These warm cinnamon rolls are a sweet treat you’ll love! They’re soft and gooey, filled with rich cinnamon sugar, and topped with cream cheese icing.
Making them is fun! I like to smash the dough down, causing everyone to giggle. It’s a tasty activity that ends with delicious rolls fresh from the oven!
They’re perfect for breakfast or a snack. I love enjoying them with a cup of coffee, making the morning extra sweet and cozy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This is the base for the dough. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use whole wheat flour, but it might change the texture a bit, making it denser.
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness, but you could substitute it with coconut sugar for a more natural alternative. Just keep in mind it may adjust the flavor slightly.
Milk: I always use whole milk for richness, but any type will work! Almond or oat milk can be great non-dairy substitutes, giving it a slightly different taste.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is essential here. If you’re a fan of spice, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a different flavor twist.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for control over salt levels. If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based butter instead, which works well in most recipes!
How Do I Get Soft, Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls?
The secret to soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls lies in how you handle the dough. Here are some key tips:
- Be gentle when kneading—overworking the dough can make it tough. Just a minute or so is enough.
- Roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thick to ensure the rolls cook evenly and rise nicely.
- Use room temperature butter for spreading; it helps create a nice filling and binds the sugar and cinnamon effectively.
- Don’t skip the resting step after rolling—letting the dough relax a bit will make it easier to shape.
Using a Blackstone griddle helps get that nice golden brown on the outside while keeping the inside soft, so watch closely for that perfect color!
How to Make Smashed Blackstone Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 25 minutes to enjoy your fresh cinnamon rolls hot off the griddle!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together until everything is mixed well. Now add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir it all until a dough starts to form. Don’t worry if it looks a bit sticky—that’s perfect!
2. Knead and Roll the Dough:
Sprinkle some flour on your countertop, then turn the dough out onto this floured surface. Gently knead it for about a minute until it’s smooth. Next, roll it out into a rectangle that’s about 1/4 inch thick. This will be your canvas for those yummy toppings!
3. Add the Filling:
Spread the softened butter over the top of your rolled dough. Sprinkle the brown sugar and ground cinnamon evenly all over the surface. This is where the magic happens—you’re creating a sweet filling that will make your rolls so delicious!
4. Shape the Rolls:
Starting from one long side of the rectangle, roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Make sure to pinch the seam at the end to seal it all in. Now, use a sharp knife to cut the log into 1-inch pieces, which will become your individual cinnamon rolls!
5. Cook the Rolls on the Griddle:
Preheat your Blackstone griddle over medium heat and lightly grease the surface with a bit of butter or non-stick spray. Place the cinnamon rolls onto the griddle with some space in between each. Using a spatula, gently flatten each roll a little bit. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Then, flip them and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Make the Glaze:
While your rolls are cooking, let’s whip up the glaze! In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until it’s nice and smooth. This glaze is going to add the perfect sweet touch to your rolls!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Once your cinnamon rolls are cooked and golden, take them off the griddle. Drizzle the warm glaze over each roll while they’re still warm, allowing it to soak in a bit. Serve them up immediately and enjoy your scrumptious Smashed Blackstone Cinnamon Rolls with a smile!
Can I Substitute Whole Wheat Flour for All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but remember that the texture might be denser. For better results, try using half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose flour. This will keep your cinnamon rolls light while still adding some whole grain benefits!
What Can I Use Instead of Milk in the Recipe?
If you need a dairy-free option, almond milk or oat milk work well as substitutes. You can also use water, but the rolls might miss some richness; consider adding a tablespoon of oil or melted butter to maintain moisture.
Can I Make These Cinnamon Rolls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling, roll them up, and slice them into individual pieces. Place them in an airtight container in the fridge overnight. When you’re ready to cook, just let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking on the griddle.
How Should I Store Leftover Cinnamon Rolls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving!
