Copycat Cicis Pizza Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Ever walk into a Cicis Pizza and catch that sweet, warm scent of cinnamon rolls baking in the air? It’s the kind of smell that pulls you straight to the dessert bar before you even think about pizza. I remember my first bite — soft, buttery, and dripping with frosting — and thinking, I need this magic at home!

That’s what inspired me to perfect this Cicis Pizza cinnamon rolls recipe, a homemade version that’s just as gooey and comforting as the original. So grab your apron, and let’s turn your kitchen into your own little Cici’s — sweet aromas and all, just like this cinnamon roll bread.

What Makes Cicis Cinnamon Rolls So Special?

Cicis Pizza cinnamon rolls have a charm that’s hard to beat. They’re not your typical cinnamon rolls—they’re fluffier, sweeter, and have just the right amount of spice to make your taste buds do a happy dance. What makes them stand out is the dough, which is softer and more pizza-like, giving you that perfect chewiness you don’t usually get with regular cinnamon rolls. Plus, they’re topped with a rich, creamy frosting that melts into every layer.

And if you’ve ever had Cici’s pumpkin spice cinnamon rolls, you’ll know exactly why they’re a fan favorite, especially around the holidays. Whether you’re craving a warm breakfast or a comforting treat, these rolls are sure to hit the spot. So, let’s dive into how you can recreate Cici’s favorite in your own kitchen — or try this cinnamon roll cheesecake for another indulgent twist.

Ingredients for Cicis Pizza Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Making the perfect batch of Cicis pizza cinnamon rolls starts with the right ingredients. Trust me, once you’ve got these basics down, you’ll be on your way to a bakery-quality treat in no time. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Flour (2½ cups + 3 tablespoons): Provides the rolls with their soft, fluffy texture.
• Sugar (¼ cup): Adds sweetness and helps the yeast work better.
• Instant Yeast (2¼ tsp): Makes the dough rise quickly and evenly.
• Salt (½ tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Whole Milk (½ cup): Adds richness and tenderness to the dough.
• Butter (3 tbsp + extra for filling): Creates that buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Vegetable Oil (2 tbsp): Keeps the dough moist and soft.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Adds warmth and that classic bakery aroma.
• Egg (1 large): Gives structure and helps the dough hold together.
• Water (¼ cup): Helps bring the dough together and activate the yeast.
• Brown Sugar (⅓ cup): The key to that sticky, gooey cinnamon filling.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 tbsp): Adds warmth and that signature flavor.
• Cream Cheese (4 oz): Forms the base of the tangy-sweet frosting.
• Powdered Sugar (¾ cup): Sweetens and thickens the glaze.
• Vanilla Extract (¼ tsp): Blends perfectly into the frosting for a smooth finish.

Equipment and Tools

You don’t need a fancy kitchen setup to make these heavenly Cicis pizza cinnamon rolls. Just a few everyday tools will do the trick:

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk and spatula
• Rolling pin
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking pan (14×8-inch recommended)
• Parchment paper (for easy cleanup)
• Stand mixer (optional but handy)

Cooking Time and Serving People

Timing is everything when it comes to baking these sweet, gooey rolls. Here’s a quick breakdown so you can plan your bake with ease:

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Rise Time: About 2½ hours
• Bake Time: 18 minutes at 375°F (190°C)
• Total Time: Around 3 hours from start to finish
• Servings: 8 People

How to Make Cicis Pizza Cinnamon Rolls Copycat Recipe

Baking Cicis pizza cinnamon rolls at home is pure joy — the smell, the softness, and that gooey frosting make it all worth it. Here’s how to do it, step by step.

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 2½ cups flour, ¼ cup sugar, 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast, and ½ teaspoon salt. Mixing the dry ingredients first ensures your yeast spreads evenly through the dough. This gives you light, fluffy rolls instead of dense ones — the kind that taste just like Cici’s!

Step 2: Heat the Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan, gently warm ½ cup whole milk and add 3 tablespoons butter. Stir until the butter melts completely. Then mix in 2 tablespoons vegetable oil and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool until it’s just warm — not hot. If it’s too hot, it can stop the yeast from doing its job. Think “baby bath water” warm — that’s perfect.

Step 3: Form the Dough: Pour your warm milk mixture into the dry ingredients. Add 1 large egg and ¼ cup water, then stir everything together until it becomes sticky. Don’t worry if it feels a bit wet — that’s normal. If it’s too sticky to handle, sprinkle in an extra tablespoon of flour at a time. You’re aiming for a soft, slightly tacky dough that holds together well.

Step 4: Knead the Dough: Turn your dough onto a lightly floured surface and start kneading. If you’re doing this by hand, it’ll take about 8–10 minutes; with a stand mixer, about 6–8 minutes. The dough should feel smooth and stretchy. This step builds gluten — the secret behind that chewy, fluffy texture that makes these rolls so irresistible.

Step 5: First Rise (Proofing): Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let it rest in a warm spot for 1½–2 hours, or until it doubles in size. This is when the magic happens! If your kitchen is cool, place the bowl in a turned-off oven with just the light on — it creates the perfect warm environment for rising.

Step 6: Roll and Fill the Dough: Once your dough has risen, gently punch it down to release air bubbles. Roll it out on a floured surface into a 10×15-inch rectangle. Spread ¼ cup very soft butter across the surface. In a small bowl, mix ⅓ cup brown sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon, then sprinkle it evenly over the butter. This step fills your kitchen with that warm, sweet Cici’s aroma that everyone loves.

Step 7: Shape the Rolls: Start rolling the dough from the long side into a tight log. Pinch the seam to seal it, then slice into 8–12 even rolls. Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss for clean, round cuts. Arrange the rolls in a 14×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Leave a little space between each roll so they have room to expand.

Step 8: Second Rise: Cover the rolls again and let them rise for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until they look puffy and doubled in size. This second rise makes them extra soft and airy once baked — a step you definitely don’t want to skip!

Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 18–22 minutes, or until they’re beautifully golden on top. The smell will tell you when they’re ready — warm, sweet, and buttery. Check the center roll; if it’s baked through, your batch is perfect.

Step 10: Make the Frosting and Serve: While the rolls cool for about 25 minutes, prepare your frosting. Beat 4 ounces softened cream cheese with 2 tablespoons butter until smooth and creamy. Add ¾ cup powdered sugar and ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract, then mix until thick and silky. Spread it over the warm rolls so it melts slightly into every swirl.

Tips for This Cicis Pizza Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Want your Cicis pizza cinnamon rolls to turn out soft, gooey, and bakery-perfect? Keep these quick tips in mind — they make all the difference!

1. Give the Dough Time to Rise: Good dough needs patience. Let it rise until it doubles in size — usually about 1½ to 2 hours. Don’t rush it. A slow, steady rise helps the rolls turn out light, fluffy, and full of flavor, just like the real Cicis cinnamon rolls.

2. Keep the Dough Soft (Not Dry): Your dough should feel soft and slightly sticky, not dry or stiff. If it’s too firm, the rolls will bake up dense instead of tender. Add small amounts of flour only if needed. A wetter dough makes a softer, chewier roll — exactly what you want.

3. Don’t Overbake: Golden brown is the goal. Check your rolls around the 18-minute mark; the tops should look lightly golden, and the centers should still feel soft. Overbaking can dry them out, and you’ll lose that famous Cici’s gooeyness.

4. Frost While Warm, Not Hot: Wait about 20 minutes after baking before spreading your cream cheese frosting. When the rolls are warm (not steaming hot), the frosting melts just enough to soak into the swirls, giving you that perfect creamy layer without sliding off.

5. Add a Flavor Twist: For a fun seasonal version, try making Cicis pumpkin spice cinnamon rolls. Add a spoonful of pumpkin purée and a sprinkle of nutmeg, ginger, and cloves to your filling. It’s cozy, aromatic, and tastes like autumn in every bite.

Serving Ideas for the Amazing Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Fresh, warm Cicis pizza cinnamon rolls taste amazing on their own, but a few simple pairings can make them even better.

1. Classic Breakfast Pairing: Serve your cinnamon rolls warm with a hot cup of coffee, cappuccino, or latte. The creamy frosting and bold coffee flavors balance each other perfectly. For a caffeine-free option, try hot cocoa or chai tea — both make every bite taste even cozier.

2. Dessert Twist after Pizza Night: Want to recreate that full Cici’s experience? Bake your rolls right after a homemade pizza dinner. The sweetness of the cinnamon rolls complements the savory pizza flavors — it’s a nostalgic combination that brings that buffet magic home. For the perfect base, try this chimichurri pizza sauce to give your pizza a bold, flavorful kick.

3. A Scoop of Ice Cream (for the Sweet Tooths): Top a warm roll with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream. The contrast between the cold ice cream and the warm, gooey roll is pure bliss. For an elegant twist, try this rose pistachio cheesecake ice cream recipe — it’s creamy, floral, and absolutely indulgent.

4. Fruit and Freshness: Pair your Cicis cinnamon rolls with fresh fruit on the side — sliced strawberries, bananas, or a handful of blueberries. The natural tartness of the fruit balances the sweetness of the rolls and adds a refreshing touch.

5. Brunch Party Favorite: Hosting friends or family? Arrange your cinnamon rolls on a platter with mini croissants, fresh fruit, and mimosas. They’ll be the star of the table — soft, shiny, and impossible to resist.

Storage Guidance for Leftover Cicis Pizza Cinnamon Rolls

Don’t worry if you have a few Cicis pizza cinnamon rolls left — they stay just as tasty with the right care!

• At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep them covered to lock in moisture and softness.
• In the Fridge: Lasts up to 5 days. Warm each roll for 15–20 seconds in the microwave before serving for that fresh-baked feel.
• In the Freezer: Freeze unfrosted rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight, warm gently, and frost before enjoying.

Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

Even the best bakers slip up sometimes! Here’s how to avoid common issues when making your Cicis pizza cinnamon rolls — and easy fixes if things go sideways.

• Dough Didn’t Rise: Your yeast might have expired, or the liquid was too hot. Always use fresh instant yeast and lukewarm milk.
• Rolls Turned Out Dense: You may have added too much flour. Keep the dough soft and slightly sticky — that’s the secret to fluffiness.
• Filling Leaked Out: Roll the dough tightly and pinch the seam closed before slicing.
• Frosting Too Runny: Add more powdered sugar or chill it briefly before spreading.
• Overbaked Rolls: Check early! Bake just until golden for soft, gooey centers.

FAQs about Cicis Pizza Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Got questions before you start baking? You’re not alone! Here are some quick answers to the most common questions about making the perfect Cicis pizza cinnamon rolls — soft, sweet, and just like the ones you love from the buffet.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve got the recipe, tips, and variations for making your own Cicis pizza cinnamon rolls, it’s time to get baking! Whether you’re making them for breakfast, dessert, or just because you can’t resist that sweet cinnamon smell, these rolls are sure to be a hit every time. The best part? You can personalize them with your favorite twists, like pumpkin spice or chocolate, making them your very own signature treat.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and let the magic happen in your kitchen. These rolls are more than just a recipe—they’re a warm, comforting experience you’ll want to repeat again and again. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share the joy with your family and friends. Happy baking!

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