Cinnamon rolls are an absolute treat—fluffy, sweet, and aromatic. But what makes them even more irresistible is the frosting. However, many people don’t enjoy cream cheese-based frosting or don’t have it on hand. So, how can you still enjoy a delicious, creamy frosting without cream cheese? The answer lies in a rich, buttery frosting that perfectly complements the cinnamon rolls without overpowering them.
In this post, we’ll explore a cinnamon rolls frosting recipe that’s smooth, sweet, and creamy—without the cream cheese. Get ready to discover how to make the best cinnamon rolls frosting, as well as tips, alternatives, and serving suggestions to elevate your baking experience.
Ingredients List for the Frosting
Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious frosting, along with a few suggestions for substitutions:
- Powdered Sugar (1 ½ cups) – This sweetens the frosting and helps it achieve that perfect, creamy texture.
- Unsalted Butter (¼ cup, softened) – The base of your frosting, providing richness and smoothness. You can substitute with margarine for a non-dairy option.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the frosting. You can experiment with almond extract for a different twist.
- Milk (3-4 tbsp) – Helps achieve the perfect consistency. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try almond or oat milk.
- Salt (a pinch) – Balances out the sweetness of the frosting, ensuring a perfect flavor profile.
- Maple Syrup (2 tbsp) – Optional, but it adds a rich depth of flavor, complementing the cinnamon rolls beautifully. You can substitute with honey or agave syrup.
Substitutions:
- Butter Substitute: Use coconut oil or vegetable shortening for a dairy-free option.
- Milk Alternatives: Use plant-based milk like soy, almond, or oat milk if you’re following a dairy-free diet.
- Sweetener Swap: If you prefer a less sugary option, you can try using a sugar substitute like Stevia or Erythritol, keeping in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
Timing
- Preparation Time: 5-10 minutes
- Cooking Time: None
- Total Time: 10 minutes (which is faster than the average frosting recipe)
This frosting is incredibly quick and easy to make, taking just about 10 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for those moments when you want a delicious treat but don’t have a lot of time to spare.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Whisk the Butter
Start by whisking the softened unsalted butter in a medium-sized bowl until it becomes smooth and creamy. Make sure the butter is at room temperature to make this step easier.
Step 2: Add the Powdered Sugar
Gradually sift the powdered sugar into the butter, a little at a time, to avoid clumping. Mix until fully incorporated. The frosting should start to take shape as a thick paste.
Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract
Stir in the vanilla extract for that aromatic, sweet undertone that pairs beautifully with cinnamon rolls.
Step 4: Add Milk Slowly
Pour in the milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency. The frosting should be smooth, spreadable, and creamy, but not too runny. Add more milk if necessary to reach the right texture.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Give the frosting a taste. If you like a bit of extra sweetness, add a little more powdered sugar. For a more buttery flavor, a touch more vanilla or butter works wonders.
Step 6: Spread Over Cinnamon Rolls
Once your frosting is ready, it’s time to spread it generously over your cinnamon rolls. Make sure the rolls are slightly warm for the frosting to melt beautifully into them!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content for one serving of this cinnamon rolls frosting recipe (about 2 tablespoons of frosting):
- Calories: 150-170 kcal
- Fat: 7-8 grams
- Saturated Fat: 4-5 grams
- Carbohydrates: 23-26 grams
- Sugar: 22-24 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Sodium: 20 mg
Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
Please note that these values can vary depending on your ingredient choices (such as using margarine or almond milk).
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you’re looking to make this recipe a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor, consider the following alternatives:
1. Butter Substitute:
Swap out the butter for unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt to reduce the fat content.
2. Sugar Substitute:
For a lower-calorie version, substitute stevia or erythritol for the powdered sugar. This will reduce the sugar content significantly.
3. Milk Alternative:
Opt for almond milk or coconut milk to make the recipe dairy-free.
4. Add Flaxseed:
Incorporate ground flaxseeds to add some fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
These small changes can make a big difference for those watching their sugar or fat intake.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve perfected the frosting, here are a few ways to serve it:
- Classic Cinnamon Rolls: Of course, the best way to enjoy this frosting is with warm, homemade cinnamon rolls. The frosting will melt into the rolls, creating a gooey, sweet layer.
- Danish Pastries: Try spreading this frosting on Danish pastries for a sweet, decadent treat.
- Cakes or Cupcakes: This frosting is a great topping for cakes and cupcakes—especially cinnamon-flavored ones.
- Pancakes or Waffles: Drizzle over pancakes or waffles for an extra indulgent breakfast.
- Apple Slices: For a healthier option, spread a bit of frosting over apple slices for a simple yet satisfying snack.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making frosting may seem straightforward, but there are a few mistakes you should avoid to ensure the perfect result:
1. Using Cold Butter:
Cold butter will not mix well with powdered sugar, leaving you with a lumpy frosting. Always ensure the butter is softened to room temperature.
2. Not Sifting the Powdered Sugar:
Failing to sift the powdered sugar can result in a gritty texture. Always sift to ensure a smooth, creamy frosting.
3. Overmixing:
Whisking for too long can cause the frosting to become too airy and fluffy, which may make it harder to spread. Mix just until everything is incorporated.
4. Not Adjusting Consistency:
If your frosting is too thick, it can be difficult to spread. Always add milk gradually to adjust the consistency.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
If you happen to have any frosting leftover, here’s how to store it:
- Storage: Keep your frosting in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
- Refrigeration: You can refrigerate the frosting for up to 1 week. Make sure to allow it to come to room temperature before using it.
- Freezing: You can freeze the frosting for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s stored in a well-sealed container.
To maintain freshness and consistency, always give it a good stir before using after storing.
Conclusion
In this post, we’ve explored a rich and creamy cinnamon rolls frosting recipe without cream cheese. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a frosting that perfectly complements your cinnamon rolls, Danish pastries, or even cakes. Try out the recipe, share your results in the comments, and subscribe for more mouthwatering recipes like this one!
FAQs
1. Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the frosting ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just bring it back to room temperature before using.
2. Can I use a hand mixer instead of whisking by hand?
Absolutely! A hand mixer or stand mixer will work great and make the process even easier.
3. How do I make the frosting thicker or thinner?
If the frosting is too thin, add more powdered sugar. If it’s too thick, gradually add more milk until you achieve the desired consistency.
4. Can I make the frosting without butter?
Yes, you can substitute butter with coconut oil or margarine for a dairy-free option.
Print
Cinnamon Rolls Frosting Recipe Without Cream Cheese
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup frosting (about 6–8 rolls) 1x
Description
This creamy, smooth cinnamon rolls frosting is made without cream cheese—perfect for those seeking a rich, buttery alternative with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3–4 tbsp milk (dairy or plant-based)
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp maple syrup (optional)
- Optional substitutions:
- Margarine or coconut oil instead of butter
- Almond, oat, or soy milk instead of regular milk
- Honey or agave instead of maple syrup
- Stevia or erythritol as sugar alternative
Instructions
- Whisk the softened butter in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually sift in powdered sugar, mixing until fully combined into a thick paste.
- Add vanilla extract and stir to incorporate the flavor.
- Slowly add milk, 1 tbsp at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or flavor by adding more powdered sugar, vanilla, or butter as needed.
- Spread generously over warm cinnamon rolls for best results.
Notes
Make sure butter is at room temperature and powdered sugar is sifted for a smooth result. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temp for 2-3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Frosting
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: Baking
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: cinnamon roll frosting, no cream cheese, butter frosting, easy glaze, cinnamon topping
