There’s nothing quite like the smell of warm Rhodes cinnamon rolls baking on a cozy weekend morning.
With one simple trick of pouring heavy cream over the top before baking, you can transform the frozen dough rolls into a soft, gooey treat that tastes bakery fresh.
It’s an easy method that makes holiday breakfasts and special occasions feel extra indulgent, giving you the best cinnamon rolls without all the work.
Recipe at a Glance
Prep: 5 min + rising time | Bake: 15-20 min | Difficulty: Easy
What it is: A simple method for baking Rhodes cinnamon rolls with heavy cream for an extra-soft, gooey texture that tastes like homemade.
Why you’ll love it: Perfect for holiday mornings, weekend brunch, or any time you want bakery-quality results with zero fuss.
How to make it: Arrange the frozen rolls in a baking dish, let them rise, pour heavy cream on top, and bake until golden and soft.
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Table of Contents
- Recipe at a Glance
- Why I Love using Frozen Cinnamon Rolls
- Recommended Kitchen Tools
- My Kitchen Tools Essentials
- Ingredients You’ll Need
- Substitutions and Variations
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Baking Directions for Rhodes Cinnamon Rolls
- Insider Tips from My Kitchen to Yours
- Storage & Prep Ahead Tips
- More Delicious Breakfast Cinnamon Rolls
- LOVE this recipe? SAVE it for Later!
- 📖 Recipe Card
- Recipe FAQ's
- Food Safety Tips:
- 💬 Comments
Why I Love using Frozen Cinnamon Rolls
- They’re quick, easy, and taste homemade with just a few simple tricks.
- There’s no need to make dough from scratch, and the results are soft, gooey, and perfect for busy mornings or holiday breakfasts.
- I know you’ll love this easy recipe as much as my family does. It’s a simple way to enjoy a warm, homemade treat without all the extra work.
Recommended Kitchen Tools
For a full list of kitchen tools used in this recipe, be sure to check the recipe card below. You can also browse my Favorite Kitchen Tools by clicking the photo below.
Check out my list...
My Kitchen Tools Essentials
Tools that will make your time easier and faster in the kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here's a quick overview of the ingredients for this recipe. For exact amounts and to easily shop for everything, click the Instacart button in the recipe card below to add the ingredients straight to your cart!
Substitutions and Variations
Use a different brand: Any brand of frozen cinnamon rolls will work, though Rhodes gives the softest, bakery-style texture.
Enhance the flavor: Sprinkle cinnamon sugar for extra warmth or add chocolate chips on top for a sweet, melty twist.
Upgrade the icing: Stir in a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to enhance the flavor of the cream cheese frosting.
Want to Bake from Scratch? If you’d rather start completely from scratch, try my Homemade Cinnamon Roll Recipe. It’s soft, fluffy, and perfect for when you want to bake the dough yourself.
This recipe has not been tested with other substitutions or variations. If you replace or add any ingredients, please let me know how it turned out in the comments below!
Step-by-Step Instructions
This section provides step-by-step photos and instructions to guide you through the recipe. For the complete printable version, scroll down to the recipe card below.
Step 1: Grease the baking dish then evenly fill with the cinnamon rolls.
Step 2: Cover the cinnamon rolls with plastic wrap and allow to rise.
Step 3: Allow the rolls rise for 3-5 hours until they have doubled in size.
Step 4: Measure heavy cream to add to the rolls.
Baking Directions for Rhodes Cinnamon Rolls
Step 5: Pour heavy cream over all the risen rolls.
Step 6: Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Step 7: Prepare the frosting that comes in the package of cinnamon rolls.
Step 8: Spread the frosting over the warm rolls then serve.
Insider Tips from My Kitchen to Yours
✔️ DO remove the casserole dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats.
❌ DO NOT skip the rising time or the rolls will bake up dense instead of fluffy.
Storage & Prep Ahead Tips
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let the rolls cool completely before sealing to prevent sogginess.
Freezer: Place baked and cooled rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw and Reheat: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours. Warm in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or cover with foil and heat in a 300°F oven until soft.
Prep Ahead Tips: Assemble the rolls the night before by placing them in the baking dish, covering with plastic wrap, and letting them rise overnight in the refrigerator. In the morning, pour heavy cream over the top and bake as directed.
More Delicious Breakfast Cinnamon Rolls
This easy method is perfect breakfast idea for weekend brunches, holiday celebrations, or any morning when you want something special without a lot of prep. If you love serving warm pastries for breakfast, here are a few more delicious ideas to try:
- Cinnamon Rolls from Frozen Bread Dough
- Breakfast Casserole with Cinnamon Rolls
- French Toast Cinnamon Rolls, and even my Cinnabon Copycat Recipe.
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📖 Recipe Card
Rhodes Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Spray a baking pan with cooking spray. Place the frozen rolls evenly on the pan and cover with plastic wrap that has also been sprayed to prevent sticking.
- Let the rolls rise for 3 to 5 hours, or until doubled in size. Rising time will vary depending on the temperature of your kitchen. Avoid over-proofing, as the rolls will continue to rise while baking.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Remove the casserole dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats.
- Remove the plastic wrap and pour the heavy cream over all the rolls.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until golden brown.
- Knead the thawed frosting packets gently before opening, then spread the frosting over the warm rolls.
Nutrition
Notes
Tips
- Let the rolls rise fully before baking for the best soft and fluffy texture.
- If your kitchen is on the cooler side, the rolls may need up to 6 hours to fully rise. In a warmer environment, they may be ready sooner, so keep an eye on their size rather than just the clock.
- For added flavor, sprinkle cinnamon sugar or chocolate chips on top before baking.
- Assemble the rolls the night before, cover, and let them rise overnight in the refrigerator.
- In the morning, pour on the heavy cream and bake for fresh, warm rolls with no extra prep.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze baked and cooled rolls for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
- Assemble the rolls the night before and let them rise in the refrigerator, then bake in the morning for fresh, warm rolls with no prep.
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Recipe FAQ's
To view the answers, simply click on the down arrow (⬇) next to each question. If you have any other questions not answered here, please leave a comment!
Place the covered rolls in a warm, draft-free spot, like inside an unheated oven with the light on. The gentle warmth helps them rise more quickly. You can also place a shallow pan of hot water on the lower rack to create a warm, humid environment that speeds up the process.
Place the frozen rolls in a greased baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator. For a quicker option, leave them at room temperature in a warm, draft-free spot until they’ve fully thawed and risen, usually 3 to 5 hours.
Place the thawed and risen rolls in a greased baking dish, pour heavy cream over the top (if desired), and bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown and baked through. Let them cool slightly before adding the icing.
Food Safety Tips:
- Baked goods are done when they reach their recommended internal temperature—usually between 190–210°F (88–99°C), depending on the type. Always check the recipe for exact guidance.
- Avoid cross-contamination by using separate utensils for raw meat and cooked foods.
- Use separate utensils and surfaces for raw ingredients, especially eggs, to prevent cross-contamination.
- Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw meat.
- Refrigerate or consume food promptly; don’t leave it at room temperature for extended periods.
- Keep a close eye on food while cooking to prevent accidents.
- Choose oils with a high smoking point to minimize the release of harmful compounds.
- Maintain good ventilation when using a gas stove to ensure safety and comfort.
Carol Hennecken says
I definitely will!!
Carol Hennecken says
How much heavy cream?
Lois says
Thank you for catching that! I updated the recipe card to show 1 cup of heavy cream! I hope you'll try the recipe and come back and let me how you enjoyed it!