If you’re a fan of cinnamon rolls and ice cream, then you’re in for a treat. Imagine the warm, comforting flavors of freshly baked cinnamon rolls swirled into a creamy, smooth ice cream base.
Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream is the perfect combination of your favorite breakfast pastry and a refreshing frozen dessert.
The rich cinnamon and buttery swirls meld beautifully with the sweet creaminess of ice cream, making each bite an indulgent experience.
This recipe brings together two beloved comfort foods in a way you’ve never tasted before.
Whether it’s for a cozy dessert at home or something to impress at your next gathering, Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream will definitely be a crowd-pleaser.
Let’s dive into how you can make this sweet, decadent treat from scratch!
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream
This recipe combines the best of both worlds: the comfort of a freshly baked cinnamon roll and the refreshing coolness of ice cream. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this treat:
- Irresistible Flavor Fusion: The warm spices from the cinnamon rolls mixed with the cool, rich creaminess of the ice cream create an unforgettable flavor profile.
- Texture Perfection: The cinnamon rolls add a delightful chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy smoothness of the ice cream.
- Customizable: Want a little extra sweetness? Add a drizzle of caramel sauce. Prefer a tangy twist? Try a hint of cream cheese frosting on top. The possibilities are endless!
- Perfect for All Occasions: Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or serving it at a gathering, this dessert is sure to impress.
The best part? Making this Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream at home means you control every part of the process—ensuring that each scoop is packed with as much cinnamon roll goodness as you want.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream
Before diving into the process, let’s take a look at the ingredients that will make this dessert a sweet success.
For the Cinnamon Rolls
- All-purpose flour: The base for the dough.
- Instant yeast: To help the dough rise quickly.
- Milk: Adds richness to the dough.
- Butter: Ensures the dough is soft and tender.
- Sugar: A little sweetness in the dough.
- Cinnamon: The key spice for that signature cinnamon roll flavor.
- Brown sugar: To create the caramelized swirl in the rolls.
For the Ice Cream Base
- Heavy cream: Provides the smooth and creamy texture for the ice cream.
- Whole milk: To balance the richness of the cream.
- Sugar: Sweetens the base to perfection.
- Vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor to the base.
- Egg yolks (if making a custard-based ice cream): This makes the base extra creamy and helps with texture.
Optional Add-ins
- Cream cheese frosting (for drizzling or mixing into the ice cream for extra sweetness and tang).
- Caramel sauce: For a delightful finish on top or mixed into the ice cream.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts: If you want a bit of crunch to contrast with the soft cinnamon rolls.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Homemade Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream
Making Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream from scratch may seem like a bit of a project, but trust me, it’s worth every step. Here’s how you do it:
Making the Cinnamon Roll Dough
Start by preparing the cinnamon roll dough. If you’re making your dough from scratch, combine the flour, yeast, milk, butter, and sugar in a bowl. Knead the dough until it’s soft and elastic. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours until it has doubled in size. If you’re using store-bought dough, simply skip this step and move on to baking!
Baking the Cinnamon Rolls
Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle. Brush with melted butter, then sprinkle with a generous amount of brown sugar and cinnamon to create that signature swirl. Roll up the dough tightly, cut it into individual rolls, and place them in a greased baking pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until golden and cooked through. Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool completely before breaking them into small pieces for the ice cream.
Preparing the Ice Cream Base
Now it’s time for the ice cream! If you’re making a custard-based ice cream, begin by heating the milk and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until warm but not boiling. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy. Gradually pour the warm milk mixture into the eggs, stirring constantly to avoid scrambling. Once combined, return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens to the consistency of custard. Stir in the vanilla extract and allow the mixture to cool completely.
If you’re making a no-churn version, simply whisk together the heavy cream, milk, and sugar in a bowl until smooth and fluffy, then fold in the vanilla extract. This method is a quicker option but still delicious!
Swirling in the Cinnamon Rolls
Once the ice cream base is prepared and cooled (or if you’re using a no-churn base, once it’s mixed), gently fold in the cooled cinnamon roll pieces, creating beautiful swirls throughout the ice cream base. Be careful not to overmix—keeping some larger chunks of cinnamon rolls adds texture and flavor.
Chilling and Freezing the Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream
Once your ice cream base is mixed with the cinnamon roll chunks, it’s time to let it chill and freeze into a creamy, scoopable delight.
Freezing the Ice Cream
Transfer your ice cream mixture into an airtight container. Use a spatula to smooth the top and ensure it’s evenly spread. This step is crucial for getting a consistent texture as the ice cream freezes. You can cover it with plastic wrap directly on the surface of the ice cream to prevent ice crystals from forming.
How Long to Freeze
Place your container in the freezer and allow the ice cream to freeze for at least 4-6 hours or overnight. The more time it spends freezing, the firmer and creamier it will become. If you’re making custard-based ice cream, the texture will be rich and smooth, while a no-churn version will set up just as beautifully after the same amount of time.
Pro Tip: If you’re using an ice cream maker, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. This can speed up the freezing process and help achieve a smoother, creamier texture.
Serving Your Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream
After waiting (patiently!) for your Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream to freeze to perfection, it’s finally time to serve and enjoy. Here’s how to elevate your ice cream experience:
Creative Ways to Serve
You can serve this indulgent treat in a variety of ways to suit any occasion:
- In a bowl or cone: Classic and simple, allowing you to really savor the cinnamon roll chunks in each bite.
- Cinnamon Roll Sundae: For a decadent experience, place a scoop of ice cream on top of a warm cinnamon roll. Drizzle with caramel or cream cheese frosting for an added layer of sweetness.
- Ice Cream Sandwich: Sandwich a scoop of cinnamon roll ice cream between two soft cinnamon rolls or cookies for a fun twist.
Toppings to Elevate the Flavor
Want to make your cinnamon roll ice cream even more irresistible? Consider adding some of these toppings:
- Caramel sauce: A rich, buttery drizzle that complements the cinnamon flavor perfectly.
- Chopped nuts: Crushed pecans or walnuts add a bit of crunch and contrast to the soft ice cream and cinnamon roll pieces.
- Cream cheese frosting: Drizzle a little homemade or store-bought frosting on top for a creamy, tangy finish.
- Chocolate chips: For a surprising touch of sweetness, scatter some mini chocolate chips over the ice cream.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream
To ensure your Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream is absolutely perfect, here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind during the process:
1. Use Freshly Baked Cinnamon Rolls
While you can use store-bought cinnamon rolls, freshly baked ones will provide the best texture and flavor. The soft, slightly chewy pieces of homemade cinnamon rolls are the ideal addition to the ice cream base. Plus, the warmth of the freshly baked rolls enhances the overall flavor profile.
2. Don’t Overmix the Swirls
When folding the cinnamon roll pieces into the ice cream base, be sure not to overmix. You want to keep the swirls and chunks intact for that perfect balance of creamy ice cream and cinnamon roll goodness. If you overmix, the rolls will dissolve too much into the ice cream.
3. Freeze the Ice Cream in Layers
If you’re making the ice cream at home and not using an ice cream machine, freezing it in layers can help prevent large ice crystals from forming. After each layer of ice cream is added to the container, give it a little tap to smooth it out. This helps the texture remain creamy once it freezes.
4. Add Extra Cinnamon or Caramel Swirls
For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding a cinnamon or caramel ribbon throughout the ice cream. Simply drizzle a little caramel sauce or cinnamon syrup onto each layer before you freeze it. Use a butter knife or skewer to swirl the sauce through the ice cream for a beautiful marbled effect.
5. Let the Ice Cream Soften Slightly Before Serving
When serving, let the ice cream soften for about 5 minutes at room temperature before scooping. This helps it achieve the perfect texture, making it easier to scoop and enhancing the flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use store-bought cinnamon rolls for this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use store-bought cinnamon rolls to save time. However, homemade cinnamon rolls will add more flavor and texture to your ice cream.
2. Do I need an ice cream maker to make this recipe?
No, you don’t need an ice cream maker! You can make this ice cream with a no-churn method, which only requires mixing the ingredients and freezing them. If you do have an ice cream maker, it will help create a smoother, creamier texture.
3. How long will this ice cream keep in the freezer?
Your cinnamon roll ice cream will keep for up to 1-2 weeks in the freezer. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
4. Can I add extra toppings to the cinnamon roll ice cream?
Definitely! You can add crushed nuts, extra cinnamon, chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of more caramel or cream cheese frosting. Experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combo.
5. Can I make this ice cream dairy-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe dairy-free by using coconut cream or almond milk in place of the heavy cream and whole milk. You’ll also need to find dairy-free cinnamon rolls if you want to keep the entire recipe dairy-free.
Conclusion
Incorporating the sweet, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls into creamy ice cream is a true game-changer. Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream offers the best of both worlds—warm cinnamon goodness and cool, creamy indulgence. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just as a treat for yourself, this dessert will never disappoint.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and treat yourself to a bowl (or cone) of this delightful frozen dessert. Don’t forget to share your creations and variations with others—you might just inspire someone else to try it too!
Enjoy your cinnamon roll ice cream, and don’t be afraid to get creative with it. It’s the perfect way to enjoy cinnamon rolls in an entirely new and delicious form.
Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream
Equipment
- 1 medium mixing bowl
- 1 Baking dish (9×9-inch)
- 1 whisk
- 1 Spatula
- 1 Ice cream container or storage tub
- 1 Stand mixer or hand mixer (optional, for the dough)
- 1 Small saucepan (for custard, if using)
- 1 Measuring spoons and cups
- 1 Rolling pin
- 1 Knife (for cutting cinnamon rolls into pieces)
Ingredients
For the Cinnamon Rolls
- 3 cups All-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ teaspoons Instant yeast
- 1 cup Whole milk
- ½ cup Unsalted butter melted
- ¼ cup Granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 large Egg
- 1 cup Brown sugar packed
For the Ice Cream Base
- 2 cups Heavy cream
- 1 cup Whole milk
- ¾ cup Granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon Vanilla extract
- 4 Egg yolks for custard-based ice cream
Optional Toppings
- ¼ cup Caramel sauce
- ¼ cup Chopped pecans or walnuts
- ¼ cup Cream cheese frosting
Instructions
Make the Cinnamon Roll Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
- Warm the milk and melt the butter, then add to the dry ingredients with the egg. Stir until the dough comes together, then knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle. Brush with melted butter, then sprinkle with cinnamon and brown sugar.
- Roll up the dough and slice it into individual rolls.
- Place the rolls in a greased 9×9-inch pan and bake for 18-20 minutes, until golden brown. Let them cool completely.
Make the Ice Cream Base:
- In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream and whole milk over medium heat until warm, but not boiling.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until pale.
- Gradually pour the warm milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. Return to the saucepan and cook over low heat until it thickens slightly. Stir in the vanilla extract. Let the custard cool.
Assemble the Ice Cream:
- Once the ice cream base and cinnamon rolls are both cool, break the cinnamon rolls into small pieces and gently fold them into the ice cream base.
- Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent ice crystals.
- Freeze for 4-6 hours, or overnight, until firm.
Serve:
- Let the ice cream soften for a few minutes at room temperature before scooping. Serve with optional toppings like caramel sauce, crushed nuts, or cream cheese frosting.
Notes
- Dough Tip: If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought cinnamon roll dough, but homemade dough will yield better texture and flavor.
- Flavor Variations: Add a swirl of caramel sauce or cinnamon syrup to the ice cream base for extra sweetness.
- No Ice Cream Maker Option: This recipe works well without an ice cream maker. Simply mix and freeze, as described above.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute coconut milk or almond milk for the dairy products, and use a dairy-free cinnamon roll dough.
