You've likely encountered cinnamon rolls before, but have you ever seen them transformed into a stunning wreath? This Swedish-inspired creation elevates the humble cinnamon roll to a centerpiece-worthy treat. By arranging store-bought rolls in a circular pattern and adding a few special touches, you'll create a dessert that's both visually impressive and incredibly indulgent. The combination of gooey cinnamon rolls, maple syrup, and cream cheese frosting promises a flavor explosion that'll have your guests reaching for seconds. But there's more to this sweet masterpiece than meets the eye…
Key Takeaways
- Store-bought cinnamon rolls are arranged in a circular wreath shape for a festive appearance.
- A mixture of maple syrup, brown sugar, and cinnamon is drizzled over the rolls before baking.
- The wreath is baked at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until golden brown.
- Cream cheese frosting is made by combining softened cream cheese with the included icing.
- The frosting is generously applied to the warm wreath, creating a gooey and visually appealing finish.
History
The origins of cinnamon rolls can be traced back to Sweden, where they're known as "kanelbullar." These sweet treats first appeared in the 1920s, quickly becoming a beloved part of Swedish culture.
From there, the popularity of cinnamon rolls spread throughout Europe and eventually made their way to North America, where they've become a staple in bakeries and homes alike.
You'll find that the modern cinnamon roll wreath is a creative twist on the traditional shape. This adaptation likely emerged as bakers sought to make their creations more visually appealing, especially during holiday seasons.
The wreath shape not only looks festive but also allows for easy sharing, making it perfect for gatherings.
As you explore the history of cinnamon rolls, you'll discover that the addition of cream cheese frosting is a relatively recent innovation. This rich, tangy topping became popular in the United States during the mid-20th century, adding a new dimension of flavor to the classic cinnamon roll.
Today, the combination of warm, gooey cinnamon rolls and creamy frosting has become an iconic pairing that continues to delight people around the world.
Recipe
This festive Cinnamon Roll Wreath with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a special weekend breakfast, this impressive dish combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar with a rich cream cheese frosting.
Creating this eye-catching wreath is surprisingly simple, using store-bought cinnamon rolls as a base. The addition of maple syrup and extra cinnamon enhances the flavor, while arranging the rolls in a circular pattern transforms them into a beautiful centerpiece. The cream cheese frosting adds a luxurious finishing touch, making this dish a true crowd-pleaser.
- 1 can (16.3 oz / 462 g) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) maple syrup
- 1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar
- 2 tsp (10 g) ground cinnamon
- 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, softened
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Separate the cinnamon rolls and arrange them in a circular pattern on a greased baking sheet, leaving a hole in the center to form a wreath shape.
In a small bowl, mix the maple syrup, brown sugar, and cinnamon, then drizzle this mixture over the arranged rolls. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
While baking, beat the cream cheese with the icing from the can until smooth. Once the wreath is baked and slightly cooled, drizzle with the cream cheese frosting.
For best results, allow the cinnamon rolls to come to room temperature before baking to ensure even rising. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of maple syrup and brown sugar.
To make serving easier, place a small bowl in the center of the wreath for dipping sauces or extra frosting. Keep an eye on your wreath during baking, as oven temperatures may vary, to prevent over-browning.
Cooking Steps
To create your cinnamon roll wreath, you'll start by preheating your oven to 350°F and arranging the rolls in a circular pattern on a greased baking sheet.
Next, you'll mix the maple syrup, brown sugar, and cinnamon, drizzling this sweet concoction over the arranged rolls before baking for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
While the wreath bakes, you'll prepare the cream cheese frosting, which you'll drizzle over the slightly cooled rolls to complete this festive treat.
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F
Preparation is key when making this delightful Cinnamon Roll Wreath. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your cinnamon rolls bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color.
While your oven's heating up, take the time to gather all your ingredients and tools. You'll need a baking sheet, a small bowl for mixing the syrup, and a larger bowl for the cream cheese frosting.
If you're using a conventional oven, place the rack in the center position for optimal heat distribution. For those with convection ovens, you might want to lower the temperature by 25°F to prevent over-browning.
It's important to let your oven fully preheat before putting in the cinnamon roll wreath. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on your oven's efficiency.
Use this time to prepare your baking sheet by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. By ensuring your oven's at the right temperature, you're setting the stage for a perfectly baked cinnamon roll wreath.
Step 2. Arrange Rolls in Wreath Shape
With your oven preheating, it's time to create the wreath shape. Start by opening the can of refrigerated cinnamon rolls and carefully separating them. You'll want to handle these gently to maintain their shape.
Next, arrange the rolls in a circular pattern on a greased baking sheet. As you place each roll, make sure they're touching slightly to ensure they'll stick together during baking. Leave a hole in the center to form the classic wreath shape.
Once you've positioned all the rolls, take a step back and assess your work. If needed, adjust any rolls that seem out of place to create a uniform circle. This attention to detail will result in a more visually appealing final product.
Remember, the wreath shape isn't just for aesthetics; it also allows for even baking and easy serving. If you're feeling creative, you can experiment with different arrangements, like a spiral or a figure-eight, but the traditional circle works best for a wreath effect.
With your rolls arranged, you're now ready to move on to the next step in creating your delicious cinnamon roll wreath.
Step 3. Mix Syrup and Spices
The next step's sweet and spicy combination will take your cinnamon roll wreath to new heights. In a small bowl, you'll mix together the maple syrup, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. This mixture is the secret to creating a rich, caramelized flavor that'll make your cinnamon rolls irresistible.
Start by measuring out 1/4 cup of maple syrup and pouring it into the bowl. Next, add 1/4 cup of brown sugar, making sure to break up any lumps. Finally, sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon.
Using a whisk or fork, blend these ingredients thoroughly until you've achieved a smooth, uniform consistency. The result should be a syrupy mixture with a deep amber color and a fragrant aroma.
Once you've prepared this sweet and spicy concoction, you'll drizzle it generously over the arranged cinnamon rolls. This step is crucial as it infuses the rolls with extra flavor and creates a deliciously sticky glaze during baking.
Don't worry if some of the mixture pools at the bottom of the wreath; it'll be absorbed as the rolls bake, resulting in perfectly caramelized edges.
Step 4. Bake for 20-25 Minutes
Now that you've drizzled the sweet and spicy mixture over your cinnamon roll wreath, it's time to bake. Carefully slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven, positioning it in the center rack for even heat distribution. Set your timer for 20 minutes, but don't wander too far from the kitchen. You'll want to keep a close eye on your creation as it transforms.
As the wreath bakes, you'll notice a delightful aroma filling your home. The rolls will begin to puff up and turn a beautiful golden brown.
Around the 20-minute mark, start checking for doneness. You're looking for a rich, caramel color on the tops and edges. If they're not quite there, give them an additional 2-5 minutes, but be cautious not to overbake. The sugar mixture can quickly go from caramelized to burnt if left too long.
Once your wreath reaches that perfect golden-brown hue, remove it from the oven using oven mitts. Place the baking sheet on a heat-resistant surface and let it cool for about 5 minutes before adding the frosting.
Step 5. Make Cream Cheese Frosting
Anticipation builds as you prepare the final, crowning touch for your cinnamon roll wreath. The cream cheese frosting will transform your creation from delightful to irresistible.
Begin by taking the cream cheese out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before you plan to make the frosting, allowing it to soften at room temperature. This step ensures a smoother, more easily spreadable consistency.
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the icing that came with your canned cinnamon rolls. Using an electric mixer or a whisk, beat the mixture until it's smooth and free of lumps.
If you find the frosting too thick, you can add a teaspoon of milk at a time until you reach your desired consistency. For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon.
Once your cinnamon roll wreath has cooled slightly, it's time to apply the frosting. You can either drizzle it artfully over the wreath or spread it generously, covering every nook and cranny.
The warm rolls will cause the frosting to melt slightly, creating a deliciously gooey texture.
Final Thoughts
Three key takeaways make this Cinnamon Roll Wreath a standout recipe. First, it's incredibly easy to prepare, using store-bought cinnamon rolls as a base. This time-saving shortcut allows you to create an impressive dish without hours of work.
Second, the wreath's visual appeal makes it perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings. Its unique shape and presentation will wow your guests and make you look like a baking pro.
Lastly, the versatility of this recipe allows for customization to suit your taste preferences. You can experiment with different flavors by adding nuts, dried fruit, or even chocolate chips to the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Don't be afraid to get creative with the frosting, either. You might try adding a touch of orange zest or vanilla extract for a subtle flavor boost.
Remember, the key to success with this recipe is in the presentation. Take your time arranging the rolls and applying the frosting for a picture-perfect result.
With these tips in mind, you'll be well-equipped to create a delicious and visually stunning Cinnamon Roll Wreath that's sure to become a new favorite.
