If you’re craving freshly baked cinnamon rolls but don’t have the time or energy to make dough from scratch, Rhodes Cinnamon Rolls are your best friend. These pre-made frozen rolls offer the perfect balance of convenience and homemade taste. Whether you’re serving a family breakfast, planning a brunch, or hosting a holiday gathering, this shortcut recipe delivers all the ooey-gooey cinnamon goodness with minimal effort.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
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Effortless Baking – Skip the mixing and kneading. These come pre-made and ready to rise.
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Delicious and Soft – You still get that soft, fluffy texture and rich cinnamon flavor.
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Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve them for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or holidays.
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Easy to Customize – Add nuts, fruit, frosting variations, or other creative toppings.
Ingredients List
You only need a handful of ingredients to turn frozen rolls into bakery-style cinnamon rolls.
Basic Ingredients:
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1 package Rhodes Cinnamon Rolls (usually comes with 12 rolls + icing packet)
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Non-stick cooking spray or butter (for greasing the pan)
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Optional: Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel (for rising)
Optional Add-Ins:
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Chopped pecans or walnuts
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Raisins
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Extra cinnamon sugar
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Butter (for brushing)
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Heavy cream (for enhanced richness)
Timing & Servings
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Rising Time: 3–5 hours at room temp or overnight in fridge
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Bake Time: 20–25 minutes
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Total Time: 3.5 to 6 hours (including rising)
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Servings: 12 cinnamon rolls
Step-by-Step Instructions for Rhodes Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with non-stick spray or butter. Arrange the frozen cinnamon rolls in the pan, leaving a little space between each to allow for expansion.
Step 2: Let the Rolls Rise
Cover the rolls lightly with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel. Let them rise at room temperature for 3–5 hours, or until they’ve doubled in size and touch each other. For overnight prep, place the pan in the refrigerator and let the rolls rise slowly (8–12 hours).
Step 3: Add Optional Toppings (If Using)
Before baking, sprinkle chopped nuts or raisins over the rolls. You can also brush them with melted butter and sprinkle extra cinnamon sugar for added flavor.
Step 4: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the risen rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Frost the Rolls
Once out of the oven, let the rolls cool slightly for 5–10 minutes. Then drizzle the provided icing over the warm rolls and spread evenly with a spatula or spoon.
Optional Add-Ins & Upgrades
Heavy Cream Hack
Before baking, pour a few tablespoons of heavy cream over the rolls. This makes them extra soft and gooey.
Caramel Pecan Topping
Create a sticky bun twist by adding melted butter, brown sugar, and chopped pecans to the bottom of the baking pan before placing the rolls.
Cream Cheese Frosting
Upgrade the included icing by mixing it with cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a splash of milk.
Make-Ahead Tips
Overnight Method
Place frozen rolls in the greased pan, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let them sit at room temperature for 30–60 minutes before baking in the morning.
Freezing Baked Rolls
You can freeze baked (unfrosted) cinnamon rolls for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through and then frost.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover rolls covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating
Warm individual rolls in the microwave for 20–30 seconds. For a fresh-baked feel, reheat in the oven at 325°F for 10–12 minutes.
Serving Ideas
As Breakfast or Brunch
Serve with fresh fruit, eggs, or bacon for a full breakfast spread.
As Dessert
Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with caramel for a decadent dessert.
Holiday Favorite
Add festive touches like red and green sprinkles for Christmas or pastel icing for Easter brunch.
Flavor Variations
Maple Cinnamon Rolls
Add maple extract to the icing or drizzle with warm maple syrup.
Orange Glaze
Mix orange zest and juice with powdered sugar for a fresh citrus twist.
Apple Cinnamon
Add thinly sliced apples between the rolls before rising for a fruity version.
Tips for Success
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Watch the Rise Time – Avoid over-proofing the dough. They should double in size but not collapse.
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Check for Doneness – Rolls should be golden and not doughy in the center. Tap the top – it should spring back.
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Use a Glass or Metal Pan – Both work well. Just ensure it’s well-greased to prevent sticking.
Kid-Friendly Ideas
Let kids help add sprinkles or decorate with icing. You can also slice the baked rolls in half and make fun sandwich treats with cream cheese or Nutella in between.
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Roll)
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Calories: 280
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Fat: 9g
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Carbohydrates: 42g
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Sugar: 17g
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Protein: 4g
Note: Values vary based on frosting and add-ins.
FAQs
Can I make these in a muffin tin?
Yes! Place one roll in each greased muffin cup for individual portions.
What if my rolls didn’t rise enough?
Place the pan in a slightly warm oven (turned off) or near a warm spot in your kitchen. Give them more time—sometimes they just need patience.
Are Rhodes cinnamon rolls vegan?
No, they contain dairy ingredients. For a vegan version, try a plant-based dough or make your own cinnamon rolls from scratch.
Can I add cream cheese to the frosting?
Absolutely. Mix the icing with softened cream cheese and powdered sugar for a tangier, richer topping.
Conclusion
Rhodes Cinnamon Rolls are a fantastic shortcut to a homemade-style treat without the extra effort. With just a bit of planning and a few creative add-ins, you can make these frozen rolls taste like they came straight from a bakery. From busy weekday mornings to relaxed holiday brunches, they’re always a hit. Whether you stick with the classic version or add your own twist, this is one recipe you’ll come back to again and again.