Minibon from Cinnabon features warm, soft cinnamon rolls topped with rich cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, delivering a bite-sized treat bursting with sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors.
Equipments
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- Sharp knife or dough cutter
- Stand mixer (optional)
- Spatula
- Wire cooling rack
- Piping bag or spoon (for frosting)
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened, for filling)
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened, for frosting)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened, for frosting)
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Ground cinnamon (for sprinkling)
Active dry yeast must be fresh and activated in warm milk, ideally between 110degF and 115degF, to ensure proper dough rising. Using softened unsalted butter for both the dough and filling helps create a tender texture and rich flavor. Brown sugar should be packed firmly when measured to maintain the correct sweetness level in the cinnamon filling. Cream cheese used in the frosting must be softened to achieve the smooth, creamy consistency typical of Cinnabon's signature topping. Your Minibon copycat recipe from Cinnabon will deliver the iconic bite-sized cinnamon rolls topped with luscious cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk; let sit until foamy.
- Add sugar, softened butter, salt, and eggs; mix until combined.
- Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead dough until smooth and elastic (5-8 minutes).
- Place dough in a greased bowl; cover and let rise until doubled (about 1 hour).
- Roll out dough on floured surface into a large rectangle (about 1/4-inch thick).
- Spread softened butter for filling evenly over dough.
- Sprinkle brown sugar and ground cinnamon evenly over buttered dough.
- Roll up dough tightly from the long side; pinch edge to seal.
- Cut rolled dough into 1 to 1.5-inch slices using a sharp knife or dough cutter.
- Arrange rolls on a greased baking sheet.
- Cover and let rise until nearly doubled (about 30 minutes).
- Bake rolls in preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool slightly on wire rack.
- Prepare frosting: beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- Spread or pipe frosting over warm rolls.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
- Serve warm.
Substitution
The Minibon from Cinnabon copycat recipe replicates those warm, soft cinnamon rolls topped with rich cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. If you don't have active dry yeast, instant yeast can be substituted by adjusting the rising time slightly. Using whole milk instead of warm milk is possible, but the dough may take longer to rise since warmth activates the yeast. When cream cheese is unavailable, mascarpone or a blend of softened butter and cream can mimic the frosting's creamy texture, though flavor will vary. Your baking sheet should be properly greased or lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking during baking.
Tips
Ensure your milk is warm, between 100degF to 110degF, to activate the yeast properly; too hot can kill the yeast, and too cold will prevent it from foaming. When kneading, aim for a smooth, elastic dough to develop gluten, which helps the rolls rise and have a tender texture. Use a sharp knife or dough cutter for clean slices to maintain their shape during baking. Frost the rolls while still warm but not hot to allow the cream cheese frosting to melt slightly without sliding off your Minibon.
Nutritions
Minibons from Cinnabon are a delicious source of carbohydrates from enriched all-purpose flour and sugars like granulated and brown sugar that provide quick energy. The cream cheese frosting adds fat and protein, mainly from cream cheese and butter, contributing to satiety and flavor richness. Yeast in the dough promotes digestion and the cinnamon offers antioxidant properties for potential health benefits. When enjoying your Minibon treat, be mindful of portion size to balance indulgence with your nutritional goals.
Storage
Store your Minibons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their softness and freshness. For longer storage, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag; freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw frozen rolls overnight in the refrigerator, then warm in a preheated oven at 300degF (150degC) for 5-7 minutes before serving to restore their freshly baked texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute Greek yogurt for half of the warm milk to add moisture and a slight tang to the Minibons. For the filling, try mixing finely chopped nuts or raisins into the brown sugar and cinnamon for added texture and flavor complexity. Baking the rolls in a mini muffin tin instead of a baking sheet will create perfectly portioned, uniform bites that hold their shape better. Using a piping bag to apply the cream cheese frosting allows for cleaner, more decorative presentation on each warm roll.
Allergies
Minibon from Cinnabon contains common allergens such as eggs, dairy (milk, butter, cream cheese), and wheat flour, which can trigger reactions for individuals with sensitivities to these ingredients. Yeast is also present, which may cause issues for those with yeast intolerance. If you have allergies to any of these components, it is important to avoid this treat to prevent adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
Cinnabon's Minibon menu offers perfectly portioned, irresistibly soft cinnamon rolls that deliver the classic flavor with a convenient size. The combination of sweet cream cheese frosting and the rich cinnamon filling creates a satisfying taste experience that appeals to a wide range of palates. Your effort to create a copycat version captures the essence of Cinnabon's beloved treat, making it an affordable and customizable option for indulgence at home. Recreating this menu item allows you to enjoy a fresh, warm dessert anytime without the need for a visit to the restaurant.