Description
This creamy and smooth cinnamon roll icing combines the tanginess of cream cheese with the sweetness of powdered sugar, enhanced by vanilla and a touch of butter. Perfectly spreadable and easy to prepare, this icing melts deliciously over warm cinnamon rolls for a soft, flavorful finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Icing Base
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (whole or skim, adjust based on desired thickness)
Optional Flavoring
- Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Cream Cheese and Butter: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter. Using an electric mixer or whisk, blend them together until smooth and creamy to form the base of your icing.
- Add Powdered Sugar Gradually: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, mixing on low speed to prevent a sugar cloud and to ensure even incorporation.
- Mix in Vanilla Extract: Once the sugar is fully incorporated, add the vanilla extract and mix thoroughly to infuse the icing with its rich flavor.
- Adjust Consistency with Milk: Slowly add the milk, one tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition until the icing reaches a smooth and spreadable consistency perfect for frosting your cinnamon rolls.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the icing and adjust sweetness or texture if needed. Optionally, add a pinch of salt to enhance flavors or a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for additional warm spice notes.
- Frost the Cinnamon Rolls: Once the cinnamon rolls are baked and slightly cooled, spread the icing generously over the warm rolls so it melts slightly, creating a luscious finish.
- Optional Flavor Boost: For enhanced flavor, consider mixing a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the icing before spreading.
Notes
- Use softened cream cheese and butter for the smoothest icing texture.
- Adjust the amount of milk to get the desired thickness suitable for spreading or drizzling.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and butter with vegan alternatives and use plant-based milk.
- The icing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; stir well before use.
- If your icing becomes too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
- Adding a pinch of salt balances the sweetness and intensifies flavors.
- Try adding citrus zest such as orange or lemon for a fresh twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Icing/Frosting
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (about 30g)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 12mg
Keywords: cinnamon roll icing, cream cheese frosting, easy cinnamon roll topping, sweet icing, vanilla cream cheese icing
