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–+ servings
Benjamin

King Cake Cinnamon Rolls

Transform a simple tube of cinnamon rolls into a festive Mardi Gras treat that's soft, sweet, and decorated in traditional purple, green, and gold.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 rolls
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the cinnamon roll base
  • 1 tube Tube of refrigerated cinnamon roll dough
  • 4 tbsp Unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup Brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tbsp Ground cinnamon
For the frosting
  • 4 oz Cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup Powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp Heavy cream or milk
For decoration
  • Purple sanding sugar to taste
  • Green sanding sugar to taste
  • Gold sanding sugar to taste
  • 1 small Plastic baby figurine (optional) for tradition

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • whisk or spoon
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

Prepare
  1. Unroll the cinnamon roll dough. For larger rolls, press two together or flatten slightly.
  2. Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until a paste forms. Spread thinly over the dough.
  3. Roll up the dough tightly. Place in pan, barely touching.
  4. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and set.
  5. Prepare frosting: Whip cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and cream until smooth.
  6. Cool rolls 5 minutes, then spread frosting and sprinkle with colored sugars in sections.
  7. Hide baby figurine inside one roll if using.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 4gFat: 14g

Notes

For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter and almond milk. Store in airtight container for up to 2 days.
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