How to Reheat Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re a fan of cinnamon rolls, you know that they are best when they are fresh out of the oven. However, it’s not always possible to eat them all at once. So, what do you do with the leftovers? One option is to learn how to reheat cinnamon rolls so that they taste just as delicious as they did when they were first baked.

Whether you have leftover cinnamon rolls from a bakery or homemade ones, there are several ways to reheat them that will help restore their soft and gooey texture, and enhance their warm, cinnamon flavor. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best methods for reheating cinnamon rolls so that you can enjoy them as if they were fresh out of the oven.

What are Cinnamon Rolls

Cinnamon rolls are a popular breakfast pastry that originated in Scandinavia. They are yeast rolls coated in cinnamon sugar and often icing. Here is a little information about cinnamon rolls:

Cinnamon rolls start with a sweet yeast dough that is rolled out thin. The dough is then coated in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before being rolled up tightly, cut into individual rolls and placed in a baking pan. As the rolls bake, the cinnamon sugar melts into a delicious, spicy filling. Once cooled slightly, the rolls are often topped with a sweet icing to enhance the flavors.

Traditional cinnamon rolls consist of the yeast dough, cinnamon sugar filling and icing. However, many variations have also become popular. Some use brown sugar, honey or maple in the filling. Cream cheese icing is also commonly used in addition to the traditional icing. Some recipes add raisins, pecans or a bourbon sauce for extra flavor. There are also popular non-traditional recipes for chocolate, pumpkin or apple cinnamon rolls.

Homemade cinnamon rolls require time and patience but produce amazing results. The yeast dough must be made, risen, shaped, risen again and then baked. However, they are well worth the effort for many home bakers. That said, canned or refrigerated cinnamon roll dough can also be used to make quick and tasty cinnamon rolls with minimal fuss. Either way, the intoxicating smell of cinnamon rolls baking is tough to beat!

No matter what recipes or shortcuts are used, cinnamon rolls evoke feelings of warmth, comfort and nostalgia for many. They are a perfect treat for holidays, birthdays, lazy weekends or just because. If there’s one thing that can make any occasion feel special, it’s a tray of homemade cinnamon rolls, fresh from the oven and topped with melted icing. A single bite of the sweet dough and spicy cinnamon will brighten any day. Cinnamon rolls are delicious reminders of joyful moments in life meant for making and sharing with the people who matter most.

What are cinnamon rolls made of?

Cinnamon rolls are made of a few basic ingredients:

Yeast dough – Cinnamon rolls start with a sweet yeast dough made from flour, sugar, yeast, eggs, milk and butter. The yeast feeds on the sugar and flour, producing air bubbles that make the dough rise. Eggs, milk and butter add richness, moisture and structure to the dough. Once risen, the dough is rolled out into a rectangle.

Cinnamon and sugar – The yeast dough is coated with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar. For most recipes, the filling contains sugar, cinnamon, and sometimes a bit of butter. The sugar and butter help the cinnamon adhere to the dough. As the rolls bake, the filling melts into a gooey, spicy layer within the roll.

Icing – Cinnamon rolls are often topped with a sweet icing made of powdered sugar, milk or cream cheese and sometimes vanilla. The icing enhances the spice from the cinnamon filling and adds a touch of richness. Traditional icing uses powdered sugar and milk, while cream cheese icing provides a tangy, creamy topping.

Additional add-ins (optional) – Some recipes also add extras to jazz up cinnamon rolls:

Raisins or chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans

Brown sugar, honey or maple syrup in addition to granulated sugar

Bourbon, rum or orange extract for extra flavor in the dough or icing

Spices like nutmeg, cloves or cardamom for an extra warm, seasonal twist

Citrus zest to brighten up the rolls

Caramel, chocolate, pumpkin or maple fillings instead of the traditional cinnamon and sugar

With little more than yeast, flour, sugar and cinnamon, cinnamon rolls can be made and customized in so many ways. At their heart though, homemade cinnamon rolls are all about comfort, memories and bringing people together through the joy of baking.

Can Cinnamon Rolls Be Baked In Advance?

Yes, cinnamon rolls can be baked in advance. Here are some tips for baking cinnamon rolls ahead of time:

Bake the cinnamon rolls as instructed, but slightly underbake them, checking 5-10 minutes before the suggested bake time. The rolls should appear set but slightly wobbly in the center. They will continue cooking slightly as they cool. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely, at least 2 hours.

Once cooled, promptly cover the cinnamon rolls tightly in plastic wrap, foil or an airtight container or bag. This prevents the rolls from drying out. Clearly label and date the package with the cinnamon roll flavor and bake date. 

Most baked cinnamon rolls will last up to 1-2 days at room temperature and up to 5 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze the cooled cinnamon rolls for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and enjoy immediately. Do not thaw on the counter. 

To reheat refrigerated cinnamon rolls, place on a baking sheet and warm in a 300 F oven until heated through. This will take 10-15 minutes. Tent with foil and check frequently to avoid overbaking. Let stand for 5 minutes, then serve warm with icing, milk or coffee.

To reheat frozen cinnamon rolls, place on a baking sheet and increase oven temperature to 350 F. Bake for 15-25 minutes until the center is warmed to 165 F. Check with a food thermometer. Thawed cinnamon rolls should be eaten immediately. Do not refreeze after thawing. 

Icing can be made ahead but should be topped onto cinnamon rolls just before serving. Add a splash of milk or cream and rewhip chilled icing until spreadable. Fresh icing helps ensure the best taste and texture.

Cinnamon rolls are ideal for make-ahead breakfasts and brunches when done properly. However, they do not last long due to their richness. Be sure to follow recommendations for proper storage, reheating and handling to avoid foodborne illness from bacterial growth. When in doubt, throw it out! Baked goods with egg custards and dairy fillings must be handled carefully.

How To Reheat Cinnamon Rolls – 5 Best Ways

Cinnamon rolls are a delicious treat that are perfect for breakfast or a snack. However, reheating them can be a bit tricky. If you’re wondering how to reheat cinnamon rolls, you’re in luck. In this article, we’ll explore the 5 best ways to reheat cinnamon rolls to help you enjoy them again and again.

How to Reheat Cinnamon Rolls in the Oven

Reheating cinnamon rolls in the oven is one of the best ways to restore their soft, gooey texture and warm, cinnamon flavor. Here are the steps to follow:

Allow refrigerated or frozen cinnamon rolls to sit at room temperature while the oven preheats. This helps them reheat more evenly. Refrigerated rolls should sit 30 minutes, frozen rolls 1-2 hours. Do not thaw overnight on the counter.

Preheat the oven to 300 F for refrigerated rolls or 350 F for frozen rolls. The higher temperature for frozen rolls helps ensure they reheat all the way through without drying out.   

Place the cinnamon rolls on a greased baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart. For easier cleanup, choose a baking sheet with edges to catch any drips. Spray the rolls lightly with cooking oil or melted butter. This prevents drying out. 

Tent the cinnamon rolls loosely with foil, leaving space for air flow. Make sure the foil does not touch the rolls. The foil helps hold in moisture but must be removed for browning at the end of reheating. 

Bake the refrigerated cinnamon rolls for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Bake frozen rolls 15-25 minutes until the center reaches 165 F. Check with a food thermometer. 

Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking. This allows the tops and edges to brown slightly. Watch the rolls closely to avoid overbaking. 

Let the reheated cinnamon rolls stand for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the temperature to redistribute and the filling to thicken slightly. Use extreme caution, as the rolls and baking sheet will be very hot! 

Top the warm cinnamon rolls with icing, milk, coffee or your favorite topping just before serving. Icing and other toppings should not be added until ready to eat for the best taste and texture. 

Enjoy your reheated cinnamon rolls immediately. Do not leave sitting unrefrigerated for more than 2 hours. Wrap and refrigerate any leftover un-iced rolls promptly. 

When done properly, oven reheating is a great way to enjoy cinnamon rolls again while maintaining quality. However, follow all instructions carefully to avoid dried out, unsafe rolls. Never reheat cinnamon rolls more than one time.

How to Reheat Cinnamon Rolls in the Microwave 

Reheating cinnamon rolls in the microwave is a quick and easy way to enjoy them again. Here are the steps you can follow:

Allow refrigerated or frozen cinnamon rolls to sit at room temperature while removing icing and preparing the microwave. This helps them reheat more evenly. Refrigerated rolls should sit 30 minutes, frozen rolls 1-2 hours. Do not thaw overnight on the counter.  

Remove any icing from the cinnamon rolls. The icing can be reheated separately in the microwave using 10 second bursts, stirring frequently. Reheat the icing just before serving and drizzle over the warm cinnamon rolls. 

Place one cinnamon roll at a time on a microwave-safe plate. Do not stack the rolls, as this prevents even reheating. Use a plate with raised edges to catch any drips. 

Microwave one roll at a time using 30 second bursts, checking and turning the roll over each time. This allows for even reheating and avoids overcooking. The total time will depend on the size and temperature of the roll. Aim for the center to reach 165 F. 

Let each reheated cinnamon roll stand for 1-2 minutes before checking the temperature. This allows for the heat to distribute evenly. Insert a food thermometer into the thickest part of the roll to check that it has reached a safe internal temperature of 165 F before enjoying.  

Repeat the process of 30 second bursts and standing time with the remaining cinnamon rolls one by one until all have been reheated. 

Top the reheated cinnamon rolls with the reheated icing immediately before serving. Do not top with icing until ready to eat for the best quality. 

Enjoy the reheated cinnamon rolls promptly. Do not leave sitting unrefrigerated for more than 2 hours. Microwaved rolls will become stale and unsafe to eat very quickly due to moisture loss. 

Microwaving can be a quick method for reheating cinnamon rolls but may result in drier, less ideal results. Follow instructions carefully and do not overheat, especially frozen rolls. For the best quality, reheating in a 300 F oven is preferable when possible. Only reheat what you plan to eat immediately.

How to Reheat Cinnamon Rolls in the Air Fryer

Reheating cinnamon rolls in an air fryer can give them a crispy exterior and a warm and gooey interior. Here’s how to do it:

Allow refrigerated or frozen cinnamon rolls to sit at room temperature while the air fryer preheats. This helps them reheat more evenly. Refrigerated rolls should sit 30 minutes, frozen rolls 1-2 hours. Do not thaw overnight on the counter.  

Spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil or melted butter. This prevents the cinnamon rolls from sticking as they reheat.

Place 2-3 cinnamon rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, spacing them evenly apart. Do not overcrowd the basket. 

Set the air fryer temperature to 300 F and timer for 5 minutes. Shake the basket or flip the rolls over halfway through. This allows for even reheating on all sides. 

Carefully check the internal temperature of the largest cinnamon roll. The center should reach 165 F for safety and quality. If needed, return the rolls to the air fryer in 2 minute bursts, checking frequently, until the proper temperature is reached. Watch the rolls closely to avoid overcooking.

Let the reheated cinnamon rolls stand for 2-3 minutes before checking temperature. This allows for carryover cooking and the temperature to redistribute within the roll. Use caution when removing the cinnamon rolls and handling the air fryer basket, as they will be extremely hot! 

Repeat with remaining cinnamon rolls in batches until all have been reheated. Do not stack warm rolls on top of each other. Serve warm rolls immediately. 

Top the reheated cinnamon rolls with icing, milk, coffee or your favorite topping just before serving and enjoying. Icing and toppings should not be added until ready to eat. 

An air fryer can quickly and conveniently reheat cinnamon rolls with delicious, crispy results when done properly. However, extra caution must be taken due to the intensity of the heat. Follow all instructions carefully and never reheat more than 2-3 rolls at a time for food safety. Only reheat what you plan to eat promptly.

How to Reheat Cinnamon Rolls in the Toaster Oven

Reheating cinnamon rolls in a toaster oven is a great way to achieve a crispy exterior and a warm, gooey interior. Here are the steps to follow:

Allow refrigerated or frozen cinnamon rolls to sit at room temperature while removing icing and preheating the toaster oven. This helps them reheat more evenly. Refrigerated rolls should sit 30 minutes, frozen rolls 1-2 hours. Do not thaw overnight on the counter.  

Remove any icing from the cinnamon rolls. The icing can be reheated separately in the microwave using 10 second bursts, stirring frequently. Reheat the icing just before serving and drizzle over the warm cinnamon rolls. 

Spray the toaster oven rack and a foil-lined baking sheet with cooking oil or melted butter. This prevents the cinnamon rolls from sticking as they reheat. 

Place 2-4 cinnamon rolls on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, spacing them evenly apart. Do not crowd the rolls. 

Preheat the toaster oven to 300 F and set the timer for 5-8 minutes based on the size and number of rolls. Flip the rolls over halfway through. Watch carefully to avoid overbaking. 

Carefully remove the baking sheet and check the internal temperature of the largest cinnamon roll. The center should reach 165 F for safety and quality. If needed, return to the toaster oven in 2 minute bursts, checking frequently, until proper temperature is reached.  

Let the reheated cinnamon rolls stand for 2-3 minutes before checking temperature. This allows for carryover cooking and temperature redistribution within the roll. Use caution, as the rolls, baking sheet and toaster oven will be extremely hot! 

Repeat with remaining cinnamon rolls in batches until all have been reheated. Do not stack warm rolls on top of each other. Serve warm rolls immediately. 

Top the reheated cinnamon rolls with icing, milk, coffee or your favorite topping just before serving and enjoying. Icing and toppings should not be added until ready to eat. 

A toaster oven can be a convenient appliance for reheating smaller amounts of cinnamon rolls. However, extra caution must be taken due to the intense, direct heat. Follow instructions carefully and never reheat more than 2-4 rolls at a time for ideal results and food safety. Only reheat what you plan to eat promptly.

How to reheat cinnamon rolls in a frying pan

Reheating cinnamon rolls in a frying pan is another option that can give them a crispy exterior and a warm, gooey interior. Here’s how to do it:

Allow refrigerated or frozen cinnamon rolls to sit at room temperature while preparing the frying pan. This helps them reheat more evenly. Refrigerated rolls should sit 30 minutes, frozen rolls 1-2 hours. Do not thaw overnight on the counter.  

Remove any icing from the cinnamon rolls. The icing can be reheated separately in the microwave using 10 second bursts, stirring frequently. Reheat the icing just before serving and drizzle over the warm cinnamon rolls. 

Heat 1-2 tablespoons of butter, oil or cooking spray in a large frying pan (cast iron works well) over medium-low heat. This prevents the cinnamon rolls from sticking as they reheat.

Add 2-3 cinnamon rolls to the frying pan, spacing them evenly apart in a single layer. Do not crowd the pan. 

Cover and cook, turning occasionally, until the cinnamon rolls are heated through, about 5-8 minutes total. Check frequently to avoid overcooking, especially near the end.  

Use tongs to lift one cinnamon roll and check that the center bottom is nicely browned. Carefully flip the rolls and cook the other side, uncovered, until also browned, about 2 minutes more.  

Remove the largest cinnamon roll and check that the internal temperature reaches 165 F for safety. If needed, return rolls to pan for 2 minute bursts, checking frequently, until temperature is reached. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Let reheated cinnamon rolls stand for 2-3 minutes before serving. This allows the temperature to redistribute within the roll. Use caution, as the rolls, pan and frying oil will be extremely hot! 

Top the reheated cinnamon rolls with icing, milk, coffee or your favorite topping just before serving and enjoying. Icing and toppings should not be added until ready to eat. 

Repeat with remaining cinnamon rolls in batches until all have been reheated. Do not stack warm rolls on top of each other. Serve warm rolls immediately. 

Pan reheating cinnamon rolls requires close attention but produces delicious results with a nice browned crust. However, caution must be taken due to the hot oil. Follow all instructions carefully for ideal results and safety. Never reheat more than 2-3 rolls at a time.

How to Reheat Cinnamon Rolls Without Drying Them Out

Reheating cinnamon rolls can be tricky as you want to ensure that they are warm and gooey on the inside while keeping the exterior crispy without drying them out. Here are some tips to help you reheat cinnamon rolls without drying them out:

Use a moist-heat method. Reheating cinnamon rolls in the oven, microwave, air fryer or stovetop are moist-heat methods that help keep rolls soft. Avoid reheating in the toaster which can cause quick drying out.

Brush rolls with milk or melted butter before reheating. Coating the rolls in milk, butter or oil creates a barrier that locks in moisture. You can also spray them lightly with cooking oil. 

Tent rolls loosely with foil when reheating in the oven. The foil traps moisture but still allows for some air flow. Remove foil for the last few minutes of reheating to allow tops to brown slightly. 

Use short intervals to reheat and check frequently. Reheat cinnamon rolls in short 30 second (microwave) to 3-5 minute (oven) bursts, checking and turning them over each time. This avoids overheating which leads to drying out. Check that the center reaches 165 F with a food thermometer before enjoying. 

Let rolls stand before serving. Once reheated, let cinnamon rolls stand covered for 2 to 5 minutes before serving. This allows the temperature to distribute evenly and the filling to thicken, resulting in a moister roll. But do not stand for too long or bacteria can grow. Serve promptly.  

Reheat with a splash of milk or cream. Add a splash of milk or cream to the bottom of the reheating dish or container before adding the cinnamon rolls. As they reheat, the liquid will create steam which helps to moisten and soften the pastry. Use about 1/4 inch depth of milk for average sized rolls. 

Serve rolls warm, not piping hot. Serve reheated cinnamon rolls warm or slightly above room temperature rather than piping hot. Slightly cooler rolls tend to seem more moist than those served blistering hot out of the oven. But still be very cautious, as rolls and dishes will be still be quite warm and can cause burns. 

Loosen icing with milk before drizzling. Reheat cinnamon roll icing in the microwave using short 10 second bursts, stirring in between. Once warmed, stir in 1-2 teaspoons of milk and whisk until smooth and drizzly before pouring over the warm rolls. The milk helps create a looser, moister icing that is draping rather than stiff.

How to Store Cinnamon Rolls

Here are some tips for properly storing cinnamon rolls:

Cool cinnamon rolls completely before storing. Allow fresh-baked cinnamon rolls to cool to room temperature, at least 2 hours, before storing. Covering or storing warm rolls can lead to condensation which causes sogginess. Let icing set completely if topping rolls before storing. 

Tightly wrap individual rolls in plastic wrap or foil. Wrap each cooled cinnamon roll separately in plastic wrap, foil or wax paper before storing in an airtight bag or container. This prevents rolls from sticking together and drying out. Clearly label and date the package. 

Use an airtight bag, container or wrap to store rolls. Place individually wrapped rolls in an airtight bag, container or wrap. Plastic or freezer bags, plastic or glass containers with tight-fitting lids or plastic wrap all work well. Push out as much air as possible before sealing to keep rolls fresh. 

Refrigerate rolls with icing within 2 hours. Cinnamon rolls topped with cream cheese or buttercream icing should be promptly refrigerated. Un-iced rolls can be left at room temperature for up to 2 days. Clearly date when the rolls were iced before refrigerating.

Refrigerated cinnamon rolls last up to 5 days. When properly wrapped and refrigerated, most cinnamon rolls will stay fresh for 3 to 5 days. Check that they still smell fresh before eating. Do not eat if moldy or smell unpleasant. 

Freeze rolls for up to 3 months. For longer term storage, securely wrap and freeze cooled cinnamon rolls. When ready to eat, thaw rolls overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before enjoying. Do not thaw on the counter. Use within 3 months for best quality.

Reheat refrigerated or frozen rolls in the oven at 300 F until the center reaches 165 F. Check temperature with a food thermometer. Rolls should be steaming hot all the way through. Let stand for 5 minutes before unwrapping and serving.

Do not re-refrigerate or re-freeze rolls after reheating. Only reheat what you plan to eat immediately. Discard any unwrapped or reheated leftover rolls. Do not re-refreeze thawed rolls. 

Proper storage and handling of cinnamon rolls is important to keep them fresh and avoid foodborne illness. Be sure to follow recommendations for wrapping, temperature control, reheating and avoiding excess standing time.

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