Funfetti Cinnamon Rolls

Funfetti Cinnamon Rolls are a colorful and festive twist on the traditional cinnamon roll, bringing together soft, buttery dough, a sweet cinnamon swirl, and rainbow sprinkles for a touch of fun in every bite. Finished with a smooth cream cheese frosting and extra sprinkles on top, these rolls are perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or anytime you want to brighten up your breakfast or brunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for celebrations and birthdays
• Soft, fluffy rolls with a tender crumb
• Classic cinnamon sugar filling with a colorful twist
• Easy to make ahead
• Fun for kids and adults alike
• Customizable with different frostings or sprinkle types
• Delicious cream cheese frosting
• Makes a great weekend or holiday brunch treat
• Simple ingredients
• Instagram-worthy presentation

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Dough

• Warm milk
• Active dry yeast
• Granulated sugar
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Salt
• Rainbow sprinkles (use jimmies for best results)

Filling

• Unsalted butter, softened
• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon

Frosting

• Cream cheese, softened
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Milk or heavy cream
• Extra rainbow sprinkles for topping (optional)

Directions

1. Activate the yeast: In a bowl, mix warm milk and a little sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2. Make the dough: In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the remaining sugar, eggs, butter, vanilla, and yeast mixture. Add flour and salt gradually until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth.
3. Add sprinkles: Gently knead in the sprinkles until evenly distributed.
4. Let it rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
5. Prepare the filling: Mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
6. Assemble the rolls: Roll out the dough into a rectangle (approx. 12×18 inches). Spread the filling evenly. Roll up tightly from the long side and slice into 12 equal rolls.
7. Second rise: Place rolls in a greased 9×13 baking dish. Cover and let rise again for about 30 minutes.
8. Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes or until lightly golden.
9. Make the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Thin with milk or cream if needed.
10. Frost and serve: Spread the frosting over warm rolls and top with extra sprinkles if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 rolls
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Rising Time: 90 minutes
• Total Time: About 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Overnight Rolls: Prepare and shape the rolls the night before. Refrigerate and bake the next morning after letting them come to room temperature.
• Different Frostings: Swap cream cheese frosting for vanilla glaze, chocolate drizzle, or even marshmallow fluff.
• Add-ins: Try adding mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the filling.
• Mini Rolls: Slice smaller for bite-size versions perfect for parties.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Microwave rolls for 15–30 seconds until warm. If refrigerated, let sit at room temp for 10 minutes before reheating.

FAQs

How do I keep the sprinkles from melting into the dough?

Use jimmies (the longer, waxier type of sprinkle) and add them gently after kneading to avoid bleeding color.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble them the night before, refrigerate, then bake in the morning after letting them rise at room temperature.

What kind of yeast should I use?

Active dry yeast works well, but instant yeast can also be used without proofing—just mix it into the dry ingredients.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes. After the first rise, shape the rolls and freeze. Thaw and allow to rise before baking.

Do I have to use cream cheese frosting?

Nope! You can swap in a basic powdered sugar glaze, buttercream, or any favorite topping.

What’s the best way to slice the rolls cleanly?

Use unflavored dental floss to slice through the dough without squishing it.

Why didn’t my dough rise?

Check the yeast’s expiration date, and make sure your milk wasn’t too hot (which can kill the yeast).

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free butter and a plant-based milk. Use vegan cream cheese or glaze for topping.

Are these rolls overly sweet?

They’re sweet, but balanced by the tangy frosting. You can reduce sugar slightly if preferred.

Can I bake them in a different pan?

Yes! A round cake pan, cast iron skillet, or individual ramekins also work well.

Conclusion

Funfetti Cinnamon Rolls combine the best of classic cinnamon rolls with a playful, party-ready vibe. With their fluffy texture, gooey center, and sweet bursts of color, they’re sure to brighten up any occasion. Whether for a birthday breakfast or a cheerful weekend brunch, these rolls will be a hit every time.

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