These Smashed Blackstone Cinnamon Rolls are fun and easy to make! You’ll love the warm, gooey cinnamon filling and sweet glaze that makes every bite a treat.
Just imagine flipping these tasty rolls on the griddle—such a fun twist! I enjoy serving them hot, right off the grill. Perfect for family brunch or a cozy breakfast! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your dough. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just note that the texture may vary slightly.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and a rich flavor. If you’re out, you can substitute with granulated sugar mixed with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon molasses per cup of sugar) for a similar taste.
Cinnamon: This gives the rolls a warm, comforting flavor. If you want to mix things up, try using pumpkin spice or apple pie spice to change the flavor profile.
Cream Cheese: Essential for the icing, cream cheese adds a nice tang. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can work, although the creaminess will be different.
How Do I Get the Perfect “Smashed” Look?
The “smashed” technique is what sets these cinnamon rolls apart! Here’s how to do it right:
- When rolling the dough into a log, make sure it’s tight but not so tight that the filling oozes out.
- Once rolled, gently press down on the log with your hands. This flattens it out and creates a wider surface for cooking.
- A rolling pin can also work if you prefer, just be gentle to maintain the filling inside.
Smashing the rolls while keeping the filling intact not only helps them cook better on the griddle but also gives them a unique rustic appearance. Enjoy!
How to Make Smashed Blackstone Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Icing:
- ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (for icing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes to prepare the dough and fillings, followed by about 10-14 minutes of cooking on the griddle, and a few minutes to make your icing. It’s quick, easy, and super tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir to mix well. Create a small well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until a wet dough begins to form—don’t worry if it’s a bit sticky!
2. Roll Out the Dough:
Flour your work surface lightly. Transfer the dough onto the floured surface, and using a rolling pin, roll it out into a rectangle shape about ½ inch thick. Don’t stress about the size being perfect; just aim for a nice rectangle!
3. Add Cinnamon Filling:
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined. Evenly sprinkle this sweet mixture over the entire surface of the rolled-out dough. Make sure to cover it well because this is where all the yummy flavor comes from!
4. Roll and Smash:
Starting from one long side of the rectangle, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Once you have it rolled up, gently press down to smash it into a flatter, round shape. This creates that fun “smashed” effect that makes them unique!
5. Cook the Rolls:
Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium heat and lightly grease the cooking surface. Place the smashed rolls onto the griddle and cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and feel cooked through when you press on them.
6. Make the Icing:
While your delicious rolls are cooking, get started on the icing! In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and 1-2 tablespoons of milk. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy—this icing is going to be so good!
7. Ice the Rolls:
After cooking, remove the smashed rolls from the griddle and let them cool for a minute or two. Drizzle the cream cheese icing over the warm rolls, letting it seep into all those delicious crevices!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to dig in! Serve your smashed Blackstone cinnamon rolls warm, and feel free to add extra icing if you’d like. Enjoy this sweet treat with your family or friends; it’s sure to bring smiles all around!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser. For a lighter roll, consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour. If you find the dough too dry, add an extra tablespoon of milk to help with moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese in the Icing?
If you don’t have cream cheese, you can use mascarpone or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Greek yogurt is another option for a tangy flavor. Just whisk it with powdered sugar and a little milk until smooth to achieve a similar consistency.
How to Store Leftover Smashed Cinnamon Rolls?
Store any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly and place them in the fridge for up to a week. To enjoy them warm, just reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
Can I Make These Cinnamon Rolls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time. Roll the dough, fill it, and slice the rolls, then place them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking them on the Blackstone for the best results.
