9 Cinnamon Roll Brands That Totally Miss the Mark And 8 That Taste Just Like Homemade

Cinnamon rolls are a beloved treat for many, but not all cinnamon rolls are created equal. Some brands promise a sweet, gooey delight but fall short, while others deliver a homemade taste that warms the heart. This blog post explores 9 cinnamon roll brands that miss the mark and 8 that taste just like homemade, examining what makes each unique and how they stack up against the competition.

1. Pillsbury Grands! Cinnamon Rolls (Original Icing)

Convenient? Certainly. Yet, Pillsbury Grands! Cinnamon Rolls often fall short. The rolls tend to be overly doughy, with a texture that many describe as more akin to bread than a pastry delight.

The cinnamon flavor is weak, overshadowed by the icing that resembles sugar glue more than a creamy vanilla frosting. While quick and accessible, these rolls lack the warmth and spice that many crave in a cinnamon roll.

Some home bakers may find them a convenient option, but the taste doesn’t quite reach the homemade charm. A classic case of convenience over quality.

2. Great Value Cinnamon Rolls (Walmart)

Budget-friendly doesn’t always equate to flavorful. The Great Value Cinnamon Rolls from Walmart manage to hit the wallet softly but miss the mark elsewhere.

These rolls are criticized for their lack of rich flavor and the absence of the fluffy texture one desires. The cinnamon flavor barely makes an appearance, overshadowed by the thin, almost watery icing.

Though attractive to the thrifty shopper, these rolls fail to deliver the depth and warmth expected. Sometimes, saving a few pennies is not worth the compromise in taste and texture.

3. Annie’s Organic Cinnamon Rolls

Annie’s Organic Cinnamon Rolls promise wholesome ingredients but leave much to be desired in taste. While the organic label catches the eye, the rolls themselves are often dry and lack the soft, gooey texture cinnamon rolls are loved for.

The flavor profile is oddly tangy, a stark contrast to the expected sweet and spicy notes. The icing, unfortunately, adds little to the experience with its blandness.

While a noble attempt at an organic option, these rolls don’t quite capture the essence of homemade comfort. A miss for those seeking natural yet flavorful delights.

4. Immaculate Baking Co. Cinnamon Rolls

Clean ingredients are the hallmark of Immaculate Baking Co. Cinnamon Rolls, yet they don’t quite satisfy the craving for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. These rolls bake up to be surprisingly firm, lacking the soft, pull-apart texture that many desire.

The cinnamon flavor seems to hide within the dense dough, leaving the taste rather unremarkable. Despite the promise of purity, the rolls miss delivering that comforting cinnamon warmth.

For those seeking an indulgence, the rolls might leave you wanting more—more softness, more spice, and more overall satisfaction.

5. Market Pantry Cinnamon Rolls (Target Brand)

When it comes to Market Pantry Cinnamon Rolls, the budget-friendly price often hints at what’s inside. These rolls, a Target brand staple, typically taste as economical as they are priced.

The dough is bland, lacking the sweet, spicy character one hopes for. The cinnamon swirl appears weak, barely imparting its essence. Moreover, the icing is so thin that it barely covers the rolls, leaving them dry and unappealing.

For those looking for indulgence, these rolls may leave the taste buds wanting, as they lack the richness expected of a true cinnamon roll delight.

6. Trader Joe’s Jumbo Cinnamon Rolls

Trader Joe’s Jumbo Cinnamon Rolls look promising in size but fail to deliver on flavor. Out of the can, they appear delightful, but after baking, they are tough and chewy.

The cinnamon flavor barely registers, overshadowed by the doughiness. What these rolls offer in size, they lack in taste, making them a surprising disappointment.

For fans of this brand, the potential is there, but these rolls miss the cozy, comforting experience most associate with cinnamon rolls. A lesson that bigger isn’t always better when it comes to flavor.

7. 7-Eleven Cinnamon Roll

7-Eleven’s cinnamon roll, a staple in convenience store breakfast selections, often misses the mark. Offered cold, these rolls carry a texture that’s more gummy than soft.

The sweetness level is off the charts, lacking the balance of flavors that a well-made cinnamon roll should have. While it might satisfy a sugar craving in a pinch, it doesn’t deliver the warm, spicy embrace that fans of cinnamon rolls seek.

For those on the go, convenience wins over quality in this case, making it more a sugar rush than a satisfying treat.

8. Rhodes AnyTime Cinnamon Rolls

Rhodes AnyTime Cinnamon Rolls entice with the promise of convenience, but patience is required. These freezer rolls take their time to rise and bake, sometimes leading to disappointment.

Once out of the oven, they often reveal a dry interior, with an icing that tips the scales towards overly sweet rather than creamy. Despite the name, they’re not quite ‘AnyTime’ if you crave that perfect, fresh-baked quality.

For those willing to wait, the rolls might not fulfill the craving for a homemade-like experience. A reminder that sometimes, time doesn’t equate to taste.

9. Krispy Kreme Cinnamon Roll (Packaged Version)

Krispy Kreme’s cinnamon roll, in its packaged version, takes a detour from the fresh-baked delight many associate with the brand. These shelf-stable rolls often taste more of cardboard than of cinnamon.

The frosting, a crucial component, fails to add the expected creamy sweetness, leaving the overall experience lackluster. For fans of the brand’s fresh offerings, these packaged rolls might disappoint.

A reminder that shelf life can sometimes strip away the delightful essence of a beloved treat, leaving behind a shadow of what could be.

10. Cinnabon (Frozen Rolls or Bakery Pack)

Cinnabon remains the gold standard for many cinnamon roll enthusiasts. Their frozen rolls or bakery packs deliver what fans crave: soft, buttery dough and an irresistible cream cheese frosting.

The rolls are generously sized, perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth or treating guests. Each bite offers a rich cinnamon flavor, ensuring that homemade feel.

For those seeking a cinnamon roll that embodies the heartwarming essence of a bakery treat, Cinnabon never fails to deliver. A fusion of tradition and indulgence that brings comfort and joy with each taste.

11. Rhodes Bake-N-Serv Cinnamon Rolls

The Rhodes Bake-N-Serv Cinnamon Rolls, when baked to perfection, offer a truly homemade experience. These rolls require proper rising time, rewarding patience with soft, pillowy texture.

The included real cream cheese frosting adds a touch of luxury, complementing the rich cinnamon swirls. They strike a perfect balance between sweetness and spice.

For those willing to invest a little time, these rolls provide an authentic, bakery-like delight. A testament to the virtue of patience and the rewards of baking with care and love.

12. La Boulangerie Cinnamon Swirls

La Boulangerie Cinnamon Swirls offer a delightful twist on the traditional cinnamon roll. Their pastry-like texture is flaky and buttery, providing a more refined take on a beloved classic.

Not overly sweet, these swirls make an excellent addition to any brunch or afternoon tea, offering a sophisticated touch. The cinnamon flavor is well-balanced, giving a gentle nod to tradition.

For those seeking something a bit different, these cinnamon swirls provide elegance and taste. A perfect fusion of French pastry flair with American comfort, making them a delightful indulgence.

13. Bakery Fresh Goodness Cinnamon Rolls

Bakery Fresh Goodness Cinnamon Rolls from stores like Meijer and Kroger deliver surprising quality. These store-bought delights offer a fluffy, well-balanced experience.

The cinnamon warmth permeates each bite, not too sweet, but perfectly spiced. The generous icing adds a creamy touch, without overwhelming the senses.

For those seeking convenience without compromising on taste, these rolls are a pleasant surprise. A testament to the idea that great cinnamon rolls can be found in unexpected places, offering a comforting touch of homemade goodness.

14. Cinnaholic Take-and-Bake Rolls

Cinnaholic’s take-and-bake rolls invite creativity with their customizable frosting options. These rolls are loaded with bold flavor, offering a unique twist on the cinnamon roll tradition.

The dough is soft and inviting, while the frosting can be tailored to personal tastes, from classic vanilla to adventurous flavors. Their versatility makes them a favorite for those who love to experiment.

An exciting choice for cinnamon roll enthusiasts looking to put a personal spin on their treat, these rolls capture the spirit of indulgence and customization beautifully.

15. King Arthur Baking Company Cinnamon Roll Mix

The King Arthur Baking Company Cinnamon Roll Mix demands a bit more effort, but the results are worth it. Once baked, these rolls reveal a texture and flavor that rivals any homemade recipe.

The gooey cinnamon swirl is the star, wrapped in a soft, tender dough. The mix invites bakers to indulge in the process, with a rewarding outcome.

For those who delight in culinary adventures, this roll mix offers both challenge and satisfaction. A celebration of baking craftsmanship that brings the warmth of a home kitchen to life.

16. Wildgrain Cinnamon Rolls

Wildgrain Cinnamon Rolls provide a premium, sourdough-based option for the discerning palate. Offered through a subscription box, these rolls are fully proofed and ready to bake.

The sourdough adds a unique tang, complementing the classic cinnamon sweetness. The rolls bake up to be bakery-fresh, offering a taste of luxury in every bite.

Though not the cheapest option, these rolls are impressive and elevate the cinnamon roll experience. For those willing to invest in quality, Wildgrain delivers a gourmet delight that satisfies both traditional and modern tastes.

17. Costco Bakery Cinnamon Rolls

Costco Bakery Cinnamon Rolls are known for being large and in charge. These generously sized rolls are fluffy and indulgent, perfect for a dessert-like breakfast.

The frosting is applied with a generous hand, ensuring each bite is satisfyingly sweet. While more dessert than breakfast, they offer a decadent start to any day.

For those who appreciate a hearty cinnamon roll, Costco delivers in both size and taste. A delightful option for those entertaining guests or simply craving a big, comforting treat.