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Funfetti Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

4.8 from 90 reviews

These Funfetti Cinnamon Rolls combine the classic cinnamon swirl with colorful confetti sprinkles, creating a festive and delicious treat perfect for any celebration or a fun breakfast. Soft, fluffy, and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, these rolls offer a delightful twist on a beloved classic.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough

  • ½ cup warm water (about 110°F)
  • ½ cup whole milk (room temperature)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons dry active yeast
  • ¼ cup + 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • ½ cup confetti sprinkles

Cinnamon Sugar Filling

  • ⅓ cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • ⅓ cup dark brown sugar (packed)
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch kosher salt

Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
  • Pinch kosher salt
  • Additional confetti sprinkles, to garnish

Instructions

  1. Activate yeast: Sprinkle the dry active yeast over warm water and milk (both at about 110°F). Add 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar and stir gently. Let sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes bubbly and active.
  2. Mix dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together the activated yeast mixture, remaining sugar (¼ cup), egg, and egg yolk. Whisk salt into the flour. Add 2 cups of flour to the mixer bowl, then use the dough hook attachment to combine ingredients on low speed.
  3. Knead dough: Gradually add 1 cup more flour to the mixture and continue kneading on low. Add the softened butter one tablespoon at a time while kneading. Finally, add the remaining 1 cup of flour and knead until the dough is smooth and pulls away cleanly from the bowl sides. Mix in the confetti sprinkles evenly throughout the dough.
  4. First rise: Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Let it rest at room temperature for about 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in volume.
  5. Prepare dough for rolling: Punch down the risen dough gently to release air. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and roll it into a 20 x 14-inch rectangle.
  6. Add filling: Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough. In a separate bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon with a pinch of salt. Sprinkle this cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the butter layer, gently pressing it into the dough.
  7. Shape rolls: Starting from the longer side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal slices and place them side by side in a greased 9 x 12-inch baking pan. Cover with plastic wrap and let the rolls rise at room temperature for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
  8. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and bake the cinnamon rolls for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and an internal temperature of 185°F is reached. Let the rolls cool for 5 minutes after baking.
  9. Prepare frosting: Beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar and continue beating until the mixture is smooth and thickened. Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls.
  10. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle additional confetti sprinkles on top of the frosted rolls for a festive touch. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use fresh confetti sprinkles that are safe for baking to prevent melting or color bleeding.
  • Allow the dough to fully rise for the best texture and fluffiness in your cinnamon rolls.
  • You can prepare these rolls the night before by completing the shaping step, refrigerating overnight, and baking the next day.
  • Warm rolls slightly before serving for the best experience.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Keywords: Funfetti cinnamon rolls, cinnamon rolls recipe, funfetti dessert, cream cheese frosting cinnamon rolls, festive breakfast recipe