Can I make cream cheese frosting for cinnamon rolls without butter?

Yes, simply omit the butter for a tangier, lighter texture while maintaining creamy consistency.

How do I make fluffy cream cheese frosting for cinnamon rolls?

Whip butter first, then beat with cream cheese until airy before adding powdered sugar.

How do I measure cream cheese frosting for cinnamon rolls in grams?

Use 225 g cream cheese, 56 g butter, and 300 g powdered sugar for precise baking results.

Cream Cheese Frosting for Cinnamon Rolls (Easy) 2026

Name: Cream Cheese Frosting for Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 cups
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1-2 tablespoons milk; Pinch of salt

Description

This rich, smooth, and perfectly tangy cream cheese frosting melts beautifully over warm cinnamon rolls. It’s thick, fluffy, and easy to spread — the ultimate topping for homemade breakfast rolls. Whether you prefer it classic, extra fluffy, or without butter, this frosting delivers bakery-style results every time.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (for 12 cinnamon rolls):

Classic Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz (225 g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
¼ cup (56 g) unsalted butter, softened
2 ½ cups (300 g) powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1–2 tablespoons (15–30 ml) milk (as needed for consistency)
Pinch of salt (optional, enhances flavor)

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Beat the Cream Cheese & Butter
In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter together until completely smooth and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). No lumps allowed!

Step 2: Add Sugar
Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined. Increase speed and beat until light and creamy.

Step 3: Flavor & Adjust
Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Mix well. Add milk 1 tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency — thick for spreading or slightly thinner for drizzling.

Step 4: Frost the Rolls
Spread generously over warm (not hot) cinnamon rolls so it slightly melts into the swirls. For thick bakery-style frosting, let rolls cool slightly before spreading.

📝 Variations:

🍋 Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting for Cinnamon Rolls
Add 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice + 1 teaspoon lemon zest for a bright citrus twist.

🥄 Simple Cream Cheese Frosting (No Butter)
Skip the butter and use:
8 oz (225 g) cream cheese
2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
1–2 tablespoons milk
Beat until smooth and creamy.

🏆 Philadelphia Cream Cheese Frosting for Cinnamon Rolls
Use full-fat Philadelphia block cream cheese for the thickest, smoothest texture and best flavor.

☁ Fluffy Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat butter alone for 2 minutes first, then add cream cheese and whip until airy before adding sugar.

Notes

• Always use block-style cream cheese, not spreadable tub versions.
• Make sure ingredients are room temperature to avoid lumps.
• If frosting becomes too thin, add more powdered sugar.
• If too thick, add milk 1 teaspoon at a time.
• Store leftovers in the fridge up to 5 days. Re-whip before using.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: None
Category: Frosting / Breakfast Topping
Method: No-Bake / Mixed
Cuisine: American