Wendy’s Cinnabon Pull-Aparts: Delicious Copycat Recipes and Creative Culinary Uses
Wendy’s recent collaboration with Cinnabon has introduced a delightful new treat to their menu: the Cinnabon Pull-Aparts. These warm, gooey, cinnamon-infused pastries are incredibly tempting, and it’s no surprise that people are looking for ways to recreate them at home or incorporate them into other delicious dishes. This article explores several copycat recipes for Wendy’s Cinnabon Pull-Aparts and also delves into some innovative ways you can use these treats in your culinary creations.
What Makes Wendy’s Cinnabon Pull-Aparts So Special?
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s analyze what makes these pull-aparts so irresistible. It’s the combination of several factors:
* **Soft, Fluffy Dough:** The foundation of any good pastry is the dough. Wendy’s version uses a dough that’s light, airy, and slightly sweet.
* **Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl:** A generous swirl of cinnamon and sugar is layered throughout the dough, creating pockets of intense flavor.
* **Cream Cheese Frosting:** The tangy and sweet cream cheese frosting drizzled on top adds a rich, decadent finish.
* **Warmth and Freshness:** Served warm, the pull-aparts are incredibly comforting and satisfying.
Copycat Recipes for Wendy’s Cinnabon Pull-Aparts
Here are a few different approaches you can take to make your own version of Wendy’s Cinnabon Pull-Aparts. We’ll start with a simplified recipe and then move on to more advanced techniques.
Recipe 1: Quick and Easy Pull-Aparts Using Canned Biscuits
This recipe is perfect for when you’re short on time but still craving that Cinnabon flavor. It utilizes canned biscuit dough, making it incredibly quick and easy.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (16-ounce) can refrigerated biscuit dough (e.g., Pillsbury Grands!)
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
* 1/4 cup melted butter
**For the Cream Cheese Frosting:**
* 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1/4 cup powdered sugar
* 1 tablespoon milk
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture:** In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Mix well and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Dough:** Open the can of biscuit dough. Separate each biscuit and cut it into quarters.
3. **Assemble the Pull-Aparts:** Dip each piece of biscuit dough into the melted butter, then dredge it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring it’s well coated.
4. **Arrange in a Baking Dish:** Grease a 9-inch round baking dish or a similar-sized baking pan. Arrange the coated biscuit pieces in the baking dish, spreading them evenly.
5. **Bake:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pull-aparts are golden brown and cooked through. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
6. **Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:** While the pull-aparts are baking, make the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting is light and creamy.
7. **Frost and Serve:** Once the pull-aparts are out of the oven, let them cool slightly (about 5-10 minutes). Drizzle the cream cheese frosting evenly over the warm pull-aparts. Serve immediately and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* For extra flavor, add a pinch of salt to the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
* You can also add chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for added texture.
* If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, you can use a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk.
* To make these even easier, use store-bought cream cheese frosting.
Recipe 2: Semi-Homemade Pull-Aparts Using Frozen Dinner Rolls
This recipe strikes a balance between convenience and homemade flavor. It uses frozen dinner rolls as a base, allowing you to skip the process of making dough from scratch while still achieving a delicious result.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (16-ounce) package frozen dinner rolls, thawed but still cold
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
* 1/4 cup melted butter
**For the Cream Cheese Frosting:**
* 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1/4 cup powdered sugar
* 1 tablespoon milk
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture:** In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Mix well and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Dough:** Lightly flour a clean work surface. Roll each dinner roll into a rope about 6-8 inches long. Then, roll the rope into a spiral shape, resembling a small cinnamon roll.
3. **Assemble the Pull-Aparts:** Dip each spiral into the melted butter, then dredge it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring it’s well coated.
4. **Arrange in a Baking Dish:** Grease a 9-inch round baking dish or a similar-sized baking pan. Arrange the coated spirals in the baking dish, leaving a little space between each one.
5. **Let Rise:** Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and let the pull-aparts rise in a warm place for about 30-45 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.
6. **Bake:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pull-aparts are golden brown and cooked through. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
7. **Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:** While the pull-aparts are baking, make the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting is light and creamy.
8. **Frost and Serve:** Once the pull-aparts are out of the oven, let them cool slightly (about 5-10 minutes). Drizzle the cream cheese frosting evenly over the warm pull-aparts. Serve immediately and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* Before rolling the dinner rolls, you can brush them with a little extra melted butter for added richness.
* For a more pronounced cinnamon flavor, add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
* If you want a slightly tangier frosting, add a squeeze of lemon juice to the cream cheese frosting.
Recipe 3: From-Scratch Cinnabon Pull-Aparts
For the most authentic and satisfying result, this recipe involves making the dough from scratch. While it requires more time and effort, the superior flavor and texture are well worth it.
**Ingredients:**
**For the Dough:**
* 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
* 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 large egg
* 3 1/4 – 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
**For the Filling:**
* 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
**For the Cream Cheese Frosting:**
* 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup powdered sugar
* 2 tablespoons milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough:** In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy.
2. **Add the Remaining Ingredients:** Add the melted butter, remaining sugar, salt, and egg to the yeast mixture. Mix well to combine.
3. **Gradually Add the Flour:** Gradually add the flour, starting with 3 1/4 cups. Mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it’s smooth and elastic but still slightly tacky.
4. **Knead the Dough:** Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead the dough in a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes.
5. **First Rise:** Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
6. **Prepare the Filling:** While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well until it forms a smooth paste.
7. **Assemble the Pull-Aparts:** Punch down the risen dough to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches.
8. **Spread the Filling:** Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border along one of the long edges.
9. **Roll Up the Dough:** Starting from the long edge opposite the border, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
10. **Cut into Slices:** Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12-15 equal slices.
11. **Arrange in a Baking Dish:** Grease a 9-inch round baking dish or a similar-sized baking pan. Arrange the cinnamon roll slices in the baking dish, leaving a little space between each one.
12. **Second Rise:** Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and let the pull-aparts rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up slightly.
13. **Bake:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pull-aparts are golden brown and cooked through. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
14. **Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:** While the pull-aparts are baking, make the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting is light and creamy.
15. **Frost and Serve:** Once the pull-aparts are out of the oven, let them cool slightly (about 5-10 minutes). Drizzle the cream cheese frosting evenly over the warm pull-aparts. Serve immediately and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a richer dough, use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour.
* You can add a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg to the dough for a more complex flavor.
* If you don’t have time for a second rise, you can bake the pull-aparts immediately after arranging them in the baking dish, but they may not be as light and fluffy.
* To prevent the tops from browning too quickly, you can cover the baking dish with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Creative Culinary Uses for Cinnabon Pull-Aparts
Beyond enjoying them as a standalone treat, Cinnabon Pull-Aparts can be used in a variety of creative culinary applications. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Cinnabon Pull-Apart French Toast Casserole
Transform your pull-aparts into a decadent French toast casserole. Cut the pull-aparts into cubes and arrange them in a baking dish. Pour a mixture of eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract over the top and bake until golden brown and puffy. The cinnamon-sugar flavor of the pull-aparts will infuse the entire casserole, creating a truly unforgettable breakfast or brunch dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 6-8 Cinnabon Pull-Aparts (homemade or store-bought), cut into 1-inch cubes
* 6 large eggs
* 1 1/2 cups milk
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* Pinch of salt
* Optional toppings: maple syrup, whipped cream, fresh berries
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. **Arrange Pull-Aparts:** Spread the cubed Cinnabon Pull-Aparts evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. **Whisk Egg Mixture:** In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
4. **Pour Over Pull-Aparts:** Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cubed pull-aparts, making sure all the pieces are moistened. Gently press down on the pull-aparts to help them soak up the mixture.
5. **Let Soak (Optional):** For a richer, more custard-like casserole, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. This allows the pull-aparts to fully absorb the egg mixture.
6. **Bake:** Bake the casserole for 35-40 minutes, or until it is golden brown and puffy. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
7. **Cool Slightly and Serve:** Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Top with maple syrup, whipped cream, fresh berries, or any other desired toppings.
Cinnabon Pull-Apart Bread Pudding
Similar to the French toast casserole, bread pudding is another great way to repurpose Cinnabon Pull-Aparts. The rich, custardy texture of bread pudding pairs perfectly with the cinnamon-sugar sweetness of the pull-aparts. You can add dried fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
**Ingredients:**
* 6-8 Cinnabon Pull-Aparts (homemade or store-bought), cut into 1-inch cubes
* 3 large eggs
* 1 1/2 cups milk
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* Pinch of salt
* 1/2 cup raisins or other dried fruit (optional)
* 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. **Arrange Pull-Aparts:** Spread the cubed Cinnabon Pull-Aparts evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with raisins and nuts, if using.
3. **Whisk Custard:** In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
4. **Pour Over Pull-Aparts:** Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cubed pull-aparts, making sure all the pieces are moistened. Gently press down on the pull-aparts to help them soak up the mixture.
5. **Let Soak:** Let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, to allow the pull-aparts to absorb the custard. Press down occasionally to ensure even soaking.
6. **Bake:** Bake the bread pudding for 40-45 minutes, or until it is golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
7. **Cool Slightly and Serve:** Let the bread pudding cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. You can serve it warm or at room temperature. Top with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar, if desired.
Cinnabon Pull-Apart Ice Cream Sandwiches
For a fun and indulgent dessert, use Cinnabon Pull-Aparts as the “bread” for ice cream sandwiches. Cut the pull-aparts in half horizontally and sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream in between. Roll the edges in sprinkles, chopped nuts, or chocolate shavings for extra flair. This is a great way to use leftover pull-aparts or to create a unique dessert for a party.
**Ingredients:**
* 4-6 Cinnabon Pull-Aparts (homemade or store-bought)
* 1 pint of your favorite ice cream, softened slightly
* Optional toppings: sprinkles, chopped nuts, chocolate shavings, mini chocolate chips
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Pull-Aparts:** If the pull-aparts are very large, cut them in half horizontally to create two thinner layers. If they are smaller, you can use them whole.
2. **Scoop Ice Cream:** Scoop a generous amount of ice cream onto one half of each pull-apart.
3. **Sandwich Together:** Top with the other half of the pull-apart to create a sandwich. Gently press down to secure the ice cream.
4. **Add Toppings (Optional):** Roll the edges of the ice cream sandwiches in sprinkles, chopped nuts, chocolate shavings, or any other desired toppings.
5. **Freeze (Optional):** If you want the sandwiches to be firmer, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the ice cream sandwiches immediately and enjoy!
Cinnabon Pull-Apart Trifle
Create a layered dessert masterpiece by incorporating Cinnabon Pull-Aparts into a trifle. Cube the pull-aparts and layer them with whipped cream, custard, berries, and other sweet treats in a large glass bowl or trifle dish. The different textures and flavors will create a visually stunning and delicious dessert.
**Ingredients:**
* 6-8 Cinnabon Pull-Aparts (homemade or store-bought), cut into 1-inch cubes
* 2 cups whipped cream
* 2 cups vanilla custard
* 1 pint fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
* Optional: chocolate shavings, chopped nuts, caramel sauce
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Ingredients:** Cut the Cinnabon Pull-Aparts into cubes. Wash and prepare the fresh berries.
2. **Layer Ingredients:** In a large glass bowl or trifle dish, create layers in the following order: Cinnabon Pull-Apart cubes, whipped cream, vanilla custard, fresh berries.
3. **Repeat Layers:** Repeat the layers, starting with the pull-apart cubes, until all the ingredients are used. The top layer should be whipped cream and berries.
4. **Chill (Optional):** Cover the trifle and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours, to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. **Garnish and Serve:** Before serving, garnish the trifle with chocolate shavings, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of caramel sauce, if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cinnabon Pull-Apart Monkey Bread
Take the pull-apart concept to the next level by creating a Cinnabon Pull-Apart Monkey Bread. Arrange the coated dough balls in a bundt pan and bake until golden brown. The result is a sticky, sweet, and shareable treat that’s perfect for gatherings.
**Ingredients:**
* Follow the dough and cinnamon-sugar coating instructions from the from-scratch recipe above. Use approximately 3 cups of flour for the dough.
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* Optional: 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Dough:** Prepare the dough as instructed in the from-scratch recipe. Let it rise until doubled.
2. **Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture:** Combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
3. **Assemble Monkey Bread:** Punch down the risen dough. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls.
4. **Coat Dough Balls:** Dip each dough ball in melted butter, then roll in cinnamon-sugar mixture.
5. **Layer in Bundt Pan:** Grease a bundt pan thoroughly. Sprinkle half the nuts on the bottom of the pan, if using. Arrange the coated dough balls in the bundt pan in layers. Sprinkle remaining nuts over the dough balls, if using.
6. **Second Rise:** Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
7. **Bake:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown. Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
8. **Invert and Serve:** Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Invert onto a serving plate. Serve warm.
Conclusion
Wendy’s Cinnabon Pull-Aparts are a delightful treat that has inspired home cooks to recreate their own versions and explore creative ways to use them in other dishes. Whether you opt for a quick and easy recipe using canned biscuits or a more ambitious from-scratch version, the possibilities are endless. From French toast casseroles to ice cream sandwiches, these pull-aparts can be transformed into a variety of delicious and satisfying creations. So, get in the kitchen and start experimenting – you might just discover your new favorite dessert!