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Freshly baked cinnamon rolls topped with rich buttercream icing.

cinnamon roll icing without cream cheese

This simple and delicious cinnamon roll icing without cream cheese provides a sweet, creamy finish to your homemade cinnamon rolls without the tanginess of cream cheese. Choose from different variations such as a classic vanilla glaze, maple syrup icing, or a rich brown sugar glaze, each bringing a unique flavor to your favorite pastry. Perfect for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking for a fresh twist on the classic cinnamon roll topping.

  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Yield: 12-15 cinnamon rolls 1x

Ingredients

Scale

  • For the Classic Vanilla Glaze:

    • 1 cup powdered sugar
    • 2–3 tablespoons milk (or dairy-free alternative)
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • A pinch of salt (optional)

  • For the Brown Sugar Glaze:

    • 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
    • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or dairy-free butter)
    • 1/4 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • A pinch of salt

  • For the Maple Icing:

    • 1 cup powdered sugar
    • 2–3 tablespoons maple syrup (preferably pure)
    • 2 tablespoons milk (or dairy-free alternative)
    • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • For the Buttercream Icing:

    • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
    • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
    • 1–2 tablespoons milk (or dairy-free alternative)
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • A pinch of salt

  • For the Coconut Icing:

    • 1 cup powdered sugar
    • 2 tablespoons coconut milk (full-fat for a richer texture)
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1/4 teaspoon coconut extract (optional)

Instructions

1. Classic Vanilla Glaze:

  1. Sift the powdered sugar in a mixing bowl to avoid lumps.
  2. Gradually add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the glaze reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
  3. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt (optional).
  4. Drizzle the glaze over your warm cinnamon rolls.

2. Brown Sugar Glaze:

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, butter, and cream.
  2. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the butter melts. Bring to a simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
  3. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
  4. Allow the glaze to cool slightly before pouring over your cinnamon rolls.

3. Maple Icing:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and maple syrup.
  2. Slowly add milk to achieve your desired consistency.
  3. Stir in vanilla extract.
  4. Drizzle over warm cinnamon rolls for a sweet maple finish.

4. Buttercream Icing:

  1. Beat softened butter until smooth.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fully incorporated.
  3. Add milk, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until the icing is light and fluffy.
  4. Drizzle or pipe the buttercream onto the cinnamon rolls for a creamy topping.

5. Coconut Icing:

  1. In a bowl, combine powdered sugar and coconut milk, stirring until smooth.
  2. Add vanilla and coconut extract (if using).
  3. Drizzle over warm cinnamon rolls for a tropical twist.

Notes

  • You can adjust the thickness of each glaze by adding more powdered sugar or milk depending on your desired consistency.
  • For a dairy-free version, simply use plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and coconut cream in place of regular cream.
  • Each of these icings pairs beautifully with freshly baked cinnamon rolls, providing a perfect, non-cream cheese alternative!
  • Author: Aida
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cinnamon roll