There’s just something about cinnamon rolls that instantly transports me back to my childhood. I fondly recall the scent of buttery dough mingling with warm cinnamon wafting through the house every Sunday morning, while I eagerly awaited my share with sticky fingers and a big smile. It’s almost magical how it transforms a regular day into something special. So, when I thought about combining my love for cinnamon rolls with another all-time favorite—ice cream—I couldn’t resist. This Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream is my homage to those cozy mornings, and let me tell you, it’s a treat that’s worth celebrating year-round!
I love this recipe because it manages to capture that warm, gooey goodness of a classic cinnamon roll and turns it into a creamy and dreamy ice cream. The swirls of cinnamon and sugar, mixed with the decadent creaminess, create an indulgent dessert experience that feels both familiar and refreshing. Plus, it’s super simple! Whether it’s for a summer BBQ or a cozy movie night, this ice cream is sure to impress. So grab your mixing bowls, and let’s dive into making the most delicious icy treat!
What’s in Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream?
Heavy Cream: This is the base of our ice cream. It gives it that luscious, velvety texture. I prefer a brand that’s free of additives for the best flavor.
Whole Milk: Adds creaminess without being too heavy. It balances out the richness of the heavy cream just right!
Granulated Sugar: Essential for sweetness! You could use less if you want a less sweet ice cream, but I’ve found that a good amount brings out all those delicious cinnamon flavors.
Cinnamon: The star of the show! You can’t have cinnamon roll ice cream without this warm, spicy goodness. I love using Ceylon cinnamon for a sweeter, more complex flavor.
Brown Sugar: Adds a depth of flavor and that delightful caramel undertone. Light or dark, it all depends on your preference!
Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla enhances the overall flavor and makes it taste even more indulgent. Trust me, it’s worth seeking out the real deal.
Cookie Dough (or Pre-made Cinnamon Rolls): This is optional, but it gives that authentic cinnamon roll vibe. I often use store-bought cookie dough chunks or cinnamon rolls for convenience.
Chopped Nuts (optional): Walnuts or pecans can be added for an extra crunch if you like a bit of texture in your ice cream.
Is Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream Good for You?
Now, let’s chat a little about whether this sweet indulgence is good for you. While this Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream isn’t going to pass as a health food, it does have some ingredients that pack a punch!
Heavy Cream and whole milk are rich in calcium and provide a good amount of fat, which can help you feel satisfied longer. However, moderation is key! This ice cream is definitely a decadent treat rather than a daily delight.
The sugar content can be higher than you’d find in, say, fresh fruit. So, if you’re watching your sugar intake, perhaps save this recipe for a special occasion rather than an everyday dessert. Besides that, if you’re sensitive to dairy, you could explore making a dairy-free version using coconut cream and almond milk!
Overall, enjoying a scoop or two every now and then can definitely be part of a balanced diet. It’s all about those moments of joy!
Ingredients List
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons cinnamon
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup cookie dough chunks or pre-made cinnamon rolls (optional)
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
– Serves: Approximately 6-8 people
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream?
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined. You want to make sure that all the sugars are dissolved, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
2. If you’re using pre-made cinnamon rolls, chop them into bite-sized pieces and gently fold them into the mixture. If you’re using cookie dough, chop it up into chunks and add that in too.
3. Once everything is mixed, pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. It usually takes about 20–25 minutes until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
4. Transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container, and you can either swirl in some extra cinnamon sugar mixture or keep it simple.
5. Let it freeze for at least 4–6 hours or until it firms up nicely.
6. Scoop out your delightful Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream and enjoy!
Rolling with Flavor: Tips and Variations
– If you want an extra cinnamon swirl, you can mix some melted cinnamon sugar right before you freeze it for an added flavor kick.
– There’s no rule that says you can’t top your ice cream with cream cheese frosting—hello, it’s cinnamon rolls, after all!
– Feeling adventurous? How about adding a bit of maple syrup or even a splash of bourbon to your mixture for a unique twist?
– This ice cream pairs wonderfully with a hot chocolate sauce or a drizzle of caramel. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love more toppings?
There you have it! I can’t wait for you to try making this Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream. It’s a labor of love that’s going to make your taste buds dance with joy! If you get a chance to whip some up, do let me know how it turns out. Happy making!