Do Cinnamon Rolls Need To Be Refrigerated?

Are you a cinnamon roll enthusiast? Have you wondered what the best methods for storing your delicious cinnamon rolls are? Do they last longer when stored in the refrigerator? We have extensively researched these questions and are delighted to share those answers.

The refrigerator is a good option to keep the cinnamon rolls fairly fresh for up to one week. Storing the cinnamon rolls at room temperature for two to three days should keep those rolls fresh and moist. Either option works well if the cinnamon rolls are stored in an air-tight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. 

Curious about extending the shelf life of your prize-winning cinnamon rolls? Or are you interested in learning more about storing options? Would you like to learn how to be slightly better prepared for the holiday season? Then, please continue reading to learn more about preserving and reheating cinnamon rolls!

How do you store fresh cinnamon rolls?

Firstly, ensure that the rolls are completely cooled before storing. If you plan to consume the cinnamon rolls within the next two days, storing the rolls at room temperature is the best option. Placing the rolls on a plate and covering them with aluminum foil or plastic wrap is the best and simplest option. Otherwise, an air-tight container works great as well.

For freezer storage, wrap the rolls in aluminum foil, saran wrap, or a heavy-duty freezer plastic bag. Squeeze excess air out of the bag and place it in the freezer. Typically, the cinnamon rolls will last two to three months in the freezer.

Another option for successful freezer storing is to individually wrap each cinnamon roll in aluminum or plastic wrap and place the separated buns into a large plastic freezer bag. This is a great option for lunches or any occasion where one cinnamon roll is sufficient.

How to store cinnamon roll dough?

Once the dough has been prepared and completed its first rise, store it properly in a bowl covered with plastic wrap over the top to allow the natural rising of the dough to occur without the risk of drying the dough. Punch the dough down 24 hours after placing it in the refrigerator. The dough will last up to three days in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow the dough fully to warm up to room temperature. The second rising will take longer because the dough will be chilled from the refrigerator.

Storing dough in the freezer offers two great storage methods that will last up to six weeks:

• The first option is to put the dough in an airtight container and place it in the freezer.
• The second consists of placing the unbaked cinnamon rolls onto a baking sheet or pan, wrapping the sheet with plastic wrap, wrapping aluminum foil over the plastic, or inserting the pan into a large plastic freezer bag. Store the sheet flat in the freezer, and do not stack another sheet on top; it will squish the dough unless it is fully frozen.

Both of these storage methods are very helpful for prepping dough ahead for the busy holiday season.

How long do cinnamon rolls last?

Refrigerated cinnamon rolls last up to one week in the refrigerator if properly stored in an airtight container or wrapped with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Generally, cinnamon rolls dry out in the refrigerator from the continuous cold. Although, adding a bit of butter and reheating those slightly dried buns in the microwave for a few seconds will help combat dryness.

Cinnamon rolls stored at room temperature will last two to three days. Although, depending on the climate, season, and overall temperature of your home, time varies. In colder climates, room temperature may cause the rolls to dry out, and instead of two to three days, it could be only one to two days of freshness.  In warmer climates, room temperature may assist the rolls to retain their moist consistency and a steady two to three-day shelf life.

Humidity does affect cinnamon rolls that are stored at room temperatures. If the rolls are not tightly wrapped, the humidity will cause the rolls to become chewy and overly moist. These climate-conscious examples are reasons to be continually mindful of storage practices.

Do Cinnabons need to be refrigerated?

No, Cinnabons do not need to be refrigerated. In fact, the Cinnabon company states do not refrigerate. Simply allow the Cinnabons to store at room temperature for up to two days or freeze for a shelf-life of 30 days. For best results, store the Cinnabons in an air-tight container or wrap the box securely with plastic wrap.

How to reheat Cinnabons

Set the Cinnabons on a microwave-safe plate and microwave for 30 to 40 seconds. Add an additional ten seconds per roll. Use moderate temperatures depending on the heating capabilities of your microwave. Add extra frosting after microwaving for best results.

How do you reheat cinnamon rolls?

Reheating cinnamon rolls in the microwave is the easiest and fastest route. Whether your lovely rolls are frosted or not, the reheating method is the same. Place your bun on a microwave-safe plate and microwave the cinnamon rolls on medium to high for 10 to 15 seconds —the high heat at a short duration aids in avoiding drying the buns or overheating them.

The oven is the most common method for reheating cinnamon rolls. Firstly, preheat the oven to 350. Next, unwrap the cinnamon rolls, place them on a flat baking sheet, and set the sheet on the center rack in the oven. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes. Whether the rolls are frosted or plain, this method will work fabulously!

A less popular yet very effective reheating option is using a griddler. Preheat the griddler and place the buns inside, spaced slightly apart. Heat for 10 minutes. Then, remove carefully with a spatula or kitchen tongs. Click here to see Cuisinart's griddler on Amazon.

Tips and Tricks For Reducing Dryness

Suppose your cinnamon rolls are a bit dry after a week in the fridge or sitting on the counter for the past couple of days. Rest assured, there is an easy solution! Before reheating the rolls in the microwave. Firstly, set a microwave-safe cup filled halfway with water inside the microwave and bring it to a simmer or low boil. Leave the cup in the microwave and place it near the rolls while those are reheating. The steam from the water will help hydrate the rolls and reduce the dryness.

Lightly sprinkle the cinnamon rolls with water and wrap the buns in aluminum foil. Bake in the oven at low to moderate heat for about 10 minutes or less, depending on personal taste preferences.

If you have extra frosting on hand and your rolls are a bit too dry, add an extra teaspoon of frosting to each roll before reheating. Also, you could substitute butter in place of frosting. These are solid options to reduce dryness and add a little extra sweetness to your day.

In honor of the timeless cinnamon roll!

In 1999, Sweden's Home Baking Council created a holiday titled Cinnamon Roll Day. Allegedly, the council added this holiday to the calendar to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the cinnamon rolls' presence in Sweden. October 4, 2021, is the next holiday! So celebrate accordingly with a cinnamon roll in your hand and a smile on your face!

In Closing

Cinnamon rolls are one of the most loved pastries that will surely bring smiles to your table.  The culinary world is fascinating to explore and expand one's grasp of baking skills. Please visit KitchenSeer soon to further your exploration in the world of culinary arts.