Cinnamon Rolls with a Twist

If you love cinnamon rolls, you’re in for a treat! These Cinnamon Rolls with a Twist combine three delicious desserts: donuts, cheesecakes, and cookies. They are a delightful way to enjoy a classic favorite in new forms. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, this recipe will make any occasion special!

Why Make This Recipe

Why stick to regular cinnamon rolls when you can have a variety of treats in one recipe? Making these Cinnamon Rolls with a Twist is not only fun but also allows you to impress your family and friends. They are easy to prepare and are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. If you’re looking for a new family favorite, this recipe is definitely worth trying!

How to Make Cinnamon Rolls with a Twist

Get ready to mix, bake, and enjoy a delicious twist on traditional cinnamon rolls. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delightful treat that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

• Vegetable oil (3.5 to 4 cups)
• Canned cinnamon rolls (12.4 ounces, 8 count)
• Vanilla wafer crumbs (1 cup, about 30 wafers)
• Salted sweet cream butter (4 tablespoons, melted)
• Granulated sugar (2.5 tablespoons for crust, 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons for fillings)
• Ground cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon for crust, 2 tablespoons for filling, 1/2 teaspoon for cheesecake filling)
• Cream cheese (8 ounces for filling, 4 ounces for frosting)
• Sour cream (1/2 cup)
• Pure vanilla extract (1.5 teaspoons for filling, 1/2 teaspoon for frosting, 2 tablespoons for cookies, and optional for icing)
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon for filling, 1.5 cups for cookies)
• All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons for filling, 3 cups for cookies)
• Large eggs (2 for cookies, 2 for cheesecake)
• Almond extract (3/4 teaspoon for cookies, 1/2 teaspoon optional for icing)
• Unsalted butter (1 cup, room temperature, for cookies)
• Baking powder (1.5 teaspoons)
• Fine sea salt (1 teaspoon)
• Cinnamon (4 tablespoons for filling)
• Brown sugar (3/4 cup)
• Powdered sugar (2.5 cups, for icing)

Directions:

1. For Cinnamon Roll Donuts: Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer. Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters, then fry until they are golden brown. Drain them on paper towels.

2. For Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes: Preheat your oven to 325°F. Mix the crust ingredients together and press them into muffin tins. Bake for about 10-12 minutes. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, flour, cinnamon, sour cream, and eggs until smooth. Pour this mixture into the baked crusts and bake for another 20-25 minutes.

3. For Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Mix the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. In another bowl, beat the butter, cream cheese, and sugar until fluffy. Add the eggs and extracts, then gradually stir in the flour mixture. Roll the dough into balls, create a well in the center, fill it with cinnamon filling, and seal the balls. Bake for about 10-12 minutes.

4. For Frosting: Beat the cream cheese and butter together, then add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Frost your cooled cookies and cheesecakes.

How to Serve Cinnamon Rolls with a Twist

Serve these treats warm with frosting drizzled on top for extra sweetness. They are perfect for family gatherings, brunch with friends, or even as an afternoon snack. Don’t forget to enjoy them with a nice cup of coffee or tea!

How to Store Cinnamon Rolls with a Twist

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up before serving!

Tips to Make Cinnamon Rolls with a Twist

• Make sure your oil is at the right temperature before frying to get that perfect golden brown color.
• Feel free to add your favorite toppings or fillings to the cinnamon roll cookies for extra flavor.
• If you have leftover frosting, save it! It’s great on cakes or even as a dip for fruits.

Variation

Want to switch things up? You can use other types of filling like chocolate or fruit preserves. Just make sure the flavors complement the cinnamon!

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of canned?
Yes, homemade cinnamon rolls work just as well in this recipe!

2. How can I make these treats healthier?
You can substitute some ingredients, like using whole wheat flour or a sugar alternative, to make them a bit healthier.

3. Can I freeze these treats?
Absolutely! You can freeze the donuts and cookies for up to three months. Just thaw them before serving.