Just Like Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls

I’ve been known to choose my flights based on which connecting airports have a Cinnabon. We don’t have one in my city, so if I’m lucky enough to have a layover anywhere near that intoxicating, ooey-gooey cinnamon goodness, then give me a good book, some hand sanitizer and a plastic fork – I’m all in.

I’m also all about starting new traditions for my little family of three, and one of them has been kicking off our Christmas celebration at our home on Christmas Eve morning before we travel to Grandpa & Grandma’s house.  Santa hits our house early, so our December 24th begins with excited giggles from our girl as she runs down the stairs and we all rip open our presents.  After that, it’s cinnamon roll time!

I discovered Lauren’s Latest Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls recipe last year and they’re the closest I’ve ever gotten to that airport goodness at home.

The process starts the night before with the dough.  After mixing and kneading it takes 1-2 hours to rise before you can roll it out, add your filling and cut your rolls, so be sure to allow yourself enough time for that.  Once your rolls are cut and placed in a parchment paper and butter-lined dish they need to rise again until they double in size.  I seal my pan with cling wrap, then top with a towel and let them rise overnight in my cold oven with the oven light turned on – it works perfectly!  On Christmas Eve morning I bake those puppies up, add the icing and we dig in.

“Just Like Cinnabon” Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

These cinnamon rolls are time-consuming but absolutely worth it. They’re the perfect addition to our Christmas Eve morning family tradition!