What does adding heavy cream do to cinnamon rolls?

Heavy cream adds moisture and richness. When baked, it combines with sugar and cinnamon to create a caramel-like sauce that soaks into the rolls, making them soft, gooey, and bakery-quality.

What is Cinnabon's secret ingredient?

Cinnabon uses a special variety called Makara cinnamon, known for its bold aroma and sweetness. Another unconfirmed secret? The technique of creating extra moisture—similar to the effect of baking cinnamon rolls with heavy cream.

What is a dirty cinnamon roll?

A dirty cinnamon roll is a twist on the classic that’s packed with extra gooeyness. It often includes cream, coffee or espresso, double the sugar, and a rich glaze that melts deep into every layer.

How much heavy cream on cinnamon rolls (Reddit users recommend)?

Most Reddit bakers suggest using ¾ to 1 cup of heavy cream for a standard 9x13 tray. For jumbo rolls, some go up to 1¼ cups, especially when using homemade dough.

How much does 1 cup of heavy cream make?

When whipped, 1 cup of heavy cream becomes about 2 cups of whipped topping. When baked, it reduces and thickens, forming a rich base layer under the rolls—enhancing both flavor and texture.

How to make cinnamon rolls more moist?

Use heavy cream, avoid overbaking, apply icing while warm, and cover with foil early in baking. These steps ensure soft centers and gooey edges without compromising structure.

Cinnamon Rolls With Heavy Cream The Best Gooey Ever (2025)

Ingredients

Scale

1 batch cinnamon roll dough (or 1 can store-bought)
¾ to 1 cup heavy cream
½ cup brown sugar
2 tsp cinnamon
Optional: cream cheese frosting

Instructions

Instructions :

Preheat oven to 350°F.
Place rolls in greased baking dish.
Pour cream over rolls.
Cover and bake 25 minutes, uncover and bake 10–15 more.
Let rest 10 minutes before icing.

Notes

Use full-fat heavy cream for the best gooey texture. Optional frosting can be added once cooled slightly.

Author: Mike
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 roll
Calories: 350
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 250mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: cinnamon rolls, heavy cream, gooey, breakfast, sweet