you’ll gather before diving into this delicious process.

• 2 5 oz cans cinnamon rolls (refrigerated grand): The convenient base that ensures fluffy, perfectly rolled cinnamon goodness every time.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Adds rich moisture so the rolls come out tender and irresistibly soft.
• 8 Tbsp butter (melted, divided): Butter brings a golden crust and deep, savory richness; divided use makes it versatile for topping and icing.
• ⅓ cup brown sugar: Brings a warm, caramel-like sweetness that melds beautifully with cinnamon.
• ½ tsp cinnamon: The quintessential spice that makes these rolls truly aromatic and comforting.
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened): Provides tang and creaminess that perfectly balances the sweet frosting.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Adds smooth sweetness and a luscious texture to the icing for that signature glaze.

How to Make Cinnamon Rolls with Heavy Cream and Cream Cheese Icing Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by warming your oven to 350 degrees. This is the perfect temperature to bake the cinnamon rolls evenly while allowing the heavy cream and sugar mixture to soak in gently and create that melt-in-your-mouth softness.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Lightly grease or butter a 9×13 baking dish. This simple step ensures the rolls don’t stick and also adds a hint of buttery flavor to the base as the rolls bake.

Step 3: Arrange the Cinnamon Rolls

Pop the 10 cinnamon rolls into your prepared dish, placing them gently side-by-side so they can puff up and bake into each other.

Step 4: Pour the Heavy Cream

Pour the full cup of heavy cream evenly over the rolls, making sure it seeps between each swirl. This is the secret that keeps them moist and indulgently soft.

Step 5: Make the Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Mixture

In a small bowl, melt 4 tablespoons of butter, then stir in the brown sugar and cinnamon until well combined. This fragrant, buttery mixture will caramelize over the rolls as they bake.

Step 6: Add the Brown Sugar Butter Mixture

Drizzle the brown sugar and butter blend over the cinnamon rolls, distributing it evenly so every bite has that sweet, spiced kiss.

Step 7: Cover and Bake

Cover the pan with foil to trap moisture and ensure the rolls stay soft while baking.

Step 8: Bake for 30 Minutes

Place the covered dish in your preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the rolls to rise, soak up cream, and caramelize in perfect harmony.

Step 9: Remove and Prepare for Icing

Take the rolls out and set them aside to cool slightly while you prepare the luscious cream cheese icing that will take these rolls over the top.

Step 10: Soften Butter and Cream Cheese

In a medium bowl, add the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter and the softened cream cheese.

Step 11: Microwave Softening

Microwave the butter and cream cheese for about 30 seconds, just enough to make them very soft and easy to blend smoothly.

Step 12: Whisk Together

Whisk the softened butter and cream cheese thoroughly until you get a smooth, creamy base for your icing.

Step 13: Add Pre-Packaged Icing

Next, stir in the two containers of icing that came with the cinnamon rolls for an extra layer of creaminess and sweetness.

Step 14: Mix in Powdered Sugar

Add the powdered sugar and whisk until fluffy and well combined, ensuring the perfect texture to spread over the warm rolls.

Step 15: Spread Icing Over Rolls

Generously spread the cream cheese icing all over the warm cinnamon rolls. The heat will slightly melt the icing, seeping into every nook for maximum flavor.

Step 16: Serve and Enjoy!

Now comes the best part. Grab a warm cinnamon roll, savor that rich cream cheese icing, and enjoy this incredible homemade treat with every bite!

How to Serve Cinnamon Rolls with Heavy Cream and Cream Cheese Icing Recipe

Garnishes

To add a little extra oomph to your cinnamon rolls, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top right after spreading the icing. Freshly grated nutmeg or a dusting of extra cinnamon can also heighten those warm spice notes beautifully.

Side Dishes

These cinnamon rolls are perfect alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or chai tea. For a more substantial brunch, pair them with scrambled eggs or fresh fruit salad to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your cinnamon rolls in mini cast iron skillets or bake them in individual ramekins to impress guests. You can also drizzle caramel or a berry compote on top of the cream cheese icing for a playful twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover cinnamon rolls (which might be rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The cream cheese icing can be stored separately in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.

Freezing

Wrap the cooled cinnamon rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

For a fresh-baked warmth, microwave individual rolls for 20-30 seconds or reheat in a 300-degree oven for 10 minutes, uncovered. Add a little extra drizzle of heavy cream or softened icing if needed to refresh that luscious texture.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls for this recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses canned cinnamon rolls for convenience, homemade rolls work beautifully too. Just adjust the baking time as needed since freshly made dough can behave differently.

Why is heavy cream used instead of milk?

Heavy cream adds richness and an indulgent moisture that milk just can’t match. It helps the rolls stay tender yet creamy, making this recipe stand out with its luxurious texture.

Can I make the cream cheese icing ahead of time?

Yes, the icing can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature and whisk before spreading it onto the rolls for that perfect consistency.

Is it possible to skip the brown sugar butter topping?

You can, but the brown sugar butter mixture adds a caramelized sweetness that complements the cinnamon rolls perfectly. Skipping it would make the rolls less rich and flavorful.

How do I know when the cinnamon rolls are fully baked?

Look for golden edges and a slight firmness on top while still being soft inside. The aroma of caramelized sugar and cinnamon will also signal that they are perfectly baked.

Final Thoughts

Making these Cinnamon Rolls with Heavy Cream and Cream Cheese Icing Recipe is a little act of love that brings incredible joy to any table. Once you taste the gooey, moist texture along with the rich tang of cream cheese icing, you’ll understand why this recipe is a keeper. So grab those simple ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to delight yourself and your loved ones with a homemade treat that feels truly special.

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