Cicis Cinnamon Roll Recipe: Sweet Homemade Copycat

Cinnamon rolls have always been one of those classic desserts that bring a sense of comfort and nostalgia. Their sweet, spiced aroma often brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy weekend mornings.

When it comes to recreating such a beloved treat, it’s no surprise that many people search for the perfect recipe that could rival their favorite bakery—or in this case, the well-known buffet restaurant chain, Cici’s Pizza.

I’ve been a fan of their signature cinnamon rolls for as long as I can remember, and the thought of making them at home is both exciting and a little daunting.

Crafting cinnamon rolls from scratch might seem like an elaborate task, but the process is quite rewarding. The key is to have a detailed preparation guide, a comprehensive ingredients list, and some patience to let the yeast do its magic.

Once you have the dough rolled out, a buttery cinnamon spread transforms the basic bread into a dessert fit for any table. These cinnamon rolls can be the star of a brunch, a sweet companion to your coffee or tea, or even a delightful base for ice cream. Sharing these homemade rolls with family and friends is sure to win you some admiration and maybe even a few requests for the recipe.

Key Takeaways

• A tried-and-true cinnamon roll recipe captures the essence of homely desserts.
• Baking cinnamon rolls at home invites an opportunity to share with loved ones.
• Mastering the right frosting and flavoring elevates the rolls to bakery-quality.

Ingredients List

When I make Cici’s inspired cinnamon rolls at home, I like to gather all my ingredients beforehand so that the whole baking process flows smoothly. Here’s what you’ll need for the dough, the cinnamon filling, and the luxurious cream cheese frosting.

For the dough:

• 3 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup of warm milk to activate the yeast
• 2¼ tsp of active dry yeast
• ¼ cup of granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp of unsalted butter, melted
• A pinch of salt

For the cinnamon filling:

• ¾ cup of brown sugar
• 2 tbsp of ground cinnamon for that unmistakable cinnamon flavor
• ¼ cup of unsalted butter, softened to spread easily

For the frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup of unsalted butter, softened
• 1½ cups of powdered sugar
• 1 tsp of vanilla extract

Optional additions:

• ½ cup of raisins or walnuts for the filling if you like some extra texture and nuttiness
• Fresh fruit to serve on the side

Measure your ingredients carefully, and make sure your milk is warm to the touch—not too hot, as that might kill the yeast. By sticking to this list, you’ll be set to create fluffy, soft cinnamon rolls that might just rival Cici’s famous treats!

Preparation Guide

Creating the perfect Cici’s Cinnamon Roll is all about following the simple steps of dough preparation and shaping before we get to the exciting part of baking. Remember to check that you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment on hand to ensure a smooth experience.

Dough Making

To start, I make sure my large mixing bowl is ready for the mixture of dry yeast, salt, and sugar—essential for a sweet roll dough. I use warm water to activate the yeast, which is the secret to achieving that soft, fluffy dough we all adore.

After combining all the dry ingredients, I gradually add in the melted butter and milk, kneading as I go. This kneading process is crucial, as it develops the gluten that gives the rolls their signature texture.

Usually, my prep time includes about 10 to 15 minutes of kneading, followed by a resting period that can vary but generally takes around an hour, or until the dough has doubled in size, making up the total time.

Shaping and Baking

Once my dough is properly risen, I take it to a floured surface and use a rolling pin to roll it out into a 12-inch square, which is about a ¼ inch thick. I spread a generous layer of cinnamon-sugar mixture or cinnamon butter across the dough, ensuring to leave a small margin around the edges to prevent spillage.

Carefully, I roll the dough into a log shape, starting from the long edge for a tighter roll. Using a sharp knife, I slice the log into individual rolls, usually aiming for around 20 pieces.

The rolls then go into a greased baking pan and have one more chance to rise briefly to enhance their fluffiness.

It’s at this point that I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C). After the final rising, it’s time for baking.

The rolls usually require about 20 to 25 minutes in the oven, or until they’re a golden brown. While they’re baking, I prepare a glaze or frosting to spread on the warm rolls when they come out of the oven.

The total cook time will include both the additional risings and the baking, often totaling somewhere between 1 ½ to 2 hours, though timings can vary.

Frosting and Flavoring

When I whip up a batch of Cici’s cinnamon rolls, I pay special attention to the frosting—it’s the crowning glory that adds a sweet touch to each fluffy swirl.

Cream cheese frosting is my go-to choice for its rich, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the warm spice of cinnamon. Here’s a simple recipe I love:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

I beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth, then gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until I achieve a creamy and spreadable consistency.

Sometimes, I opt for a lighter sweet glaze when I’m in the mood for something less rich. This glaze is a cinch to make:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tbsp milk or heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

I whisk these ingredients together, adding milk gradually, until the glaze is silky and drizzles easily off my spoon.

For an autumn twist, I sometimes replace the vanilla with maple syrup, giving my frosting a delightful seasonal flavor.

And if I’m feeling particularly indulgent, I’ll fold in a handful of chocolate chips into the frosting just as it finishes, creating little pockets of chocolatey goodness throughout.

No matter which frosting I choose, the key is to generously slather it over the warm rolls right out of the oven—the heat helps the icing melt into every cinnamon-laden nook and cranny. It’s my favorite part of baking these treats, as I watch the frosting seep into the rolls creating an irresistible, gooey center.

Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve gathered some of the common questions folks have about creating the delicious Cici’s cinnamon rolls. I’m hoping my answers will guide you in making your batch of these sweet, gooey treats just right.

What is the classic filling used in cinnamon rolls?

The filling I often use consists of brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter. This combination gives cinnamon rolls their signature sweet, spiced flavor. Spread evenly over the dough, it creates that delightful spiral pattern and a moist texture.

How can I make an easy version of Cici’s cinnamon rolls at home?

An easy version can be made by preparing a simple yeast dough, then filling it with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. After that, roll up the dough, cut it into slices, and bake until golden brown. For more details, you can check the recipe and baking instructions on Baked Ideas.

What are some tips for making the best cinnamon rolls similar to Cici’s?

My advice for making the best cinnamon rolls is to let the dough rise until it’s double in size, which makes them fluffy. Also, make sure the filling is spread uniformly, and don’t overbake them — keep an eye out for that perfect golden-brown crust.

Are there any unique variations of cinnamon rolls available at Cici’s?

Yes, Cici’s Pizza offers a range of unique cinnamon roll variations, including those topped with additional icing or even filled with chocolate chips or other sweet additions. These variations add a delightful twist to the classic cinnamon roll.

How many calories are there in a Cici’s cinnamon roll?

The calorie content can vary based on the size and ingredients, but a single Cici’s cinnamon roll typically contains several hundred calories. Moderation is key with these indulgent pastries.

What kind of oil is recommended for making cinnamon rolls like Cici’s?

In most cinnamon roll recipes, including those similar to Cici’s, vegetable oil or melted butter is used in the dough. Both contribute to the dough’s elasticity and flavor.

Butter, in particular, adds a rich taste.