Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Frosting

This Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Frosting is the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and silky smooth to top your homemade cinnamon rolls, muffins, donuts, or quick breads. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll have a bakery-quality frosting ready in minutes!

Jump to Recipe

I like to make a batch of frosting ahead of time and keep it in my fridge for busy mornings.

A white baking dish filled with six freshly baked cinnamon rolls topped with creamy white icing. The dish is placed on a white surface with a white and blue striped cloth nearby.

Great Reasons You Will Want to Make This Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Frosting

Rich & Creamy: The combination of butter and cream cheese creates a luscious texture.
Easy to Make: Just mix and spread—no complicated steps required!
Customizable: Adjust the consistency or add a flavor boost with simple variations.

Ingredients For Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Frosting

Here’s what you’ll need to make this dreamy frosting:

An overhead view of baking ingredients: a stick of salted sweet cream butter, a box of cream cheese, a small bowl of vanilla extract, and a bowl of powdered sugar placed on a white surface.

Butter: Softened for easy mixing and a smooth texture.
Cream cheese: Use full-fat, brick-style cream cheese for the best consistency.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors.
Powdered sugar: Adds the perfect level of sweetness and smooth texture.

Before You Get Started

Make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for easy blending.
Use an electric mixer to achieve a light and fluffy texture.
For an ultra-smooth finish, sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the mixture.

How To Make Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Frosting

A white mixing bowl containing a block of cream cheese and melted butter.

Step 1: Blend the Base

In a large mixing bowl, add softened butter, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat with an electric mixer for about 30 seconds until smooth.

A whisk attached to a black electric mixer rests in a white bowl containing creamy mixture and powdered sugar. The bowl is set against a white background.

Step 2: Incorporate the Sugar

Gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing on low speed to prevent messes.

Step 3: Fluff It Up

A white mixing bowl containing smooth, creamy batter is shown. A wooden-handled spatula with a dark blue silicone head rests in the bowl, partially covered in the mixture. The background is a plain white surface.

Once all the powdered sugar is incorporated, increase the speed and beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy (about 1 minute). Generously spread over warm baked goods like cinnamon rolls and enjoy every bite!

Illustration of a caramel syrup bottle with a brown label. The label includes the words "Caramel Syrup" and features an image of caramel cubes. The bottle has a handle and a screw cap.

Tips and Variations

For a thicker frosting, add 1/4 cup more powdered sugar.
For a thinner glaze, mix in 1-2 teaspoons of milk.
Add a flavor twist by mixing in 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or a little lemon zest.

Two cinnamon rolls with creamy icing on a white plate, placed in front of a baking dish filled with more cinnamon rolls. The icing is thick and evenly spread, showcasing a freshly baked appearance. The scene includes a striped cloth backdrop.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Bring to Room Temperature: Let the frosting sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before using.
Freezing Option: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and stir well before using.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this frosting ahead of time?

Yes! Store it in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before spreading.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

You can, but the texture may be slightly less creamy.

What if I don’t have an electric mixer?

You can mix by hand with a sturdy whisk, but it will take longer to achieve the same fluffy texture.

Serving Ideas

Try spreading this easy cream cheese frosting over these Basic Muffins for a rich and creamy upgrade. It also pairs beautifully with Gluten-Free Pumpkin Muffins, adding a smooth contrast to the warm spices. For a citrusy twist, top Cranberry Orange Muffins with this frosting to balance the tartness of the cranberries.