If you’re looking to sprinkle a little festive magic on your breakfast table, this Reindeer Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is an absolute must-try! It transforms simple refrigerated cinnamon rolls into whimsical reindeer faces that feel as joyful as they taste. Not only is it incredibly fun to make, but the soft, gooey cinnamon sweetness combined with cute little candy features makes every bite a cozy celebration of flavor and holiday cheer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Reindeer Cinnamon Rolls Recipe lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are basic pantry staples and a few fun decorative candies that come together to create both delightful flavor and the adorable reindeer look you’ll love.
- Refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing: These form the soft, fluffy base and provide that classic cinnamon-sugar flavor everyone adores.
- Red peanut M&Ms: Perfectly sized to create the signature red noses that make Rudolph famous.
- Chocolate chips: Small, sweet, and just the right size to serve as the eyes of your reindeer.
How to Make Reindeer Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your baking sheet and cinnamon rolls
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a cookie sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and keep cleanup easy. Next, separate the cinnamon rolls, setting four whole ones aside on the baking sheet—you’ll use these as the reindeer faces.
Step 2: Craft the antlers
Take the remaining cinnamon rolls and carefully slice each in half to create the antler pieces. To add a bit of realism and character, cut two or three slits along the rounded edges of the halves; these slits make the antlers look more textured and intricate.
Step 3: Attach the antlers to the faces
Position the antler halves at the top of each whole cinnamon roll, arching them outward like real antlers. Pinch the edges where they meet to secure them firmly so they’ll bake together without falling apart.
Step 4: Bake till golden brown
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 8 to 10 minutes. The cinnamon rolls will puff up and turn a gorgeous golden brown, filling your kitchen with that irresistible cinnamon aroma.
Step 5: Add the icing and finishing touches
Once baked and slightly cooled, spread the provided icing generously over each reindeer. Place a red peanut M&M in the center of the face to represent the bright, cheerful nose, then add two chocolate chips just above for the eyes — your reindeer come to life in the cutest way possible!
How to Serve Reindeer Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
While the red M&M nose and chocolate chip eyes are the stars, consider dusting a little powdered sugar or adding tiny sprigs of fresh rosemary around your serving platter for a piney, wintry touch that enhances the festive presentation.
Side Dishes
These cinnamon rolls pair wonderfully with fresh fruit, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a warm cup of hot cocoa or spiced apple cider. The flavors balance wonderfully, making breakfast feel like a special occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful touch, place each roll on holiday-themed plates or stack them atop a wooden board decorated with evergreen sprigs and berries. You could even serve them as a fun brunch centerpiece, surrounded by mini muffins or fruit skewers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Reindeer Cinnamon Rolls Recipe treats (which might be rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep them soft and fresh.
Freezing
To enjoy these reindeer delights later, freeze unbaked rolls (assembled with antlers) by wrapping the baking sheet tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then transfer to a freezer bag; they’ll keep for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating
Warm leftover cinnamon rolls in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds or place them in a preheated 350°F oven covered loosely with foil for 5 to 7 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked softness and melty icing goodness.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the Reindeer Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is designed with refrigerated cinnamon rolls for convenience, homemade dough works beautifully too and allows you to customize the spice level and sweetness.
What if I don’t have red peanut M&Ms?
You can substitute with any red candy like regular M&Ms, red hots, or even small gummy candies. The goal is a bright red nose that stands out as a fun focal point.
How do I prevent the antlers from falling off during baking?
Make sure to pinch the cinnamon roll halves firmly against the whole rolls so they adhere well. The dough’s warmth and moisture help them stick together as they bake.
Can I make these gluten-free or dairy-free?
Yes, but you’ll want to use gluten-free refrigerated cinnamon rolls and check that your candy toppings are free from dairy or allergens. There are many great specialty products available to suit dietary needs.
Is the icing necessary?
The icing adds a lovely sweetness and moisture that complements the cinnamon rolls perfectly, but if you prefer, you can omit it or drizzle with a simple glaze or drizzle of honey instead.
Final Thoughts
Making the Reindeer Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is pure fun that brings a little extra sparkle and warmth to your mornings. From the straightforward prep to the joyful smiles it sparks, this recipe transforms humble cinnamon rolls into a festive treat that’s hard to resist. I promise once you try making these charming reindeer, they’ll become a beloved holiday tradition you look forward to year after year.
Print
Reindeer Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These festive Reindeer Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful and playful twist on classic cinnamon rolls, perfect for holiday breakfasts or parties. Made with refrigerated cinnamon rolls, decorated with red peanut M&Ms for the nose and chocolate chips for the eyes, they bring a fun and easy way to celebrate the season with deliciousness and cheer.
Ingredients
Reindeer Cinnamon Rolls
- 1 (12.4 oz) can refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
- 4 red peanut M&Ms
- 8 chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Separate Rolls: Open the can of cinnamon rolls and place four whole cinnamon rolls on the prepared baking sheet spaced evenly apart.
- Prepare Antlers: Using a sharp knife, cut each of the remaining cinnamon rolls in half. Then make two or three slits on the rounded edge of each half to create the appearance of antler points.
- Attach Antlers: Position the cut halves at the top of each whole cinnamon roll, arching them to resemble reindeer antlers. Press the edges gently to ensure they stick together during baking.
- Bake the Rolls: Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until the rolls turn golden brown and cooked through.
- Decorate the Reindeer: While the rolls are still warm, spread the included icing over their tops. Place a red peanut M&M in the center of each cinnamon roll face to serve as the nose, then add two chocolate chips above the nose to create eyes.
Notes
- If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, you can add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar to the rolls before baking.
- For a nut-free version, substitute the red peanut M&Ms with red candy-coated chocolates without nuts.
- Ensure the antler halves are well attached by pinching the dough edges firmly to avoid separation during baking.
- If you don’t have parchment paper, lightly grease the baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Customize the decorations by using other candies or edible markers for more creative faces.
