The scent of cinnamon wafts through the air, perfectly blending with the excitement of the upcoming Thanksgiving feast. As I gathered my loved ones in the kitchen, I couldn’t help but think of a delightful way to kick off our morning together. That’s when the idea of Cinnamon Roll Turkeys sparked joy—these whimsical creations not only bring a playful twist to the holiday table but are quick and easy to whip up! Perfect for everyone, from kids to adults, these adorable turkeys make sure breakfast is both fun and festive. Imagine the smiles as each person digs into their own cinnamon roll masterpiece adorned with crispy bacon feathers and sweet candy accents. Are you ready to turn your Thanksgiving breakfast into a memory everyone will cherish?
Why will you love Cinnamon Roll Turkeys?
Festive Fun: These adorable Cinnamon Roll Turkeys are the perfect way to infuse some creativity and joy into your Thanksgiving breakfast. Easy to Make: You’ll appreciate how quick and uncomplicated this recipe is, making it ideal for busy mornings. Family-Friendly: Kids will love helping to decorate their own turkeys with candy, turning breakfast into a fun activity. Delicious Combination: The warm cinnamon rolls paired with crispy bacon elevate the flavors, ensuring everyone will be coming back for more. Centerpiece Appeal: Not only are these treats tasty, but they also serve as a charming centerpiece, setting a festive tone for your holiday gathering. If you’re looking for more fun and delicious recipes, check out my Pumpkin Roll Cream or Cinnamon Bun Cookies.
Cinnamon Roll Turkeys Ingredients
For the Turkeys
• Refrigerated Cinnamon Rolls (17.5 oz can) – The base of your turkeys; opt for Pillsbury™ Grands!™ for maximum fluffiness.
• Bacon (10 slices) – Adds a savory crunch; turkey bacon can be used for a healthier alternative.
• Candy Eyeballs (10) – Perfect for festive decoration; swap with chocolate chips if desired.
• Candy Corn (5 pieces) – For bright, colorful accents; feel free to use similarly-sized candies instead.
• Red Mini Candy-Coated Chocolate Candies (5) – Adds a fun touch to the turkey’s wattle; any small red candy works as a substitute.
• Mini Pretzel Sticks (15, cut in half) – Mimics turkey feet; consider using small candy sticks for a sweet option.
These whimsical Cinnamon Roll Turkeys will surely make your Thanksgiving morning memorable!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Turkeys
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your Cinnamon Roll Turkeys bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown. While the oven heats up, prepare a cookie sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls
Open the can of refrigerated cinnamon rolls and carefully set the icing aside for later use. Separate the dough into five rolls and place them on the prepared cookie sheet, ensuring they are spaced at least three inches apart for optimal baking. Gently unroll each roll about an inch and tuck the dough to create the neck of each turkey.
Step 3: Bake the Rolls
Slide the cookie sheet into the preheated oven and bake the cinnamon rolls for 19 to 21 minutes. Keep an eye on them—you’re looking for a lovely golden-brown color and a delicious aroma filling your kitchen. Once baked, remove the rolls and let them cool on a wire rack for about five minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Bacon
While the cinnamon rolls cool, take your bacon and cook it in a skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes. Be sure to drain the cooked bacon on paper towels to absorb excess grease. After cooling, cut each slice in half to use for the turkey tail feathers.
Step 5: Assemble the Turkeys
Once your cinnamon rolls have cooled slightly, spread the reserved icing generously over the tops of each roll. This sweet icing will serve as the perfect adhesive for your decorations. Tuck four bacon halves into the back of each roll to imitate turkey tail feathers, giving your Cinnamon Roll Turkeys a delightful and festive appearance.
Step 6: Decorate the Turkeys
Now it’s time to let your creativity shine! Use candy eyeballs to give each turkey a playful face, then add a piece of candy corn for a colorful beak. For the turkey’s wattle, place small red candy-coated chocolate candies underneath the eyeballs, making each creation as charming as it is delicious.
Step 7: Add the Feet
To finish your Cinnamon Roll Turkeys, take the halved mini pretzel sticks and gently insert them underneath each roll, simulating the turkey’s feet. This fun touch completes the whimsical look of your turkeys, adding both detail and crunch to your delightful Thanksgiving treat.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Now that your adorable Cinnamon Roll Turkeys are all set, gather everyone around the table to admire your festive creations! Serve them warm as a delightful breakfast treat or centerpiece for your Thanksgiving spread, ensuring smiles all around as everyone enjoys their own unique turkey.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Turkeys
Treat your family to a delightful Thanksgiving feast by pairing these adorable Cinnamon Roll Turkeys with dishes that enhance their charm and flavor.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture perfectly balances the savory bacon, making each bite a comforting experience.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: Add a touch of sweetness that complements the cinnamon rolls and creates a delightful breakfast twist.
Crispy Breakfast Sausages: The hearty flavor of sausage links adds a nice contrast to the sweet rolls, providing a satisfying savory element.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits brings refreshing brightness to the table, adding a burst of color that enhances the festive spirit.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: A cozy, spiced drink made with espresso or coffee that elevates the meal experience, tying together those warm Thanksgiving flavors.
Mini Cinnamon Rolls: For an additional layer of fun, serve a platter of mini cinnamon rolls that everyone can enjoy while nibbling on their turkey creations.
Hot Cocoa with Whipped Cream: Perfect for warming up, this sweet beverage adds a comforting touch alongside the playful turkeys, making each bite unforgettable.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Roll Turkeys are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free Thanksgiving morning! You can assemble the turkeys (without baking) and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours; simply cover the tray tightly with plastic wrap to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven and pop the cinnamon roll turkeys straight into the oven without thawing. For the toppings, you can prepare the bacon and candy decorations in advance, storing them in separate airtight containers to keep them fresh. Once baked, decorate your turkeys and serve, ensuring they’re just as delicious and delightful as if made fresh that morning!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll Turkeys
Space Matters: Ensure your cinnamon rolls are spaced adequately on the baking sheet to prevent merging during baking for perfectly formed turkeys.
Bacon Caution: Keep a close eye on the bacon while it cooks to avoid burning; you’re aiming for crispy perfection that complements the cinnamon rolls nicely.
Secure Decorations: Use toothpicks or small knives to help position the candy decorations securely on the rolls, ensuring your Cinnamon Roll Turkeys look just right.
Icing Goal: Don’t skimp on the icing—it not only enhances the flavor but also acts as an adhesive for all those delightful decorations!
Cool Time: Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool for a few minutes after baking to set their shape better before decorating, helping maintain their whimsical turkey form.
Variations & Substitutions for Cinnamon Roll Turkeys
Feel free to unleash your inner creativity and customize these delightful Cinnamon Roll Turkeys to fit your family’s taste and dietary preferences!
Bacon-Free: Substitute with diced apples for sweetness in every bite. This fruity twist introduces a delightful contrast, perfect for those seeking a lighter treat.
Chocolate Lovers: Use chocolate icing instead of standard icing for a richer, more decadent flavor. Imagine the joy as everyone discovers the delicious surprise underneath!
Sprinkle Fest: Add colorful sprinkles to the icing for an extra festive touch. It makes these turkeys not only tastier but visually captivating as well!
Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the icing for added crunch and flavor depth. This subtle nuttiness pairs beautifully with the cinnamon rolls.
Heat It Up: Drizzle with a spicy maple syrup to give your Cinnamon Roll Turkeys a hint of warmth and excitement. This unexpected flavor will leave guests pleasantly surprised!
Non-Dairy Option: Use almond or coconut milk-based cream cheese frosting for a dairy-free alternative. You’ll maintain delightful creaminess while accommodating special diets.
Mini Versions: Make mini Cinnamon Roll Turkeys using smaller cinnamon roll dough or homemade dough for bite-sized treats! They make for an adorable addition to any Thanksgiving spread.
Fruit Addition: Layer slices of fresh bananas or strawberries along with the candy decorations. This fruity addition complements the cinnamon flavor beautifully, combining both nutrition and taste!
Embrace the fun and creativity in the kitchen! And if you’re looking for more scrumptious ideas, don’t forget to check out my recipes for Cinnamon Roll Cake and Hawaiian Roll French.
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Turkeys
Room Temperature: Keep Cinnamon Roll Turkeys in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft texture and freshness.
Fridge: If you want to store them longer, place the turkeys in the fridge where they will stay good for up to 5 days. Ensure they are tightly wrapped or in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer-lasting treats, freeze your Cinnamon Roll Turkeys for up to 2 months. Wrap each turkey tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
Reheating: To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, restoring their delightful charm and flavor.
Cinnamon Roll Turkeys Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best cinnamon rolls?
For this recipe, I recommend using Pillsbury™ Grands!™ Cinnamon Rolls for the best flavor and fluffiness. Look for rolls that are fresh and have no dark spots or dents on the packaging. Fresh dough will yield the best results and ensure your turkeys rise beautifully!
What is the best way to store Cinnamon Roll Turkeys?
You can keep your Cinnamon Roll Turkeys in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store them longer, they’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent them from drying out!
Can I freeze my Cinnamon Roll Turkeys?
Absolutely! To freeze your Cinnamon Roll Turkeys, first, wrap each turkey tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
What should I do if my bacon doesn’t get crispy?
If your bacon isn’t coming out crispy, ensure you’re cooking it at medium to medium-high heat to allow it to render fat and crisp up. Be patient; it typically takes about 8 to 10 minutes. If it looks undercooked after that time, increase the heat slightly. You can also place it under the broiler for a minute or two while keeping a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, you can substitute bacon with turkey bacon for a leaner option. Additionally, feel free to use gluten-free cinnamon rolls if you need to cater to gluten sensitivities. Just ensure that all candies and ingredients are also gluten-free, especially for those with allergies!
What can I do if I don’t have candy eyeballs?
No problem! If candy eyeballs aren’t available, chocolate chips work wonderfully as an alternative. Just place a small dot of frosting in the center of each chocolate chip to mimic the eyes. You can also use mini marshmallows with a dot of black icing for a cute effect!
Cinnamon Roll Turkeys: A Festive Treat Everyone Will Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Open the can of refrigerated cinnamon rolls and set the icing aside for later use. Separate the dough into five rolls and place them on the prepared cookie sheet, spaced at least three inches apart.
- Gently unroll each roll about an inch and tuck the dough to create the neck of each turkey.
- Bake the cinnamon rolls for 19 to 21 minutes until golden brown. Let them cool on a wire rack for about five minutes.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy for about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain on paper towels and cut each slice in half.
- Spread the reserved icing over the tops of each roll, then tuck four bacon halves into the back of each roll to imitate turkey tail feathers.
- Use candy eyeballs to give each turkey a playful face, and add a piece of candy corn for the beak and red candies for the wattle.
- Insert the halved mini pretzel sticks underneath each roll to simulate the turkey feet.
- Serve warmed as a fun breakfast treat, ensuring smiles all around as everyone enjoys their unique turkey.