Cake Mix Cinnamon Rolls Hack
If you love cinnamon rolls but don’t want to deal with complicated dough, this Cake Mix Cinnamon Rolls Hack is the perfect solution. With just a few pantry ingredients and a box of cake mix, you can create soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls that taste like they came straight from a bakery.
This hack is perfect for beginner bakers, busy mornings, or when you simply want a quick sweet treat. This cake mix helps create a tender, fluffy dough while the cinnamon sugar filling gives you that classic warm cinnamon roll flavor everyone loves.
This recipe is also very flexible. You can drizzle icing, add cream cheese frosting, or even sprinkle some cinnamon candy crumb topping on top to make them extra special.
Ingredients
For the Dough
• 1 box vanilla cake mix
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast
• 1 cup warm water
For the Filling
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup melted butter
Optional Topping
• Vanilla glaze or cream cheese frosting
• Powdered sugar
• Extra cinnamon sugar
• Cinnamon Candy Crumb Topping
• Cinnamon Candy Crumb Topping
Instructions
1. Make the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, flour, and instant yeast. Add the warm water and mix until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Let the Dough Rest
Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rest in a warm place for about 30-45 minutes, or until slightly puffed.
3. Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon.
Roll the dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Spread the melted butter evenly across the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top.
4. Roll and Slice
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut into 12 even rolls using a knife or dental floss.
5. Bake
Place the rolls into a greased baking dish and bake at 180 °C (350°F) for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Add the Toppings
Let the cinnamon rolls cool slightly, then drizzle with vanilla glaze or cream cheese frosting. For extra flavor, you can also sprinkle cinnamon candy crumb topping or powdered sugar on top.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Cake Mix Cinnamon Rolls
• Use warm water (not hot) so the yeast activated properly.
• Don’t over-flour the dough or the rolls may become dense.
• Use dental floss to cut clean cinnamon roll slices.
• Bake until just golden to keep the rolls soft.
FAQ
1. Can I use any cake mix flavor?
Yes! Vanilla cake mix works best, but you can also try spice cake mix or butter cake mix for extra flavor.
2. Do I still need yeast if I use cake mix?
Yes. The yeast helps the dough rise and gives cinnamon rolls their soft, fluffy texture.
3. Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes. After shaping the rolls, cover and refrigerate them overnight. The next day, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
4. Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?
Yes. You can freeze baked cinnamon rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
5. How do I keep cinnamon rolls soft?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Warm them slightly before eating for the best texture.