We love nothing more than the warm, gooey bliss of homemade cinnamon rolls and we’re excited to share our twist on the classic using Pillsbury Hot Roll Mix. This convenient shortcut lets us whip up fluffy rolls packed with cinnamon spice and sweet glaze without hours of kneading.
It’s perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends when you crave that fresh-baked aroma. Join us as we transform this easy mix into a crowd-pleasing treat that’s sure to become your go-to recipe.
Ingredients
To craft our irresistible Pillsbury Hot Roll Mix Cinnamon Rolls, we start by assembling these key ingredients in the order we use them. This mix simplifies the process while delivering that homemade taste we love.
Dough Ingredients
- Pillsbury Hot Roll Mix: 1 package (13.5 ounces) – our convenient base that eliminates the need for extensive kneading
- Warm water: ¾ cup (around 110°F) – to activate the yeast in the mix for a soft, fluffy dough
Filling Ingredients
- Unsalted butter, softened: ¼ cup – melted slightly for easy spreading to create a rich, buttery layer
- Brown sugar: ½ cup (packed) – for a caramelized sweetness that pairs perfectly with cinnamon
- Ground cinnamon: 2 teaspoons – the star spice that infuses warm, aromatic flavors into every bite
Icing Ingredients
- Powdered sugar: 1 cup (sifted) – forms the smooth base for our creamy topping
- Milk: 2 tablespoons – added gradually to achieve the ideal drizzling consistency
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon – for a subtle, vanilla-kissed finish that enhances the rolls’ overall appeal
Tools and Equipment
To prepare our Pillsbury Hot Roll Mix Cinnamon Roll Recipe seamlessly, we need a few essential tools and equipment that make the process efficient and enjoyable. These items help us achieve that perfect soft, fluffy dough and beautifully swirled rolls without any hassle. Let’s break down what you’ll need, organized by category for clarity.
Basic Mixing Tools
- Mixing bowl: A large, sturdy bowl is crucial for combining the Pillsbury Hot Roll Mix with warm water and other ingredients; it allows us to mix the dough evenly and avoid spills.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to success, so we recommend a set of dry measuring cups for the mix and liquid measuring cup for water, plus spoons for precise additions like cinnamon or sugar.
Dough Preparation Essentials
- Rolling pin: This tool is vital for rolling out the dough into a smooth rectangle, ensuring the cinnamon filling spreads evenly for that irresistible, layered texture we love in homemade cinnamon rolls.
- Whisk or wooden spoon: We use a whisk for blending wet ingredients or a spoon for stirring the dough; it helps incorporate air and prevents lumps for a lighter result.
Baking and Finishing Gear
- Baking pan: Opt for a 9×13-inch baking dish or round cake pan to bake the rolls; it provides even heat distribution, resulting in golden-brown tops and a soft interior.
- Oven thermometer: If your oven runs hot or cool, this ensures the temperature is spot-on at 375°F, guaranteeing the rolls bake to perfection without over-browning.
- Sharp knife or bench scraper: Essential for cutting the rolled dough into uniform rolls; a clean cut helps maintain their shape during baking for consistent, professional-looking results.
By having these tools ready, we can transition smoothly from mixing our ingredients to baking delicious, aromatic cinnamon rolls that fill the kitchen with their warm, spicy scent.
Directions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients and essential tools, let’s guide you through crafting these irresistible cinnamon rolls using Pillsbury Hot Roll Mix. We’ll break down the process into simple, step-by-step instructions for foolproof results.
Prepare the Dough
To start, we’ll mix the Pillsbury Hot Roll Mix with warm water and butter to create a soft and fluffy dough base. Begin by combining 1 package (16 ounces) of Pillsbury Hot Roll Mix with 1 cup of warm water (around 120°F) in a large mixing bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter and stir vigorously with a spoon until a sticky dough forms—this should take about 1 minute. Next, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic, then cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for 20-30 minutes or until it doubles in size. You’ll notice the dough becoming light and airy, promising those tender rolls we all crave.
Make the Filling
Once the dough is ready, we’ll whip up a rich and aromatic filling that infuses every bite with warmth. In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon until it forms a smooth, spreadable paste—use a fork to blend thoroughly for about 1 minute. This combination creates a decadent layer that will melt into the dough during baking, releasing an irresistible scent of spicy cinnamon that fills your kitchen.
Assemble the Rolls
With the filling prepared, we’ll shape the rolls for that classic swirl effect, ensuring even portions for consistent baking. Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface into a 15×9-inch rectangle using a rolling pin. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges. Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log and pinch the seam to seal. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife—each roll should be about 1.5 inches thick—then place them cut-side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, spacing them evenly. This step transforms the dough into beautiful spirals, ready to bake into golden, gooey perfection.
Bake the Cinnamon Rolls
We’ll bake the rolls to achieve a crispy exterior and soft interior, capturing that homemade aroma everyone loves. Preheat your oven to 375°F and ensure it’s accurate with your oven thermometer. Bake the assembled rolls in the prepared pan for 20-25 minutes or until they’re lightly golden and the centers reach an internal temperature of 190°F—use a kitchen thermometer to check for doneness. As they bake, the kitchen will fill with the enticing scent of cinnamon and fresh bread, signaling a batch of treats that’s sure to impress.
Add the Frosting
Finally, we’ll top the warm rolls with a creamy and sweet frosting to enhance their flavor and presentation. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and drizzle-worthy—this takes about 30 seconds. Immediately pour or spread the frosting over the hot rolls, allowing it to melt slightly into the cracks for a glossy finish. Let the rolls cool for 5 minutes before serving to enjoy that perfect balance of warmth and sweetness.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Pillsbury Hot Roll Mix cinnamon rolls even more convenient for busy schedules, we can prepare them in advance without sacrificing that fresh-baked fluffy texture and irresistible aroma. This approach allows the dough to develop deeper flavors overnight, making your mornings easier and your rolls tastier. Below, we outline the key methods step by step, ensuring you maintain the soft, golden perfection of these homemade treats.
Preparing the Dough Ahead
Follow these steps to prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance:
- Mix and knead the dough as directed: Combine the Pillsbury Hot Roll Mix with warm water and butter, then knead until smooth. This sets the foundation for a tender, airy rise.
- Let it rise initially: Cover the dough and allow it to rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, typically 30–45 minutes. This step ensures the rolls will bake up light and flavorful.
- Refrigerate after rising: Gently punch down the dough to release air bubbles, shape it into a ball, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Chilling helps enhance the yeasty aroma and makes rolling easier.
Assembling Rolls in Advance
Once the dough is ready, you can assemble the full rolls ahead of time for a seamless bake later:
- Roll out and add filling: After removing the chilled dough from the refrigerator, roll it into a rectangle and spread the butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon mixture evenly. The cold dough will be easier to handle, reducing mess.
- Form and slice the rolls: Roll the dough into a log and slice it into equal pieces using a sharp knife. Place the slices in your baking pan, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. This step lets the flavors meld, promising a rich, buttery burst in every bite.
- Overnight option: For a next-day treat, assemble the rolls in the evening and let them rest in the fridge overnight. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Freezing for Longer Storage
If you want to extend the make-ahead process, freezing is a great option. Here’s how we recommend it:
- Freeze unbaked rolls: After slicing, arrange the rolls in the baking pan and cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Place the pan in the freezer for up to 1 month. Freezing at this stage preserves the fresh dough essence without over-proofing.
- Thaw and bake: When ready to enjoy, transfer the frozen rolls to the refrigerator overnight to thaw slowly. In the morning, let them rise at room temperature for about 1 hour until puffy, then bake as per the original instructions. You’ll still get that golden, caramelized exterior and soft interior.
| Make-Ahead Method | Storage Time | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerating dough only | Up to 24 hours | Enhances flavor and simplifies rolling |
| Assembling and refrigerating rolls | Up to 12 hours | Allows for easy morning baking with minimal prep |
| Freezing unbaked rolls | Up to 1 month | Maximizes convenience for future use |
By following these Make-Ahead Instructions, we ensure your Pillsbury Hot Roll Mix cinnamon rolls remain a go-to recipe for effortless, delicious results every time. Always check that the dough has fully risen before baking to achieve the perfect balance of warm, spicy sweetness.
Conclusion
We’ve truly enjoyed guiding you through this effortless Pillsbury Hot Roll Mix cinnamon roll adventure. It’s a reliable way to create warm, comforting treats that fit any schedule.
By trying it yourself, you’ll discover endless joy in homemade baking and make it your go-to for special moments. Let’s keep the kitchen buzzing with fresh flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pillsbury Hot Roll Mix and how does it simplify cinnamon rolls?
Pillsbury Hot Roll Mix is a pre-mixed dough base that makes baking easier by eliminating the need for extensive kneading and rising from scratch. It combines flour, yeast, and other essentials, allowing you to whip up soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls quickly. This mix is ideal for busy mornings or weekends, turning a traditional recipe into a convenient treat with just water and butter.
What ingredients are needed for this cinnamon rolls recipe?
You’ll need Pillsbury Hot Roll Mix, warm water, unsalted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. These create a soft dough, sweet filling, and creamy icing. Measure accurately for the best results, ensuring a delicious balance of flavors in under 30 minutes of prep.
What tools are required to prepare cinnamon rolls?
Essential tools include a mixing bowl for dough, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a rolling pin to shape the dough, a baking pan for even cooking, an oven thermometer for precise temperature, and a sharp knife for cutting rolls. These basics ensure seamless preparation and professional-looking results without advanced equipment.
How do I make cinnamon rolls using Pillsbury Hot Roll Mix?
Start by mixing the Hot Roll Mix with warm water and butter, knead until smooth, and let it rise. Roll out the dough, spread a butter-brown sugar-cinnamon filling, form a log, and slice into rolls. Bake until golden, then top with a powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla icing. The whole process takes about 1-2 hours, including rising time.
Can I prepare these cinnamon rolls in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 24 hours ahead by mixing, rising, and refrigerating it to enhance flavors. Assemble rolls in advance for easy baking later, or freeze unbaked rolls for longer storage. This method allows for fresh, warm cinnamon rolls with minimal morning effort, perfect for meal prep.
How do I store or freeze leftover cinnamon rolls?
Store baked rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week; reheat in the oven for freshness. For freezing, wrap unbaked rolls tightly and store for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. This keeps them soft and flavorful for later enjoyment.