Introducing the most enchanting twist to your holiday baking adventures; Grinch Cinnamon Rolls! As the festive season approaches, it's time to infuse a little extra magic into your mornings.
What better way to do that than with these delectable, whimsical treats? Imagine the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls filling your kitchen. But with a charming green Grinchy twist that is topped with a heart sprinkle.
These Grinch themed cinnamon rolls are not just a treat for your taste buds. They're a visual delight that will bring joy to your heart. With their vibrant green swirls and sweet, gooey goodness. They capture the very essence of the holiday season.
I got thinking about making these Grinchy rolls after I created our Cookie Monster Cinnamon rolls. Since our family loves the Grinch movie, I thought these would be a great hit to enjoy on Christmas morning.
Why You'll Love These Rolls
There are countless reasons why you'll fall head over heels for this easy Grinch cinnamon rolls recipe. First and foremost, they're incredibly simple to make. Making them the perfect treat to enjoy for Christmas breakfast.
Whether you're an experienced pasty chef or just getting started in the kitchen. This recipe will guide you with easy-to-follow steps to ensure a successful batch every time.
But it's not just about how simple making this recipe is. It's also about the delightful combination of flavors and the touch of whimsy that these rolls bring to your holiday table.
The sweet and gooey cinnamon filling perfectly complements the slightly tangy green dough, topped with green cream cheese frosting and a tiny heart.
Creating a taste sensation that's truly unique. Plus, the playful Grinch-inspired design adds a fun and festive element that's sure to bring smiles to your family and guests.
These fun Grinch cinnamon rolls are not just a delicious treat. They're a memorable addition to your holiday traditions. Making your Christmas mornings merrier and more magical.
Perfect addition to any Christmas themed party where the story of the Grinch is being told.
Ingredients Needed
Get ready to infuse your holiday baking with a touch of whimsy with our Grinch Cinnamon Rolls recipe. These delightful green swirls of sweetness are not only visually captivating but also a treat for your taste buds.
Let's take a look at the key ingredients that make this recipe so enchanting.
For the dough, we will need.
- All-purpose flour forms the foundation of the rolls while providing structure and texture.
- Yeast is the leavening agent that helps the dough to rise.
- Milk is what activates the yeast and hydrates the dough.
- Granulated sugar adds sweetness to the dough.
- Unsalted butter imparts a rich and buttery flavor to the dough.
- Salt enhances the overall flavor by balancing the sweetness.
- Eggs contribute to the dough's structure and texture.
- Green food coloring gives us that classic Grinch color.
For the cinnamon filling, we will need.
- Brown sugar provides a deeper more caramel like flavor to the cinnamon rolls.
- Ground cinnamon adds the classic cinnamon flavor that's a hallmark of cinnamon rolls.
- Unsalted butter that is at room temperature creates a rich buttery filling that complements the cinnamon.
Now for the fun green icing that goes on top of these Grinch rolls.
- Cream cheese that is softened brings the creamy tangy base of the icing.
- Softened unsalted butter adds richness and complements the cream cheese in the frosting.
- Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the icing.
- Powdered Sugar helps to sweeten the frosting while also making the green frosting thick and spreadable.
- Green Food Coloring brings more of that classic green color to these themed treats.
- Small heart sprinkles finished off these fun treat.
How To Make
Creating these Grinch Cinnamon Rolls with cream cheese frosting is a delightful holiday project that's simpler than you might think. Here's a step-by-step guide to making these festive treats.
We will begin by making the dough, I like to use my stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. But using a large bowl and mixing by hand will also work. Combine half of the flour and yeast, then set this aside.
In a small saucepan heat together the milk, sugar, butter, and salt until the temperature reaches 120-130 degrees. Once the milk mixture is heated slowly add into the dry ingredients until all the milk is added and everything is combined.
Next, we are going to add in the eggs, doing one egg at a time and making sure each gets mixed in. Then we are going to add in as much of the remaining flour as we can using the stand mixer.
Once you have as much of the flour added as you can, add in the tablespoon of green food coloring. Mixing until the green color is evenly distributed.
Onto a clean work surface knead in the reaming flour, then allow the dough to rise in a warm place. Once the dough has risen for 1 hour remove the towel and punch the dough down. Cover back up and allow to rest 10- minutes longer.
This would be the perfect time to get a baking dish prepared by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray. Roll the dough into a rectangular shape that is ¼ inch in thickness. Spread unsalted butter onto the rectangle-shaped dough.
For the cinnamon filling combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar over the top of the butter.
Roll the cinnamon roll dough up into a log shape. Cut 2-inch slices with a sharp knife, and place the rolls in the prepared baking dish. Place the rolls close but also allow a bit of space for the extra rising. Cover with a towel and allow a second rise for another 30 minutes.
Get the oven preheating to 375 degrees with the oven rack in the middle of the oven. Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-30 minutes or until the center of the rolls is fully baked.
For the cream cheese frosting, we will mix together the room-temperature butter and softened cream cheese until light and smooth. Add in the vanilla extract. Then add in the powdered sugar and the green food coloring.
Once the cinnamon rolls have cooled for 10-15 minutes frost the top with the frosting. Let's not forget to add the Grinch's heart by placing a small heart on each roll.
Substitutions
In this section, we will offer you some substitutions that can be made to these Grincy Cinnamon Rolls.
Make them a vegan version by using plant-based milk and vegan egg substitutes in the dough. When it comes to the cream cheese frosting, replace the cream cheese and butter with dairy-free alternatives.
For a gluten-free option replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the dough.
For sugar-free alternatives replace the granulated and brown sugar that is used in the dough, and filling. With stevia, honey, monk fruit sweetener, or maple syrup.
For a healthier filling try replacing the cinnamon sugar filling with a mixture of honey and cinnamon. Or replace the filling altogether with a fruit compote made from berries, apples, or peaches.
How To Store
Storing Grinch cinnamon rolls is a straightforward process to ensure their continued freshness and deliciousness. After allowing the rolls to cool to room temperature. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them securely in plastic wrap.
If you plan to enjoy them within 1-2 days, keep them at room temperature in a cool dry place. However, for longer-term storage, such as up to 4-5 days. It's best to store them in the refrigerator.
You can also freeze the cinnamon rolls once they have fully cooled. I would recommend freezing without the cream cheese frosting on them. Just freeze the baked cinnamon rolls for up to 2-3 months.
Top Tips
Now for some tips to help make these delightful treats. To achieve a vibrant green color try using gel food coloring. The gel is more concentrated and will provide a bold hue.
Ensure your yeast is fresh or else the dough will not rise properly. Spread the filling out evenly to make sure every bite of your cinnamon rolls will be bursting with flavor.
When cutting the Grinch rolls make sure to use a sharp knife. This will prevent squishing or deforming the rolls while cutting. Unflavored dental floss will also work wonderful for cutting the rolls.
To avoid dry cinnamon rolls, don't overbake them. I like to keep a close eye on them as they bake. I also pay attention to the smell, as they get closer to being done you will notice a fragrant smell.
Questions And Answers
Now for some common questions about these Grinchy rolls.
You can achieve the green color by adding green food coloring to the dough during the mixing process. Start with a small amount and gradually add more until you achieve the desired shade.
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. This allows you to save time when making the rolls in the morning.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangular shape, Using a rolling pin helps ensure even thickness. Use a ruler to measure the dough to ¼ inch thickness.
After slicing the dough into individual rolls, place them close together in the baking dish. This prevents them from unraveling as they rise and bake. When rolling up the log of a cinnamon roll, pinch the seam closed. This will also help with the unraveling.
Ensure that the cream cheese and butter are softened at room temperature before mixing. Don't melt the butter or cream cheese. Using room temperature butter and cream cheese prevents lumps and results in a smoother frosting.
Closing
Incorporating a touch of whimsy into your holiday season has never been more delicious. Grinch cinnamon rolls, with their vibrant green color, delectable flavors, and that red heart.
These rolls are sure to warm your heart as you enjoy them with an all things Grinch themed breakfast. So grab that hot chocolate bomb and the story of how the Grinch stole Christmas.
And enjoy one of these delectable green cinnamon rolls that are topped with green cream cheese frosting and a heart shaped sprinkle. Or pin this recipe to enjoy at a later date.
More Delectable Roll Recipe
Grinch Cinnamon Rolls
Grinch cinnamon rolls are a delightful holiday treat inspired by the classic Dr. Seuss character, The Grinch. These festive rolls are typically made with sweet, warm cinnamon filling and green icing to mimic the Grinch's iconic green appearance. They're perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to your Christmas breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
Ingredients For Dough
- 8 Cups All Purpose Flour divided in half
- 4½ Teaspoons Yeast equals 2 packets
- 2 Cups Milk
- ⅔ Cups Granulated Sugar
- 7 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter cubed
- 1 Teaspoon Salt
- 4 Large Eggs
- 1 Tablespoon Green Food Coloring
Ingredients For Filling
- ½ Cup Unsalted Butter room temperature
- 2 Cups Brown Sugar packed
- 4 Teaspoons Ground Cinnamon
Cream Cheese Icing
- 8 Ounces Cream Cheese softened
- ½ Cup Unsalted Butter room temperature
- 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 2-2½ Cups Powdered Sugar
- 10 Drops Green Food Coloring
- 16 Candy Hearts
Instructions
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In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer add in 4 cups of the all purpose flour along with the yeast. Whisk these together and set aside.
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In a saucepan stir together the milk, sugar, butter, and salt. Over medium low heat, heat the mixture to 120-130℉
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Slowly add the milk mixture into the flour and yeast mixture. Either using a stand mixer that is fitted with a paddle attachment or use a hand mixer and a large bowl. Mix these ingredients together until all the milk has been added and all are combined together.
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Add one egg in at a time mixing until each of the eggs are added in.
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Slowly add the remaining four cups of flour to the batter. Add in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer. The rest will be added in when kneading happens.
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Add the food coloring to the dough and mix until the color is evenely distributed.
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Onto a clean work surface that has the remaining flour add the cinnamon roll dough.
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Knead in the remaining flour into the dough working in as much of the remaining flour as possible. You want the dough to spring back when pressed on.
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Spray a large mixing bowl with nonstick cooking spray, place the dough into the bowl turning to coat the dough with the cooking spray. Cover the bowl with a towel and place in a warm place. Let rise for 1 hour or until dough has doubled in size.
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Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and punch the dough down. Cover with a towel again and allow to rest for 10 minutes.
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Roll the dough out into a rectangular shape that is ¼ inch in thickness. Spread the room temperature butter evenly onto the dough.
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In a small bowl mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar on top of the butter. Gently press the cinnamon brown sugar into the butter, this will help when rolling teh dough up.
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Roll up the cinnamon roll dough by starting at the longer end of the rectangle. Rolling to form a log shape, pinch the seam of the dough to help seal the seam.
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Using a sharp knife cut the cinnamon roll log into 2-inch slices.
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Place the Grinch themed cinnamon rolls into a 12x15 baking dish that has been sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Leaving a bit of room next to each other for rising space. Cover with a towel and allow to rise for another 30 minutes.
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Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
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After the final rising time is up place the Grinch cinnamon rolls into the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes. Or until the center of the cinnamon rolls are fully cooked.
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Remove the cinnamon rolls to cool for 15 minutes before frosting the rolls.
Cream Cheese Frosting
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In a medium mixing bowl mix together the cream cheese and butter until combined. Add in the vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
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Add in one cup of powdered sugar at a time to the cream cheese and butter mixture. Doing so until you reach the desired consisitency you want for your frosting.
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Add in the 10 drops or more of green food coloring mixing until the coloring is evenly distributed into the frosting.
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Spread the green cream cheese frosting on top of the cinnamon rolls. Placing a candy heart on top of each cinnamon roll.
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Serve and enjoy.
Recipe Notes
The nutritional value is calculated by a data program for My Creative Manner. The value may vary depending on ingredients used as well as how many cinnamon rolls you end up with.
The thinner you roll the dough out the longer the roll you will have which will result in more cinnamon rolls. You can also cut the rolls in 1-inch slices instead of the 2-inch slices as stated in the recipe.
Matthew Goodchild
Omg these sound so good. Can’t wait to make these for Christmas for my daughter and family
Jennifer
These are so good, we also have a cookie monster cinnamon roll recipe that's amazing.