There’s a certain joy in taking a little time to create something special in the kitchen, and these Sicilian Brioche Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect way to do just that. Imagine waking up to the tantalizing aroma of fresh dough rising, mingling with the sweet scent of cinnamon and sugar wafting through your home. It’s like a warm hug, comforting and inviting.
This recipe transforms traditional cinnamon rolls by using airy Sicilian brioche dough, elevating your brunch game while staying easy enough to whip up even on busy mornings. Whether you’re planning a cozy family gathering or looking for an impressive treat to share with friends, these rolls—light, fluffy, and drizzled with creamy icing—are sure to steal the show. Perfect for those who crave homemade goodness over fast food, join me in indulging in this delightful culinary adventure!
Why are these Brioche Cinnamon Rolls special?
Irresistible Aroma: The sweet scent of cinnamon mingling with freshly baked brioche fills your kitchen with warmth and comfort.
Elevated Classic: This recipe redefines cinnamon rolls using the lightness of Sicilian brioche, giving them a unique twist that sets them apart from typical versions.
Versatile Enjoyment: Whether served plain or topped with luscious cream cheese icing, these rolls cater to every palate and occasion.
Effortless Baking: Simple steps and common ingredients make it easy for anyone, from novice cooks to seasoned chefs, to create this delicious treat.
Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or brunch with friends, these rolls are sure to impress and delight every guest.
Indulge in the joy of homemade baking with these delightful rolls!
Brioche Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
• Sicilian Brioche Dough – The foundation of fluffy rolls; make sure to omit the orange zest for this sweet treat.
For the Filling
• Unsalted Butter (¼ cup) – Adds richness and moisture; melted butter works best for easy spreading.
• Brown Sugar (½ cup) – Sweetens the filling with depth; feel free to choose light or dark brown sugar based on taste preference.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 tablespoon) – Provides that signature aromatic flavor of cinnamon rolls; adjust up to 1 ½ tablespoons for extra spice.
For the Icing
• Cream Cheese (¼ cup, at room temperature) – Adds tanginess and creaminess to the icing; ensure it’s softened for smooth mixing.
• Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons, at room temperature) – Enhances the creaminess of the icing; make sure it’s softened for easy incorporation.
• Powdered Sugar (½ cup) – Sweetens and thickens the icing; sift before using to ensure a lump-free texture.
• Milk (1 tablespoon) – Thins out the icing for a spreadable consistency; add more if necessary to reach the desired thickness.
• Vanilla Extract (¼ teaspoon) – Elevates the flavor profile of the icing; opt for pure or imitation based on your pantry stock.
How to Make Brioche Cinnamon Rolls
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Prepare Dough: Follow the Sicilian brioche dough recipe up to step 5, omitting orange zest for flavor; let it rise for about 3 hours until doubled in size.
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Make Filling: Melt the butter and brush a 10×14 inch baking dish with it. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon until well combined.
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Assemble Rolls: Roll the dough into a 12×18 inch rectangle, brush with melted butter, and evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Roll tightly from the long edge and cut into 12 pieces.
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Second Rise: Place your cut rolls in the prepared baking dish, cover them, and let them rise until the rolls are touching each other, approximately 1 to 1 ½ hours.
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Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the rolls for about 20-25 minutes, until golden brown. Enjoy warm or let them cool to room temperature.
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Prepare Icing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream cheese and butter until smooth; add in vanilla and powdered sugar, then incorporate milk until you achieve a thick but spreadable consistency.
Optional: Drizzle with icing for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Sicilian Brioche Cinnamon Rolls?
Creating the perfect brunch spread to enjoy alongside these fluffy rolls will surely impress your guests and elevate your meal.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and a splash of color, complementing the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls.
- Creamy Scrambled Eggs: The rich, velvety texture of scrambled eggs brings a delicious balance to the sweet rolls, making for a delightful contrast.
- Dutch Baby Pancakes: This airy pancake, dusted with powdered sugar, pairs beautifully with the warm sweetness of the cinnamon rolls for a decadent breakfast experience.
- Strong Brewed Coffee: A robust cup of coffee cuts through the sweetness while enhancing the warm flavors of cinnamon – a classic pairing!
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: For an extra touch of sweetness, serve with warm maple syrup that complements the cinnamon rolls’ flavors wonderfully.
- Savory Sausages: Juicy, savory sausages bring a hearty element to your brunch table, balancing the sweetness of the rolls and satisfying every palate.
- Chai Tea: The warming spices in chai tea beautifully echo the cinnamon rolls’ flavors, making it a cozy drink option for a comforting pairing.
- Lemonade: A refreshing glass of homemade lemonade adds a bright contrast to the rich sweetness and is perfect for a warmer day.
- Chocolate Chia Pudding: This creamy dessert can be a delightful end to brunch, providing an indulgent yet nutritious sweet finish that pairs nicely with cinnamon flavors.
Expert Tips for Brioche Cinnamon Rolls
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Dough Consistency: Make sure your Sicilian brioche dough is soft and elastic; it should spring back when poked. This ensures fluffy rolls.
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Temperature Matters: Keep your ingredients at room temperature to help the butter blend smoothly into the cream cheese icing for that perfect consistency.
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Cutting Technique: Use unflavored dental floss or a sharp knife to ensure clean cuts between each roll; this prevents squishing them and keeps their shape intact.
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Baking Time: Keep an eye on your rolls towards the end of baking; remove them when they turn golden brown to avoid dryness.
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Storage Solutions: To enjoy later, store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.
These expert tips will help you achieve the best results when making your own delicious Brioche Cinnamon Rolls!
Make Ahead Options
These Sicilian Brioche Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy mornings! You can assemble the rolls up to 24 hours in advance by preparing them through the second rise, then refrigerating them instead of letting them rise at room temperature. Just be sure to cover the baking dish tightly to maintain their moisture and flavor. When you’re ready to bake, allow the rolls to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then pop them in the oven as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy warm, fluffy cinnamon rolls fresh and ready to serve without the last-minute fuss!
Brioche Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting twists to make your cinnamon rolls uniquely yours!
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Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a crunchy texture that complements the sweetness beautifully. The added richness makes each bite utterly satisfying.
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Fruit Fusion: Toss in diced apples or sliced pears for a natural sweetness and fruity flair. This variation brightens the flavor profile and adds a delightful juicy surprise.
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Scented Spice: Boost the warmth by mixing in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom with the cinnamon. These spices bring an extra layer of aromatic richness that elevates your rolls.
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Chocolate Swirl: Stir in mini chocolate chips with the cinnamon filling to create a sweet, melty surprise. Chocolate lovers will adore this dreamy variation that pairs perfectly with cream cheese icing.
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Maple Glaze: Swap the cream cheese icing with a maple syrup glaze made from powdered sugar and maple syrup for a unique twist. The rich maple flavor provides a delightful contrast to the pillowy rolls.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter for both the filling and icing. This swap creates a dairy-free version that’s just as delicious and offers a hint of tropical flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of chili powder to the cinnamon-sugar filling for a warming heat. This unexpected twist will surprise and delight adventurous palates!
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Zesty Icing: For a citrusy zing, mix in a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest into your icing. This brightens the overall flavor, creating a refreshing finish that perfectly balances sweetness.
Storage Tips for Brioche Cinnamon Rolls
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to retain softness and flavor. Avoid leaving them uncovered to prevent drying out.
Fridge: If you prefer longer shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Ensure they are wrapped tightly to minimize moisture loss.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cinnamon rolls individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy warm, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 20-30 seconds until warmed through.
Brioche Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
What kind of dough should I use for the rolls?
You should use Sicilian brioche dough as the base for your cinnamon rolls. This dough provides a light and airy texture that elevates the traditional roll. Just be sure to omit the orange zest for this specific recipe!
How should I store my brioche cinnamon rolls?
Store your rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh and soft, avoid leaving them uncovered, as they can dry out quickly.
Can I freeze my cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! To freeze, individually wrap each cinnamon roll in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, just reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave for 20-30 seconds until warmed through.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise well?
If your dough hasn’t risen properly, it could be due to several factors. First, check that your yeast is fresh. If the dough feels too dry or tough, try kneading it a bit more. If the dough isn’t rising, consider moving it to a warmer place, as yeast thrives in warm environments. Ideally, room temperature should be around 75°F to 80°F.
Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
While this recipe is specifically designed for traditional Sicilian brioche dough, you can experiment with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to use a blend that includes xanthan gum, which helps with texture. The results may vary, but it’s worth trying if you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative!
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Yes! You can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative for the dough and filling. For the icing, almond or cashew cream can be a delicious substitute for cream cheese. Just keep in mind that the flavor and consistency may differ somewhat from the original!
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Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Dough: Follow the Sicilian brioche dough recipe, omitting orange zest, and let rise for about 3 hours.
- Make Filling: Melt butter and brush a baking dish. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon together.
- Assemble Rolls: Roll the dough into a rectangle, brush with melted butter, sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture, roll tightly, and cut into 12 pieces.
- Second Rise: Place cut rolls in the baking dish, cover, and let rise until they touch each other, about 1 to 1 ½ hours.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.
- Prepare Icing: Whisk cream cheese and butter until smooth, add vanilla and powdered sugar, then incorporate milk for spreadable consistency.