What if I told you tender homemade cinnamon rolls could be ready in no time using Bisquick and a simple baking method? This easy recipe uses just a few ingredients, including sweet cinnamon and soft dough, to create a family favorite treat. Save this idea for a quick weeknight dessert or breakfast option.

cinnamon rolls on a white plate with the title text overlay reads easy bisquick cinnamon rolls

Introduction

Imagine the warmth and comfort of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, made effortlessly with everyday ingredients. The combination of soft, fluffy dough, sweet cinnamon sugar, and the convenience of Bisquick mix creates a treat that’s both indulgent and easy to make. This recipe for Easy Bisquick Cinnamon Rolls is perfect for those who want to impress their family and friends with a delicious, homemade dessert without spending hours in the kitchen. The best part? It requires minimal effort and uses ingredients you likely have on hand, making it a great way to get creative in the kitchen with what you already have.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The use of Bisquick mix simplifies the process of making cinnamon rolls from scratch, as it eliminates the need to mix and measure various dry ingredients. The addition of cinnamon and sugar provides a perfect balance of flavors that is hard to resist.
• Ease of preparation: With Bisquick, the preparation time is significantly reduced. You can focus on the fun parts of making cinnamon rolls, like spreading the butter and cinnamon mixture and rolling the dough, without the hassle of making the dough from scratch.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite the ease of preparation, these cinnamon rolls turn out beautifully and taste like they were made from a complicated, traditional recipe. The Bisquick mix helps to ensure that the dough rises nicely and has a light, airy texture.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for these Easy Bisquick Cinnamon Rolls include Bisquick mix, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, butter, and an egg for the egg wash. For the filling, you’ll need more butter and cinnamon sugar. Practical substitutions can be made for some ingredients, such as using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a slightly different flavor profile or replacing the egg wash with milk for a dairy-based alternative. However, the results might vary slightly with each substitution.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, prepare your workspace by clearing a large area for rolling out the dough. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the filling.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the Bisquick mix with the ingredients called for on the box (usually water or milk and an egg), and mix until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it a few times until it becomes smooth and pliable.
3. Step 3: Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Then, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the butter, making sure to stay within the borders.
4. Step 4: Roll the dough into a tight log, starting from the long side. Cut the log into 8-10 equal pieces. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each roll to allow for expansion during baking. Brush the tops with an egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) for a golden glaze.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to not overmix the dough when combining the Bisquick mix with the liquid ingredients, as this can lead to tough rolls. Also, keep the butter at room temperature for easier spreading.
• For an extra sweet treat, you can drizzle the baked cinnamon rolls with a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk after they have cooled slightly.
• Avoid overbaking, as the rolls can quickly become dry and hard. They are done when golden brown and still slightly soft to the touch.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking these cinnamon rolls is 375°F (190°C). The baking time will depend on the size of your rolls but typically ranges from 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them after 12 minutes, as oven temperatures can vary. The rolls are done when they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in these cinnamon rolls comes from the cinnamon sugar on top and the slightly caramelized bottom. To achieve this, make sure the rolls are not overcrowded on the baking sheet, allowing air to circulate around them. Also, don’t overbake, as this can make the rolls hard instead of crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To make the rolling and cutting process easier, chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes after rolling it out and before spreading the cinnamon sugar mixture.
• For a shortcut, you can prepare the dough and roll it out the night before, then refrigerate it overnight and bake it in the morning for freshly baked cinnamon rolls.
• Use parchment paper or a silicone mat on your baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent the rolls from sticking.

Storage Tips

• Leftover cinnamon rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the rolls in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• For reheating, thaw frozen rolls overnight in the refrigerator, then bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a few seconds, but be cautious not to overheat.
• The best containers for storing cinnamon rolls are those that are airtight and can keep moisture out, such as plastic or metal containers with tight-fitting lids.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting these cinnamon rolls, they can be beautifully packaged in a variety of ways. Place the rolls in a decorative tin or a gift box lined with parchment paper. You can also wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a gift bag. Adding a ribbon or a gift tag with a personal message makes the gift even more special.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a unique twist on the traditional flavor.
• Creative toppings: After the rolls have cooled slightly, you can drizzle them with a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk, or sprinkle them with chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
• Ingredient swaps: For a gluten-free version, you can experiment with gluten-free Bisquick mix or make your own gluten-free dough from scratch. Keep in mind that gluten-free baking can be more challenging, and results may vary.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your rolls turn out too dense, it might be because the dough was overmixed. If they’re too dry, they might have been overbaked.
• Ingredient replacements: When substituting ingredients, especially in gluten-free baking, the texture and flavor can be affected. It’s a good idea to test a small batch before making a large quantity.
• Over/undercooking signs: Overcooked rolls will be hard and dark brown, while undercooked rolls will be soft and pale. Adjust your baking time accordingly based on your oven’s performance.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the dough before baking or freeze the baked rolls for up to 2 months.
• Is it gluten-free? The original recipe using Bisquick mix is not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with gluten-free alternatives for the Bisquick mix.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to adjust the baking time slightly if you’re baking more rolls at once.

Conclusion

Making Easy Bisquick Cinnamon Rolls is a fun and rewarding baking experience that yields delicious results with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and toppings to make the recipe your own. Share your creations with friends and family, and enjoy the warmth and comfort that freshly baked cinnamon rolls bring to any gathering. Happy baking!