If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the festive spirit of the season and comes together with minimal fuss, you’re going to adore this recipe. Easy Mardi Gras Cinnamon Rolls with Two Ingredient Dough Magic Recipe is a joyous way to celebrate, combining the rich flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar wrapped in a super simple dough that requires just two main ingredients. These rolls are not only a feast for the senses with their soft, fluffy texture and colorful presentation, but they promise to bring warmth and happiness to any breakfast or brunch table. The magic here is truly in how easy and quick these rolls come together, making it possible to enjoy a homemade celebration in less than 35 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by fancy ingredient lists—this recipe is refreshingly straightforward, relying on a handful of staples that work together perfectly to create those tender, flavorful rolls you’ll crave. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether it’s creating the dough’s structure, delivering that classic cinnamon sweetness, or adding the perfect finishing touch with icing and sprinkles.
- Self-Rising Flour: Provides the perfect leavening to create soft, fluffy rolls without extra yeast or waiting time.
- Plain Greek Yogurt: Adds moisture and a slight tang, balancing the sweetness and tenderizing the dough for that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- Brown Sugar: Gives a deep molasses sweetness and keeps the filling nicely gooey.
- Cinnamon: The heart of the flavor profile; warm and aromatic, it brings that classic cinnamon roll taste to life.
- Melted Butter: Used to brush the dough, ensuring a rich, tender crumb and helping the cinnamon sugar stick beautifully.
- Confectioners’ Sugar: The base of the icing, adding sweetness and smoothness in every glaze.
- Milk: Used to thin the icing for perfect drizzling, plus it can be swapped to fit dietary needs.
- Food Coloring: Optional but fun—adds the vibrant Mardi Gras colors that make these rolls festive and visually striking.
- Sugar: Adds extra sweetness to the filling, balancing the cinnamon and butter with a lovely crunch and caramelized flavor.
How to Make Easy Mardi Gras Cinnamon Rolls with Two Ingredient Dough Magic Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Magical Dough
Start by mixing the self-rising flour and Greek yogurt directly in a bowl until a soft dough starts to form—it might feel sticky but that’s just right. Turn it out onto a floured surface, and knead gently for a minute or two until smooth and elastic. This two-ingredient dough is really the star of the show because it requires no yeast or proofing, making your baking journey wonderfully quick and easy.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
Next, roll your dough out on a floured surface until it’s about ½-inch thick—think of it as the perfect canvas for your cinnamon and sugar masterpiece. This is when the fun really begins, as you’re about to add the flavors that will set these rolls apart.
Step 3: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Filling
Brush the dough generously with melted butter. This not only adds richness but also helps your cinnamon and sugar stick perfectly. Then, sprinkle a mix of brown sugar, cinnamon, and granulated sugar evenly over the surface. This sweet, spiced layer is what turns simple dough into a classic cinnamon roll sensation.
Step 4: Roll and Slice
Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, starting from one of the long edges. Once rolled, slice it into 12 equal pieces—each one promising a perfect swirl of cinnamon sugar goodness. Place them cut-side up in a greased 8×8 baking dish, ready for that golden bake.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to around 365-375°F and bake the rolls for approximately 25 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown on top. The smell wafting from your oven will be absolutely irresistible.
Step 6: Whip Up the Icing and Add Colorful Flair
Mix confectioners’ sugar with milk until you achieve a smooth, pourable icing. Drizzle this luscious glaze over your warm rolls. For that festive Mardi Gras look, sprinkle colorful homemade or natural food-color sprinkles on top, making these cinnamon rolls as joyful on the eyes as they are on the palate.
How to Serve Easy Mardi Gras Cinnamon Rolls with Two Ingredient Dough Magic Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these rolls from delicious to dazzling, consider topping them with festive sprinkles in traditional Mardi Gras colors like purple, green, and gold. You can also add chopped pecans or a dusting of cinnamon for texture and extra flavor. Fresh fruit such as berries can provide a fresh, tangy contrast that complements the sweet rolls wonderfully.
Side Dishes
Easy Mardi Gras Cinnamon Rolls with Two Ingredient Dough Magic Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Think fresh fruit salad, a bowl of creamy yogurt, or even a cup of strong coffee or spicy chai tea. These accompaniments balance the sweetness and make for a well-rounded breakfast or brunch feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving these cinnamon rolls on a colorful tray or tiered stand to bring some Mardi Gras flair to your table setting. Wrapping each roll in decorative parchment paper or tying them in bundles with twine can turn this treat into a charming gift for guests or neighbors during the celebration season.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep the rolls soft and fresh. If you expect them to last longer, refrigeration will extend their shelf life for about a week, although a slight loss of softness may occur.
Freezing
These cinnamon rolls freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To bring your rolls back to that warm, gooey perfection, reheat them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. Adding a little sprinkle of water on top before reheating can help maintain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of self-rising flour?
Absolutely! Just add 1½ teaspoons baking powder and ¼ teaspoon salt to every cup of all-purpose flour to mimic self-rising flour’s leavening power.
Is Greek yogurt necessary, or can I substitute it?
Greek yogurt gives the dough its moisture and slight tang, but plain regular or fat-free yogurt works just as well. Avoid flavored yogurts as they can change the flavor profile.
Can I make these cinnamon rolls dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the butter for coconut oil and use a non-dairy milk such as almond or oat milk in the icing to keep the recipe dairy-free.
How can I make this recipe keto-friendly?
Try using powdered erythritol instead of confectioners’ sugar for the icing and a stevia blend or coconut sugar in the filling to reduce carbs while keeping that sweetness intact.
Do I have to use food coloring?
Food coloring is totally optional! Natural dyes or sprinkles can add festive color, but the rolls are equally delicious without any added colors.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Mardi Gras Cinnamon Rolls with Two Ingredient Dough Magic Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves quick, tasty, and festive baked goods. It’s the kind of recipe that feels special yet uncomplicated, allowing you to enjoy the celebration without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a go, and watch these colorful, fragrant rolls become an instant favorite in your home tradition!
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Easy Mardi Gras Cinnamon Rolls with Two Ingredient Dough Magic Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Easy Mardi Gras Cinnamon Rolls feature a simple two-ingredient dough made from self-rising flour and Greek yogurt, rolled with a cinnamon-brown sugar filling, baked to golden perfection, and topped with a smooth sugar glaze. Perfect for a festive breakfast or dessert with a fun Mardi Gras twist using optional food coloring and sprinkles.
Ingredients
Dough and Filling
- 2 cups Self-Rising Flour (can substitute with all-purpose flour plus baking powder)
- 1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt (regular or fat-free yogurt alternative)
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (coconut sugar or stevia blend as substitution)
- 1 tbsp Cinnamon (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup Melted Butter (coconut oil for dairy-free option)
- 1 cup Sugar or Stevia (use any granulated sweetener)
Glaze
- 1 cup Confectioners’ Sugar (powdered erythritol for keto-friendly version)
- 2 tbsp Milk (almond milk or any non-dairy milk alternative)
Optional
- Food Coloring (natural or omit)
- Colorful Homemade Sprinkles (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, blend 2 cups of self-rising flour with 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt until a soft dough forms. Once combined, knead gently on a floured surface for 1-2 minutes to develop a smooth consistency.
- Roll out the Dough: Using a rolling pin, flatten the dough evenly on a floured surface until it’s about ½ inch thick, creating a smooth rectangular sheet ready for filling.
- Apply Butter and Filling: Brush the entire surface of the flattened dough with 1/4 cup melted butter. Evenly sprinkle a mixture of 1 tbsp cinnamon and 1/2 cup brown sugar over the buttered dough for the classic cinnamon roll filling.
- Shape and Cut Rolls: Carefully roll the dough into a tight log shape, starting from one edge. Using a sharp knife, cut the dough log into 12 equal pieces. Place these rolls cut side up in a greased 8 x 8 inch baking dish, allowing space for expansion.
- Preheat and Bake: Preheat the oven to 365-375°F (185-190°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for approximately 25 minutes or until they turn golden brown on top and cooked through.
- Prepare the Icing: While the rolls bake, mix 1 cup confectioners’ sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk until smooth and pourable, forming a classic glaze to complement the rolls.
- Glaze and Garnish: Once the rolls have baked and slightly cooled, drizzle the prepared icing evenly over them. Sprinkle colorful homemade sprinkles on top to add a festive Mardi Gras touch before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute self-rising flour with all-purpose flour and 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder.
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil instead of butter and non-dairy milk for the glaze.
- Adjust cinnamon and sugar quantities to taste if a sweeter or spicier roll is preferred.
- Food coloring is optional; natural colorings like beet or turmeric powder work well for a homemade touch.
- These rolls are best served warm but can be reheated gently before enjoying leftovers.
