I absolutely love how this Big Texas Cinnamon Roll recipe combines soft, fluffy dough, gooey cinnamon filling, and a sweet glaze into one oversized, shareable treat. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion, this giant cinnamon roll always steals the show.
This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, yet it delivers bakery-quality results. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a cinnamon roll that’s indulgent, impressive, and perfect for sharing. Let’s dive into the process and create this delicious treat step by step!
Prep Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 8
Ingredients for Big Texas Cinnamon Roll
Dough Ingredients
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the soft and fluffy base of the roll.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough.
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (or 1 packet) – Essential for helping the dough rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the flavors perfectly.
- 3/4 cup warm milk (around 110°F) – Activates the yeast and keeps the dough tender.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted – Provides richness and softness.
- 1 large egg, at room temperature – Binds the dough and adds structure.
Cinnamon Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Creates a smooth, spreadable filling.
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed – Delivers a caramelized sweetness in every bite.
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon – Infuses warm, spicy flavor into the filling.
Sweet Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar – The main ingredient for a sweet, silky drizzle.
- 2 tablespoons milk – Adjust to reach the desired glaze consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the glaze with a delicious aroma.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Big Texas Cinnamon Roll
Prepare the Dough
Begin by mixing the warm milk, granulated sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
Meanwhile, in another bowl, combine the flour and salt. Once the yeast is ready, add the melted butter and egg to the yeast mixture and stir well. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
Knead and Let It Rise
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, make the filling by combining softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Mix until smooth and set aside.
Roll and Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle, approximately 12×18 inches. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges. Starting from one long side, roll the dough into a tight log.
Create the Giant Cinnamon Roll
Cut the log into strips (about 2 inches wide) and coil them around each other on a greased or parchment-lined baking dish, forming a giant spiral. Cover with a towel and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
Bake the Roll
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon roll for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Glaze and Serve
Prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Once the roll has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze generously over the top. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful Big Texas Cinnamon Roll!
Pro Tips for Big Texas Cinnamon Roll
- Use Warm Milk for the Dough
Make sure the milk is around 110°F to properly activate the yeast. If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast; if it’s too cold, the dough won’t rise. - Don’t Skip the Second Rise
Allowing the dough to rise again after shaping ensures a light and fluffy texture. This extra step makes the difference between a dense roll and a soft, bakery-style cinnamon roll. - Spread the Filling Evenly
Ensure the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon mixture is spread all the way to the edges of the rolled-out dough. This guarantees every bite is packed with gooey cinnamon flavor. - Bake Until Golden, Not Overdone
Keep an eye on the roll while baking. Remove it when the top turns golden brown and the center is cooked through, around 25–30 minutes. Overbaking can result in a dry texture. - Glaze While Warm
Drizzle the glaze over the roll while it’s still slightly warm. This allows the glaze to melt slightly into the roll, creating an irresistibly gooey topping.
Serving Suggestions for Big Texas Cinnamon Roll Recipe
This Big Texas Cinnamon Roll recipe is a centerpiece all on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides and drinks can enhance your experience. Here are some ideas to try:
- Pair it with coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or chai tea perfectly balances the sweetness of the cinnamon roll. For a complete breakfast spread, consider adding these fluffy pancakes to the table.
- Add fresh fruit: Serve with a bowl of mixed berries or a side of sliced apples. The tartness of the fruit contrasts beautifully with the gooey, sweet layers of this Big Texas Cinnamon Roll recipe.
- Elevate it to dessert status: Top a warm slice of the cinnamon roll with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a complementary dessert, pair it with this indulgent pumpkin trifle recipe.
- Balance with savory sides: Add a savory touch to your plate with scrambled eggs or a breakfast casserole like this drive casserole recipe.
- Serve it at gatherings: Slice the roll into smaller portions and arrange them on a platter. This makes the Big Texas Cinnamon Roll recipe a crowd-pleasing centerpiece at any brunch or dessert table.
These serving ideas will make your Big Texas Cinnamon Roll recipe the star of any meal, from breakfast to dessert.
Variants of Big Texas Cinnamon Roll Recipe
One of the best things about the Big Texas Cinnamon Roll recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are some fun and delicious variations to try:
1. Cream Cheese Glaze Cinnamon Roll
Swap the vanilla glaze for a rich cream cheese frosting. Combine 4 ounces of cream cheese, 1/4 cup softened butter, 1 cup powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for a tangy, sweet topping.
2. Chocolate Cinnamon Roll
Add a layer of mini chocolate chips to the cinnamon filling before rolling the dough. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the finished roll instead of the traditional glaze.
3. Apple Cinnamon Roll
Dice a fresh apple and sauté it with a bit of butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Spread this mixture over the dough before rolling for a fruity, caramelized twist.
4. Pecan Sticky Cinnamon Roll
Turn the roll into a sticky bun by adding chopped pecans and a caramel topping. Pour the caramel and pecans into the baking dish before placing the rolled dough on top. After baking, invert the roll to reveal the gooey, nutty topping.
5. Savory Cinnamon Roll
For a completely different take, skip the sugar and make a savory roll. Use garlic butter, shredded cheese, and fresh herbs for a cheesy, herby delight.
6. Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Roll
Add 1/4 cup pumpkin puree to the dough and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice to the filling. This fall-inspired twist pairs beautifully with a cream cheese glaze.
7. Mini Texas Cinnamon Rolls
Instead of making one large roll, divide the dough into smaller portions and roll each individually. Perfect for single servings or grab-and-go treats!
Why You’ll Love This Big Texas Cinnamon Roll Recipe
This Big Texas Cinnamon Roll recipe is sure to become a favorite, and here’s why:
- Impressive Size and Presentation: With its oversized shape, this cinnamon roll makes a stunning centerpiece for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. It’s perfect for sharing and guaranteed to impress your guests.
- Bakery-Quality Taste at Home: The fluffy dough, gooey cinnamon filling, and sweet glaze deliver the indulgent flavors you’d expect from a bakery—all made in your own kitchen.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Made with pantry staples like flour, sugar, butter, and cinnamon, this recipe proves that you don’t need fancy ingredients to create something amazing.
- Customizable for Any Occasion: Whether you prefer a classic glaze, a cream cheese frosting, or a nutty topping, this recipe is easy to adapt to your personal taste.
- Perfect for Special Moments: From holiday mornings to birthday celebrations, this cinnamon roll adds a touch of sweetness to any special occasion.
Once you try this Big Texas Cinnamon Roll recipe, it’ll become your go-to treat for making any day feel extra special.
FAQs About Big Texas Cinnamon Roll Recipe
1. What are the ingredients in Big Texas cinnamon rolls?
The Big Texas Cinnamon Roll recipe includes simple ingredients: all-purpose flour, sugar, yeast, milk, butter, and an egg for the dough; brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon for the filling; and powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for the glaze. These pantry staples come together to create the perfect oversized cinnamon roll.
2. What is the secret ingredient in Cinnabon?
Cinnabon’s signature flavor comes from their exclusive use of Makara cinnamon, a type of Korintje cinnamon known for its rich and robust flavor. To replicate that taste at home, use high-quality cinnamon in your filling for a bold, aromatic result.
3. Why put heavy cream on cinnamon rolls before baking?
Pouring heavy cream over cinnamon rolls before baking adds extra moisture and richness, resulting in a softer, gooier roll. The cream seeps into the dough as it bakes, enhancing the flavor and texture, especially for oversized rolls like the Big Texas Cinnamon Roll recipe.
4. Is Big Texas cinnamon roll healthy?
While this recipe is a delicious treat, it’s not particularly low in calories or sugar. The Big Texas Cinnamon Roll is best enjoyed as an occasional indulgence, balanced with healthier meals. To lighten it up, you can reduce the amount of glaze or use a whole wheat flour blend for the dough.
Conclusion: Indulge in the Big Texas Cinnamon Roll Recipe
In conclusion, this Big Texas Cinnamon Roll recipe is the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves the combination of soft, fluffy dough, gooey cinnamon filling, and a sweet glaze. It’s a crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, making any occasion feel extra special.
Moreover, the simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps mean you don’t need to be a professional baker to create bakery-quality results. With the option to customize toppings and fillings, you can make this recipe your own, whether it’s for a holiday celebration or a cozy weekend treat.
Finally, this giant cinnamon roll is more than just a dessert—it’s a centerpiece, a conversation starter, and a delicious way to bring people together. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a recipe worth coming back to time and time again.
