Frosting for Cinnamon Rolls - Cooking With Karli (2024)

This cinnamon Roll Icing is made in literally MILLIONS of kitchens every single year. Creamy and perfectly sweet, my cinnamon roll glaze is the perfect topper to any cinnamon roll.

This homemade Icing for Cinnamon Rolls is the best

This Cinnamon Roll Icing is not only a staple at my house but the same is true for kitchens WORLD WIDE! This icing recipe is quick, easy to follow and has zero cream cheese in sight. (if that is a deal breaker for you, try my Cream Cheese Frosting recipe on your cinnamon rolls!)

Use this with homemade cinnamon rolls, frozen cinnamon rolls or even the kind from the can that is pretty much an adult jack in the box- you know what I’m talking about. No matter the cinnamon roll, this frosting is sure to make them an irresistible treat.

This cinnamon roll icing is incredibly easy to make and super delicious, to boot. Before you know it, you’ll be making this on a weekly basis as a donut glaze, fruit dip, or to drizzle over apple crisp. I won’t judge, I’m already doing it myself.

Why you’ll love Cinnamon Roll Icing without cream cheese

Cinnamon roll icing without cream cheese offers a delightful alternative for those who prefer a lighter and smoother topping. Unlike traditional cream cheese-based icings, this version boasts a velvety texture and a balanced sweetness that perfectly complements the warm, cinnamon-spiced rolls. The absence of cream cheese allows other flavors like vanilla to shine through, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enhance the natural cinnamon and pastry taste.

Cinnamon Roll Icing Recipe Ingredients

• Butter– I always use salted butter because that is what I keep on hand. If you only have unsalted butter, add a pinch of salt to the icing.
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract– If you want your icing to stay bright white, use clear vanilla extract!
• Heavy whipping cream– I use heavy whipping cream because I LOVE the richness it brings to the icing, however you can sub for regular milk. You just won’t use nearly as much.

Exact measurements can be found in the printable recipe card below. This recipe is perfect for doubling or even tripling!

How to make Cinnamon Roll Icing

1. Cream the butter until smooth in a bowl using an electric hand mixer or a stand mixer. (I always use my stand mixer)
2. Add in 1 cup of powdered sugar and enough heavy cream to bring the powdered sugar and butter together.
3. Repeat adding 1 cup of powdered sugar and then some heavy cream, going back and forth until all of the powdered sugar has been added.
4. Add in the vanilla extract and then you can adjust the consistency of the icing by adding more heavy cream. I prefer mine pretty thick, but you can thin it as much as you’d like.
5. Generously pour the icing over fresh warm cinnamon rolls. I like to allow my cinnamon rolls to cool for 5 minutes or so before icing them, that way the icing stays on top and doesn’t just melt down the sides.

How to store Cinnamon Roll Frosting

You’ll want to store any leftover cinnamon roll frosting in an air tight container. You can store it on the counter for up to 2 days, in the fridge for up to 7 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Allow the frosting to come to room temperature and then whip it again before using the remaining frosting.

Should you refrigerate cinnamon rolls?

No, I don’t typically refrigerate my cinnamon rolls. They either go in my belly or into the freezer. They will stay fresh at room temp for about 24 hours.

Should iced cinnamon rolls be hot or cold?

When served, iced cinnamon rolls are typically best enjoyed while still warm. The contrast between the warm, soft cinnamon roll and the cool, sweet icing creates a delightful experience for your taste buds. The icing will slightly melt and drizzle over the rolls, enhancing the overall indulgence. However, you can also enjoy iced cinnamon rolls at room temperature if you prefer a more balanced eating experience.

How to use this Cinnamon Roll Frosting Recipe

• Cinnamon Roll Recipe
• Homemade Donuts
• Monkey Bread
• Apple Pull Apart Bread

Frosting for Cinnamon Rolls FAQs

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