Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Transform those humble canned cinnamon rolls into extraordinary treats that’ll make everyone think you’re a culinary genius. While they’re delicious straight from the can, these pre-made pastries can become the foundation for countless creative desserts and breakfast innovations.
From gooey monkey bread to decadent cinnamon roll waffles, the possibilities are endless when you start thinking outside the cardboard tube. These quick and easy recipes turn a simple convenience food into Instagram-worthy creations that’ll have family and friends begging for your secret. Best of all? Most of these recipes take less than 30 minutes to prepare, making them perfect for both lazy weekend brunches and last-minute dessert emergencies.
Recipes with Canned Cinnamon Rolls
Transforming canned cinnamon rolls into unique treats involves simple techniques that enhance their original flavor profile:
- Baking Variations
- Press rolls into a waffle iron for crispy cinnamon roll waffles
- Stack pieces in a bundt pan to create pull-apart monkey bread
- Flatten rolls into pizza shapes for dessert flatbreads
- Arrange in a cast iron skillet for deep dish cinnamon rolls
- Flavor Enhancements
- Add chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, almonds) between layers
- Incorporate fresh fruit (apples, berries, peaches) into the spirals
- Mix cream cheese with the provided icing for richer topping
- Sprinkle chocolate chips or toffee bits before baking
- Shape Modifications
- Cut rolls into quarters to create bite-sized pastry bites
- Unroll dough strips to create twisted breadsticks
- Shape into hearts by pinching one end of the roll
- Braid three strips together for decorative presentation
- Creative Combinations
- Layer between pancakes for breakfast stacks
- Use as crusts for individual cheesecakes
- Create sandwich cookies with cream cheese filling
- Form into cups for holding fruit or pudding
| Transformation Method | Prep Time | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Waffle Iron | 5 min | 3-4 min |
| Bundt Cake | 10 min | 25-30 min |
| Skillet Method | 5 min | 18-20 min |
| Dessert Pizza | 8 min | 12-15 min |
Each transformation creates distinct textures while maintaining the classic cinnamon roll flavors. These methods work with any brand of canned cinnamon rolls found in grocery stores.
Breakfast and Brunch Recipes
Transform canned cinnamon rolls into spectacular morning dishes with these creative breakfast recipes. Each option combines familiar breakfast elements with the sweet, gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls.
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake
This overnight breakfast casserole combines quartered cinnamon rolls with a rich custard mixture. The base consists of 2 cans of cinnamon rolls layered in a 9×13 baking dish, soaked in 4 beaten eggs, 1 cup heavy cream, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and ¼ cup maple syrup. Baking at 375°F for 25 minutes creates a golden brown top while maintaining a soft, custard-like center. Adding both included icing packets after baking creates an extra decadent finish. The dish serves 8-10 people and reheats well for leftovers.
Cinnamon Roll Waffles
Transforming canned cinnamon rolls into waffles creates a crispy exterior with a soft, gooey center. Each roll flattens to fill a standard waffle iron cavity in 3-4 minutes at medium-high heat. Cooking spray prevents sticking and ensures even browning. The included icing melts perfectly into the waffle’s deep pockets, creating sweet pools of frosting. One can produces 5 individual waffles. Toppings like fresh berries, whipped cream or chopped nuts add extra flavor and texture. These waffles stay crispy for 15 minutes after cooking.
| Recipe | Cooking Time | Servings | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| French Toast Bake | 25 minutes | 8-10 | 375°F |
| Waffles | 3-4 minutes | 5 | Medium-high |
Sweet Party Appetizers
Canned cinnamon rolls transform into delightful party appetizers with minimal preparation. These bite-sized treats feature the classic cinnamon flavor in party-friendly portions perfect for casual gatherings or holiday celebrations.
Cinnamon Roll Bites
Cut each canned cinnamon roll into four equal pieces to create bite-sized morsels. Place the pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet 2 inches apart to allow for expansion. Bake at 375°F for 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Drizzle the provided icing over warm bites or create a dipping station with additional toppings such as:
- Melted chocolate chips
- Caramel sauce
- Cream cheese frosting
- Chopped nuts
- Rainbow sprinkles
Pull-Apart Cinnamon Roll Ring
Arrange 12 quartered cinnamon roll pieces in a circular pattern on a round baking pan. Position each piece with the swirled side facing up forming a wreath-like shape. Bake at 375°F for 15-18 minutes until the edges turn golden brown. Top the warm ring with:
- Original package icing
- Cream cheese drizzle
- Crushed pecans
- Fresh berries
- Powdered sugar dusting
The ring serves 8-10 guests when pulled apart into individual sections. Store leftover pieces in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Decadent Desserts
Canned cinnamon rolls create indulgent desserts beyond traditional breakfast treats. These recipes transform store-bought cinnamon rolls into sophisticated sweet endings that serve 8-12 guests.
Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding
A rich bread pudding combines quartered canned cinnamon rolls with a vanilla custard mixture. The base requires 2 cans of cinnamon rolls cut into 1-inch pieces mixed with 4 beaten eggs 2 cups of heavy cream 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Baking at 350°F for 45 minutes creates a golden brown crispy top layer with a soft custard center. Adding 1/2 cup of raisins or chopped pecans introduces extra texture to each spoonful. Drizzling both the packaged icing plus a homemade bourbon sauce elevates this comfort dessert into a restaurant-quality dish.
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Bars
Layered cheesecake bars feature a cinnamon roll crust topped with creamy cheesecake filling. The base uses 1 can of cinnamon rolls pressed into a 9×13 baking pan. A mixture of 16 ounces cream cheese 2 eggs 1/2 cup sugar creates the smooth center layer. Chopping the second can of rolls into small pieces forms a crumble topping. Baking at 325°F for 35 minutes sets the cheesecake while maintaining the distinct cinnamon swirls. Chilling for 4 hours ensures clean slices topped with both cream cheese icing drizzle plus caramel sauce.
Tips for Working With Canned Cinnamon Rolls
Store canned cinnamon rolls in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) to maintain freshness for up to 2 weeks.
Opening techniques enhance the final presentation:
- Cut the can’s seam with a butter knife for precise control
- Tap the can gently on the counter to release pressure
- Unroll the dough slowly to prevent tearing
Temperature control affects texture:
- Room temperature dough (15 minutes) creates even baking
- Cold dough maintains shape for intricate designs
- Frozen dough (thawed) produces flakier layers
Proper handling methods improve results:
- Flour hands lightly when shaping dough
- Use a sharp knife for clean cuts
- Press seams together firmly when combining pieces
- Place rolls 2 inches apart on baking sheets
Modifications create consistent results:
- Roll dough thinner for crispy textures
- Stack layers with filling for height
- Brush with melted butter before baking
- Press into shapes using greased hands
Icing application techniques:
- Warm icing for 10 seconds for easier spreading
- Apply to rolls while hot for absorption
- Drizzle in patterns using a fork
- Reserve extra icing for serving
Storage solutions preserve freshness:
- Cool completely before covering
- Store at room temperature for 2 days
- Refrigerate for 5 days in airtight containers
- Freeze unfrosted rolls for 2 months
These practices optimize canned cinnamon roll recipes while maintaining their convenience factor.
Best Glazes and Toppings
A cream cheese glaze enhances canned cinnamon rolls with its tangy sweetness. Mix 4 oz softened cream cheese with 1 cup powdered sugar plus 2 tablespoons milk for a smooth consistency.
Here are 5 quick glazes that complement cinnamon rolls:
- Maple bourbon combines 1 cup powdered sugar with 3 tablespoons maple syrup plus 1 tablespoon bourbon
- Chocolate drizzle mixes 1 cup powdered sugar with 3 tablespoons cocoa powder plus milk
- Orange zest glaze incorporates 1 cup powdered sugar with fresh orange zest plus 2 tablespoons juice
- Coffee glaze blends 1 cup powdered sugar with 3 tablespoons strong brewed coffee
- Vanilla bean combines 1 cup powdered sugar with vanilla bean paste plus 2 tablespoons cream
Popular toppings add texture plus flavor:
- Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled before baking
- Fresh berries arranged on top after glazing
- Crumbled bacon pieces mixed into the glaze
- Toasted coconut flakes scattered over icing
- Mini chocolate chips melted slightly on warm rolls
| Glaze Type | Base Ingredient | Liquid Amount | Extra Flavoring |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic | 1 cup powdered sugar | 2-3 tbsp milk | 1/2 tsp vanilla |
| Cream Cheese | 4 oz cream cheese | 2 tbsp milk | 1 cup powdered sugar |
| Maple | 1 cup powdered sugar | 3 tbsp maple syrup | 1 tbsp bourbon |
| Chocolate | 1 cup powdered sugar | 2-3 tbsp milk | 3 tbsp cocoa powder |
| Orange | 1 cup powdered sugar | 2 tbsp juice | 1 tbsp zest |
These glazes stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerated for 1 week.
Canned cinnamon rolls offer endless possibilities for creating delightful treats that go far beyond their original form. From breakfast delicacies to party appetizers and indulgent desserts these versatile pastries can be transformed with minimal effort and maximum impact.
Whether it’s whipping up a quick batch of cinnamon roll waffles or preparing an elegant pull-apart ring for guests the options are limitless. With the right techniques toppings and creative combinations anyone can turn these convenient store-bought rolls into impressive homemade-looking treats that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
The best part? These recipes don’t require advanced baking skills making them perfect for both novice cooks and experienced bakers who want to save time without sacrificing flavor.
