The Perfect Maple Cream Cheese Cinnamon Roll Frosting

The first time I topped warm cinnamon rolls with this maple cream cheese frosting, my family fell silent – that magical quiet that only happens when food is so good, no one wants to pause for conversation. This simple yet decadent frosting transforms ordinary cinnamon rolls into a bakery-worthy treat with its perfect balance of tangy cream cheese, butter richness, and pure maple sweetness. Ready in just 5 minutes with ingredients you likely have on hand, this frosting is the finishing touch your homemade (or even store-bought) cinnamon rolls have been missing.

A pan of homemade cinnamon rolls with maple cream cheese frosting.

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Why This Recipe Works

The magic of this maple cream cheese frosting lies in its carefully balanced ingredients. Starting with softened (not melted) cream cheese and butter ensures a silky-smooth texture, free from lumps. The combination of powdered sugar and real maple syrup creates a frosting that is sweet but not cloying, while the addition of vanilla and milk brings everything together with the perfect spreadable consistency. Applied to slightly warm cinnamon rolls, it creates a half-melted glaze effect that seeps partially into the rolls while maintaining a creamy top layer.

Ingredients

  • Cream cheese – Provides tangy richness and creamy base for the frosting
  • Butter – Adds silky texture and rich mouthfeel
  • Powdered sugar – Creates smooth sweetness without graininess
  • Vanilla extract – Enhances flavor with aromatic warmth
  • Milk – Adjusts consistency for perfect spreadability
  • Maple syrup – Contributes distinctive flavor and natural sweetness

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Place 4 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup softened butter in a medium mixing bowl. Ensure both ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
  2. Beat the cream cheese and butter together using an electric mixer on medium speed until completely smooth and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
  3. Gradually add 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, mixing on low speed initially to prevent a sugary cloud, then increasing to medium speed once incorporated.
  4. Add 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract and 3 tablespoons maple syrup to the mixture.
  5. Mix until fully combined and smooth.
  6. Add 1 1/2 teaspoons of milk and beat until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
  7. Spread the frosting generously over slightly cooled cinnamon rolls, allowing it to partially melt into the warm rolls.
Homemade cinnamon rolls with maple cream cheese frosting in a pan and on a plate.
A pan of homemade cinnamon rolls with maple cream cheese frosting.

Maple Cream Cheese Cinnamon Roll Frosting

A decadent, creamy frosting with the perfect balance of tangy cream cheese and sweet maple
5 from 2 votes
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Course: Breads
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Cinnamon Roll Icing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 12
Calories: 140kcal

Ingredients

  • 4 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1/4 cup butter softened
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tablespoon vanilla
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon milk
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup

Instructions

  • Mix all ingredients together well. Spread over the rolls that have cooled slightly.

Notes

The secret to perfectly smooth frosting is starting with truly softened cream cheese and butter. Let them sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before beginning. For an even more pronounced maple flavor, try using dark amber maple syrup or add 1/4 teaspoon of maple extract. If you prefer a thicker frosting for fully cooled rolls, simply reduce the milk to 1/2 teaspoon. For a special occasion variation, try folding in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts after mixing for added texture and nutty flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 140kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 0g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 20mg | Sodium: 65mg | Potassium: 24mg | Sugar: 18g | Vitamin A: 245IU | Calcium: 16mg | Iron: 0mg

Cinnamon roll recipes to use this frosting with

Find lots of DIY recipes right here on CopyKat!

Two homemade cinnamon rolls with maple cream cheese frosting, a cup of coffee, and the rolls in a pan.

About Stephanie Manley

Stephanie Manley is the creator of CopyKat.com. She has been recreating copycat recipes since 1995. Learn more about Stephanie Manley.

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