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The Best Homemade Cinnamon Roll Icing Recipe

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  • Author: Diane
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes (excluding softening time)
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes (plus 30-45 minutes softening time)
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Dessert Topping
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This rich and creamy homemade cinnamon roll icing recipe is the perfect complement to fresh, warm cinnamon rolls. Made with cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar, it creates a smooth, fluffy topping with a hint of vanilla that melts beautifully over your rolls for a deliciously indulgent treat.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Icing

  • 4 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 to 2 tbsp milk or heavy cream (adjust to preferred texture)


Instructions

  1. Soften Cream Cheese and Butter: Let the cream cheese and butter sit at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes until both are soft enough to blend smoothly.
  2. Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: In a medium bowl, use a mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and butter until the mixture becomes smooth and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
  3. Add Vanilla Extract: Pour in the vanilla extract and continue beating until it is fully incorporated into the mixture.
  4. Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar in batches, beating after each addition to ensure a smooth, lump-free icing.
  5. Adjust Consistency: Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk or heavy cream to achieve your desired icing consistency, whether you prefer it thicker or more pourable.
  6. Serve: Spread the icing generously over warm cinnamon rolls and serve immediately for the best melty, creamy topping experience.

Notes

  • Make sure the cream cheese and butter are properly softened to avoid lumps in the icing.
  • Sift the powdered sugar before adding to prevent graininess.
  • Adjust milk or cream amount based on how thick or runny you prefer your icing.
  • This icing is best used on warm cinnamon rolls so it melts slightly and distributes evenly.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and re-whip before serving.