Get the authentic taste of Taco Bell’s Cinnabon Delights at home with our easy-to-follow recipe, complete with pro tips, ingredient lists, and step-by-step instructions.
Cinnabon Delights: A Sweet Treat from Taco Bell
Cinnabon Delights, a unique dessert offering from Taco Bell, have gained a loyal following for their sweet and gooey goodness. These bite-sized pastries combine the warmth of cinnamon with the richness of sugar, all wrapped up in a flaky, buttery crust. The result is an irresistible treat that’s perfect for satisfying sweet cravings.
Why Make Cinnabon Delights at Home?
Making Cinnabon Delights at home allows for a level of customization and control that’s not possible when purchasing them from a restaurant. With a homemade recipe, it’s easy to adjust the amount of cinnamon and sugar to taste, and even experiment with new flavor combinations. Additionally, homemade Cinnabon Delights can be made in large batches, perfect for sharing with friends and family, or storing in the freezer for a quick dessert anytime.
- Customizable to taste preferences
- Cost-effective in large batches
- Perfect for sharing or storing in the freezer
Taco Bell Cinnabon Delights Recipe Card
Craving those warm, gooey Taco Bell Cinnabon Delights? Recreate the magic at home with this simple recipe! This printable card has everything you need to whip up a batch of these irresistible treats.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
12-15 minutes
Yields:
12 mini delights
Ingredients:
- 1 can (14.1 ounces) refrigerated biscuits
- 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk
- 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
- Separate biscuits and press each into a muffin cup.
- In a bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Pour mixture evenly over biscuits.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While still warm, brush tops with milk.
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and milk to make icing. Drizzle over warm delights.
Enjoy your homemade Taco Bell Cinnabon Delights!
Ingredients for Taco Bell Cinnabon Delights
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and gooey taste of Cinnabon Delights, inspired by Taco Bell’s famous dessert. Gather these essential ingredients to make the perfect treats.
- 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed (240 g / 1 cup)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (110 g / 1/2 cup)
- 1 cup sweetened cream cheese frosting (see below)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Optional Ingredients:
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for a unique twist)
Sweet Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (225 g)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (110 g)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Let’s get started on making these scrumptious Cinnabon Delights!
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Taco Bell Cinnabon Delights
To create the iconic Taco Bell Cinnabon Delights, start by making the flaky, buttery pastry from scratch, which will be the foundation of these sweet treats.
- Combine 240 g / 1 cup of warm milk (37°C / 98°F) and 15 g / 1 tablespoon of sugar in a large mixing bowl, then add 10 g / 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, letting it sit for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.
- Mix in 360 g / 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 10 g / 2 teaspoons of salt, and 60 g / 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted, to form a smooth dough, which will then need to be kneaded for 10 minutes.
- Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until it becomes elastic and smooth, then place it in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place at 25°C / 77°F for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and roll it out into a large rectangle, approximately 30 cm x 40 cm / 12 inches x 16 inches, and 6 mm / 1/4 inch thick, which will be used to create the signature Cinnabon Delights shape.
- Cut out small squares of dough, approximately 5 cm x 5 cm / 2 inches x 2 inches, and wrap each square around a filling of your choice, such as sweet cream cheese or cinnamon sugar, to create the Cinnabon Delights.
- Place the Cinnabon Delights on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 2.5 cm / 1 inch of space between each delight, and bake in a preheated oven at 190°C / 375°F for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While the Cinnabon Delights are baking, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating by mixing 100 g / 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 15 g / 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon in a small bowl, which will be used to coat the warm Cinnabon Delights.
- Remove the Cinnabon Delights from the oven and let them cool for 2-3 minutes, then toss them in the cinnamon sugar coating to evenly coat, making sure to get all sides.
- To make the sweet cream cheese frosting, beat 120 g / 4 ounces of cream cheese, softened, and 60 g / 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, softened, together in a large mixing bowl, until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add 200 g / 1 cup of powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, beating until smooth and creamy, then use to frost the cooled Cinnabon Delights.
Tips and Variations
To take your Cinnabon Delights to the next level, try experimenting with different fillings, such as strawberry or blueberry, or adding a drizzle of caramel sauce on top of the cream cheese frosting.
- For an extra crispy coating, try chilling the Cinnabon Delights in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking.
- To make the Cinnabon Delights more indulgent, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the cream cheese frosting.
Pro Tips for Making the Perfect Cinnabon Delights
Ready to elevate your homemade Cinnabon Delights? Here are some expert tips to ensure your treats are bursting with flavor and texture:
- Sweet and Savory Harmony: Don’t skimp on the cinnamon! It’s key to that iconic Cinnabon flavor. For a more complex taste, add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger to the filling.
- Golden Perfection: Overcooked pastries become dry and crumbly. Keep a close eye on your oven and aim for a light golden brown color. They’ll continue to cook slightly even after you remove them from the oven.
- Freshness is Best: These delights are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. If you need to make them ahead, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for a few minutes to restore their soft texture.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid:
- Using too much flour when rolling out the dough can result in a tough pastry. Add flour gradually and only as needed.
- Don’t overfill the pastries, as this can lead to spillage during baking.
- Ensure your oven is properly preheated before baking for even cooking.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating homemade Cinnabon Delights that are just as delicious (if not more so!) than the original.
Substitutions and Variations for Taco Bell Cinnabon Delights
Take your Cinnabon Delights to the next level by experimenting with alternative ingredients and flavor combinations.
Chocolate-Dipped Delights
For a rich, chocolatey twist, try substituting the cinnamon sugar coating with a mixture of 120 g (1 cup) melted milk chocolate and 60 g (1/2 cup) chopped pecans.
- Replace 240 g (1 cup) granulated sugar with 180 g (3/4 cup) brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor.
Fruit-Topped Delights
Top your Cinnabon Delights with a mixture of 120 g (1 cup) powdered sugar and 60 g (1/2 cup) chopped fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries.
- Replace 240 g (1 cup) cinnamon sugar with 180 g (3/4 cup) cinnamon-fruit spice blend for added warmth and sweetness.
- Add 1 tablespoon of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
Remember, these substitutions and variations are just a starting point. Feel free to experiment and create your own unique Cinnabon Delights recipes!
Creative Variations of Taco Bell Cinnabon Delights
Take the classic Cinnabon Delights to the next level with these innovative recipes. By incorporating nuts, seeds, or alternative pastry dough, the possibilities are endless.
- Pecan Praline Delights: Add 60 g / 1/2 cup of chopped pecans to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. Baking time remains the same, at 190°C / 375°F for 15-20 minutes.
- Sesame Seed Twist: Replace the cinnamon sugar with a mixture of 30 g / 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds and 15 g / 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. This variation adds a nutty flavor and crunchy texture, with no change in baking time.
- Chocolate Pastry Delights: Use chocolate-flavored pastry dough to give the Cinnabon Delights a rich, decadent twist. Bake at 180°C / 350°F for 18-22 minutes, or until the chocolate pastry is golden brown.
These creative variations offer a range of flavors and textures to reinvent the classic Cinnabon Delights. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect treat.
How to Store and Freeze Taco Bell Cinnabon Delights
Homemade Cinnabon Delights are best enjoyed fresh, but you can definitely make a batch ahead of time or freeze them for later. Here’s how to keep them tasting their best:
Storing at Room Temperature
If you’ve just made your Cinnabon Delights and want to enjoy them within a day or two, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help prevent them from drying out.
Refrigerator Storage
For longer storage, place your cooled Cinnabon Delights in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days.
Freezing for Future Enjoyment
- Cool completely: Allow the Cinnabon Delights to cool completely before freezing.
- Wrap individually: Wrap each Cinnabon Delight individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months: Freeze the wrapped Cinnabon Delights for up to 3 months for optimal quality.
Thawing and Reheating
To thaw frozen Cinnabon Delights, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can then enjoy them as is or reheat them in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Taco Bell Cinnabon Delights
Don’t let common issues ruin your Cinnabon Delights experience. We’re here to help you troubleshoot and achieve perfect results.
Common Issues and Solutions:
-
Overcooking:
- Issue: Cinnabon Delights are too dark or hard.
- Solution: Reduce baking time by 2-3 minutes, or check for doneness at the 8-minute mark.
-
Undercooking:
- Issue: Cinnabon Delights are pale or soggy.
- Solution: Increase baking time by 2-3 minutes, or check for doneness at the 10-minute mark.
-
Uneven Baking:
- Issue: Cinnabon Delights are cooked differently on each side.
- Solution: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking.
-
Leaking Filling:
- Issue: Cinnabon Delights have a messy filling.
- Solution: Make sure to seal the edges of the dough properly before baking.
By following these troubleshooting tips, you’ll be able to achieve perfectly baked Cinnabon Delights every time.
Nutrition Facts for Taco Bell Cinnabon Delights
Each serving of homemade Cinnabon Delights (2 pieces) contains approximately 240 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of 12g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 4g of protein.
- Calories: 240 per serving (2 pieces)
- Fat: 12g / 18% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Sugar: 16g
Note: These treats are not Gluten-Free (GF), Dairy-Free (DF), or Vegan. However, modifications can be made to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Can I substitute the cinnamon sugar mixture with a different type of sugar topping? While you can experiment with different sugar toppings, the cinnamon sugar mixture is a key component of the original Cinnabon Delights flavor. If you choose to substitute, keep in mind that the flavor may not be as authentic.
- How do I store leftover Cinnabon Delights to maintain their freshness? Store leftover Cinnabon Delights in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them and thawing as needed. When reheating, use a low temperature to prevent the pastries from becoming soggy.
- Can I make the Cinnabon Delights ahead of time and assemble them just before serving? Yes, you can prepare the dough and filling components ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and fry the Cinnabon Delights just before serving. This will help maintain their texture and prevent them from becoming soggy.
- What type of oil is best for frying the Cinnabon Delights? A neutral-tasting oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or peanut oil, is best for frying the Cinnabon Delights. Avoid using oils with strong flavors, as they may affect the taste of the pastries.
Frequently Asked Questions About Taco Bell Cinnabon Delights
Have questions about recreating those delicious Taco Bell Cinnabon Delights at home? We’ve got you covered!
Can I substitute the ingredients?
While we encourage using the recipe as written for the best results, you can experiment with substitutions. For example, you can use a different type of cinnamon, or swap out the cream cheese frosting for a vanilla glaze.
How long do I bake the Cinnabon Delights?
The baking time depends on your oven. Generally, bake for 18-22 minutes at 190°C (375°F), or until golden brown and cooked through.
What if my Cinnabon Delights are too soft?
If the dough feels too soft, add a tablespoon or two of additional flour to the mixture. This will help to create a firmer texture.
Can I freeze the Cinnabon Delights?
Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container. When ready to bake, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Key Takeaways from Making Taco Bell Cinnabon Delights at Home
Mastering the art of baking Cinnabon Delights at home requires attention to detail and a few essential tips. Here’s what you need to know:
- Choose the right cinnamon sugar mixture: A blend of granulated sugar and cinnamon is crucial for achieving the signature Cinnabon flavor. Use a 1:1 ratio of sugar to cinnamon for the best results.
- Don’t overmix the dough: Mix wet and dry ingredients separately and gently fold them together to prevent overdevelopment of the dough, which can lead to tough pastries.
- Use the right baking temperature: Bake the Cinnabon Delights at 180°C (350°F) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. This ensures a crispy exterior and a soft interior.
- Glaze with care: Mix the glaze ingredients separately and apply a thin layer to the cooled pastries. Avoid overglazing, as this can make the pastries too sweet.
By following these key takeaways, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious Taco Bell Cinnabon Delights at home.
The Joy of Making Taco Bell Cinnabon Delights at Home
There’s something truly satisfying about recreating a beloved treat like Taco Bell Cinnabon Delights in your own kitchen. The aroma of warm cinnamon and sugar filling the air is irresistible, and the moment you bite into that gooey, cinnamon-sugar goodness, you’re transported back to those happy Taco Bell memories.
Sharing these homemade delights with loved ones, friends, or even just enjoying a quiet moment with a warm Cinnabon Delight is a special treat.
Give this recipe a try and experience the joy for yourself! And while you’re at it, explore other fun and easy dessert recipes on the blog.
