why make this recipe
Dutch Oven Cinnamon Rolls are a delicious treat that can bring warmth and comfort to any gathering. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a sweet snack. The unique advantage of cooking them in a Dutch oven is that they come out soft and fluffy, and the cinnamon-sugar filling melts beautifully, creating a warm, gooey center. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, these cinnamon rolls are easy to prepare and will impress everyone.
how to make Dutch Oven Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon softened butter (for greasing)
- 24 frozen unbaked rolls (such as Rhodes)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or half-and-half/milk)
- 8 oz cream cheese frosting
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon-sugar blend (optional)
Directions:
- Grease the Dutch oven or cast iron pan with softened butter.
- Arrange frozen rolls evenly inside the Dutch oven.
- Sprinkle brown sugar over each roll, followed by cinnamon and chopped pecans.
- Pour melted butter evenly over the top.
- Let rolls rise for at least 2 hours, or until doubled in size. Cooler temperatures may require up to 3 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover Dutch oven with lid or foil and bake for about 30 minutes, or until rolls are cooked through.
- If using charcoal, heat charcoal briquettes. Place 12 hot coals on the ground or table and set the Dutch oven on top. Add additional hot coals on the lid. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until rolls are cooked through.
- Warm cream cheese frosting in a heat-safe bowl. Stir in heavy cream to thin. Drizzle frosting generously over warm cinnamon rolls. Top with cinnamon-sugar if desired.
- Serve warm, spooning buttery cinnamon sauce over each roll.
how to serve Dutch Oven Cinnamon Rolls
Serve the Dutch Oven Cinnamon Rolls warm, straight from the oven for the best taste. You can add an extra drizzle of cream cheese frosting on top and sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar for added sweetness. They are perfect for sharing, so consider placing them on a large platter for everyone to enjoy.
how to store Dutch Oven Cinnamon Rolls
To store leftover cinnamon rolls, let them cool completely first. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They will stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months.
tips to make Dutch Oven Cinnamon Rolls
- Make sure to grease the Dutch oven well to prevent sticking.
- Let the rolls rise in a warm area for the best results.
- Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
- For a twist, add some chocolate chips to the filling.
variation
You can create different flavors by adding fruits or spices. For example, consider adding raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity touch. Alternatively, you could swap out the pecans for a nut-free option and even try adding a touch of vanilla extract to the frosting for more flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade rolls instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use homemade rolls. Just make sure they are unbaked before arranging them in the Dutch oven.
2. How do I know when the rolls are properly baked?
The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and cooked through in the center. You can do a toothpick test to check for any sticky dough.
3. How can I make them ahead of time?
You can prepare the rolls up to the rising step and refrigerate them overnight. In the morning, just let them rise until doubled and bake as directed.

Dutch Oven Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
Method
- Grease the Dutch oven or cast iron pan with softened butter.
- Arrange frozen rolls evenly inside the Dutch oven.
- Sprinkle brown sugar over each roll, followed by cinnamon and chopped pecans.
- Pour melted butter evenly over the top.
- Let rolls rise for at least 2 hours, or until doubled in size. Cooler temperatures may require up to 3 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover Dutch oven with lid or foil and bake for about 30 minutes, or until rolls are cooked through.
- If using charcoal, heat charcoal briquettes. Place 12 hot coals on the ground or table and set the Dutch oven on top. Add additional hot coals on the lid. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until rolls are cooked through.
- Warm cream cheese frosting in a heat-safe bowl. Stir in heavy cream to thin. Drizzle frosting generously over warm cinnamon rolls. Top with cinnamon-sugar if desired.
- Serve warm, spooning buttery cinnamon sauce over each roll.
