Make copycat Cinnabons out of your Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls Easy
Make copycat Cinnabons out of your Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls EASY!! is a easy American recipe that serves 8. 600 calories per serving. Recipe by Cooking With Dave on YouTube.
Prep: 38 min | Cook: 25 min | Total: 1 hr 13 min
Cost: $9.40 total, $1.18 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 package Pillsbury Cinnamon Roll Dough (8 rolls, keep refrigerated until ready)
- 6 teaspoons Unsalted Butter (Melted for glaze and for greasing the baking sheet)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (For the initial glaze mixture; extra a few tbsp may be added to thin glaze)
- 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract (Pure vanilla for flavor)
- 0.5 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt (Enhances sweetness; Morton fine sea salt used in video)
- 0.75 cup Dark Brown Sugar (Packed; gives deeper caramel flavor to glaze)
- 2.5 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon (Adds warmth to glaze)
- 0.25 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (Adds subtle depth; optional but recommended)
- 8 oz Cream Cheese (Full block, softened to room temperature)
- 1 packet Cinnamon Roll Frosting Packet (The pre‑packaged frosting that comes with the rolls)
- 1 cup Powdered Sugar (For the frosting)
- 2 tablespoons Maple Syrup (Adds flavor and sweetness to frosting)
- 0.5 teaspoon Almond Extract (Provides a bright nutty note in frosting)
- 2 tablespoons Milk (Helps thin frosting if needed)
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it preheat while you prepare the rolls.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 350°F
Butter the Baking Sheet
Generously butter the surface of a standard baking sheet using the 6 teaspoons of unsalted butter.
Time: PT2M
Arrange the Cinnamon Rolls
Place the 8 Pillsbury cinnamon rolls on the buttered sheet, leaving about 1‑2 inches between each so they have room to expand.
Time: PT2M
Make the Cream‑Glaze Base
In a mixing bowl combine 1 cup heavy cream, 1 tbsp vanilla extract, and ½ tsp fine sea salt. Stir until fully blended.
Time: PT3M
Pour Cream‑Glaze Over Rolls
Evenly pour the cream‑glaze mixture over and around the arranged rolls, ensuring each roll gets some liquid.
Time: PT2M
Prepare the Sweet Butter Glaze
Melt the remaining 6 teaspoons of butter in the microwave (about 20‑30 seconds). In a bowl combine the melted butter, ¾ cup packed dark brown sugar, 2½ tsp ground cinnamon, and ¼ tsp ground nutmeg. Stir until a thick paste forms.
Time: PT4M
Adjust Glaze Consistency
If the butter‑sugar glaze is too thick to drizzle, add a splash (1‑2 tbsp) of heavy cream and stir until you reach a pourable consistency.
Time: PT1M
Drizzle Sweet Glaze
Using a spoon or small ladle, drizzle the sweet butter glaze over the rolls, covering the tops and letting some run down the sides.
Time: PT1M
Cover with Foil
Tightly cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil to trap steam.
Time: PT1M
Bake the Rolls
Place the foil‑covered sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through. For a crispier top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes.
Time: PT25M
Temperature: 350°F
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the rolls bake, soften the 8‑oz cream cheese. In a bowl combine the softened cream cheese, the included frosting packet, 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tbsp maple syrup, ½ tsp almond extract, and 2 tbsp milk. Microwave for 10 seconds, then whisk until smooth and creamy.
Time: PT8M
Cool Slightly
Remove the rolls from the oven and let them rest on the sheet for about 5 minutes. This allows the glaze to set slightly but keeps the rolls warm for frosting.
Time: PT5M
Frost the Warm Rolls
Generously spread the cream cheese frosting over each warm roll, using a spatula or knife. The frosting will melt slightly, creating a glossy finish.
Time: PT2M
Serve
Transfer the frosted rolls to a serving plate and enjoy while still warm.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 600
- Protein
- 6 g
- Carbohydrates
- 80 g
- Fat
- 30 g
- Fiber
- 2 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian
Allergens: Dairy, Gluten
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Pillsbury Cinnamon Roll Dough: Other refrigerated cinnamon roll dough, Frozen puff pastry with cinnamon sugar filling
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Margarine, Coconut oil (will add flavor)
- Instead of Heavy Cream: Half‑and‑half (thinner glaze), Whole milk (will be less rich)
- Instead of Vanilla Extract: Almond extract (different flavor), Maple extract
- Instead of Fine Sea Salt: Kosher salt, Regular table salt
- Instead of Dark Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar, Turbinado sugar (will be less moist)
- Instead of Ground Cinnamon: Cinnamon powder blend, Ground nutmeg (different spice)
- Instead of Ground Nutmeg: Mace (similar flavor), Allspice (different profile)
- Instead of Cream Cheese: Neufchatel cheese (lower fat), Greek yogurt (different texture)
- Instead of Cinnamon Roll Frosting Packet: Store‑bought powdered frosting, Homemade cream cheese frosting
- Instead of Powdered Sugar: Confectioners’ sugar, Granulated sugar blended in blender
- Instead of Maple Syrup: Honey, Corn syrup
- Instead of Almond Extract: Vanilla extract (different flavor), Amaretto liqueur (alcoholic)
- Instead of Milk: Heavy cream (thicker), Plant‑based milk
Equipment Needed
- Baking Sheet
- Aluminum Foil
- Mixing Bowl
- Microwave‑Safe Bowl
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Spatula or Spoon
- Oven
- Oven Mitts
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Butter the baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Space the cinnamon rolls properly on the sheet.
- Pour the heavy‑cream glaze evenly so each roll gets moisture.
- Cover with foil and bake for the full 25 minutes.
- Prepare a smooth cream cheese frosting before the rolls finish baking.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Using dark brown sugar adds a richer caramel flavor compared with light brown sugar.
- Let the rolls rest for a few minutes after baking; this lets the glaze settle and prevents the frosting from sliding off.
- For an extra crunch, sprinkle a pinch of coarse sugar on top before the final 5 minutes of baking.
Troubleshooting
Glaze is too thick and won’t drizzle.
Add additional heavy cream a teaspoon at a time, stirring until the desired pourable consistency is reached.
Rolls are flat and not puffed.
Make sure the oven is fully preheated to 350°F and keep the foil on for the full baking time to trap steam.
Frosting is grainy or lumpy.
Microwave the mixture for an extra 5‑10 seconds, then whisk vigorously; add a splash more milk if needed.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Freezer: Wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.
Room temperature: Not recommended; rolls will dry out after 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the heavy‑cream glaze and the sweet butter glaze up to step 7 and refrigerate; bring to room temperature before use.
- The cream cheese frosting can be made fully ahead and kept refrigerated for up to 2 days; stir before spreading.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of cinnamon rolls in American breakfast cuisine?
Cinnamon rolls originated from Swedish kanelbullar, brought to the United States by Scandinavian immigrants. Over time they became a beloved sweet breakfast treat across America, especially popular in diners and coffee shops.
What are the traditional regional variations of cinnamon rolls in the United States?
In the Midwest, cinnamon rolls are often topped with a simple glaze, while in the South they may feature a cream cheese frosting. Some regions add nuts, raisins, or even maple syrup for a local twist.
How is the authentic traditional way to serve cinnamon rolls in American diners?
Traditionally, cinnamon rolls are served warm, either glazed or with a cream cheese frosting, alongside a cup of coffee or hot tea. They are usually presented on a plate with a small pat of butter on the side.
What occasions or celebrations are cinnamon rolls traditionally associated with in American culture?
Cinnamon rolls are a popular treat for weekend brunches, holiday breakfasts, and special occasions like birthdays or family gatherings. They are also a comforting comfort‑food for cozy winter mornings.
What makes these ultra easy creamy cinnamon rolls special compared to other American breakfast pastries?
These rolls use store‑bought dough but are elevated with a rich heavy‑cream glaze and a homemade cream cheese frosting, delivering a bakery‑level texture and flavor in a fraction of the time.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making ultra easy creamy cinnamon rolls from Cooking With Dave?
Common mistakes include overcrowding the rolls on the sheet, skipping the foil cover (which reduces steam), and not letting the frosting soften enough before mixing. Each of these can lead to flat rolls or a lumpy frosting.
Why does this recipe use heavy cream in the glaze instead of just butter and sugar?
Heavy cream adds richness and helps the glaze stay moist and glossy as it bakes, creating a softer, more decadent interior than a butter‑only glaze would provide.
Can I make the glaze and frosting ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes. Store the glaze in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; bring to room temperature and stir before using. The cream cheese frosting can also be refrigerated for 2 days and gently re‑whisk before spreading.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the rolls are done baking?
The rolls should be golden brown on top, puffed up, and the glaze should be glossy. When you tap the side, they should feel firm but still soft inside.
What does the YouTube channel Cooking With Dave specialize in?
The YouTube channel Cooking With Dave focuses on approachable, quick‑turnaround home cooking videos that often incorporate trending recipes, kitchen hacks, and a light‑hearted, personable style.
How does the YouTube channel Cooking With Dave's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
Cooking With Dave emphasizes using readily available store‑bought components (like Pillsbury dough) and elevating them with simple, high‑impact additions such as heavy cream and homemade frosting, whereas many other channels focus on making everything from scratch.
Last updated: August 28, 2026
