How Long Are Cinnamon Rolls Good For?
Do you ever buy too many cinnamon rolls only to realize that you won’t be able to eat them all? With one bite of a warm, gooey cinnamon roll, it’s hard not to devour the entire batch in one sitting. But what if you’d like to save some for later?
How long are cinnamon rolls good for once prepared? You can store cinnamon rolls at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge for up to a week. Whatever method you use, make sure to keep the rolls in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
In this blog post, we will answer this question and provide tips on how best to extend the freshness of your homemade or store-bought cinnamon rolls. Read on for more!
How Long Do Cinnamon Rolls Last?
Like most baked goods, cinnamon rolls have a shelf life that can depend on several factors, such as the storage method and the temperature.
The best way to store fresh cinnamon rolls is in an airtight container or a tightly sealed plastic bag. This will help prevent moisture, which can cause the rolls to become stale more quickly.
If you plan on consuming the cinnamon rolls within a couple of days, storing them at room temperature is fine. Ideally, the temperature should be around 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit. If your kitchen is too warm, it can make the rolls go stale much faster.
If you want to keep them fresher for a longer time, consider storing them in the refrigerator or even the freezer.
Storing cinnamon rolls in the refrigerator can extend their life up to a week. Make sure to wrap them in saran wrap or keep them in an airtight container before placing them in the fridge. If you want to store them even longer, up to three months, the freezer is your best option.
However, the freezer and the refrigerator may still dry out the cinnamon rolls. That’s why proper storage is the key to keeping them fresh.
How to Store Cinnamon Rolls
Regardless of where you store cinnamon rolls, proper storage is key to keeping cinnamon rolls deliciously fresh and moist. Let’s look at several ways that you can store cinnamon rolls for the freshest taste.
1. At Room Temperature
If you plan on eating your cinnamon rolls within a day or two, it’s safe to store them at room temperature.
Place the rolls in an airtight container (such as a Tupperware box or a Ziploc bag) or cover them with plastic wrap. This will keep them from becoming dry and stale. Avoid leaving them uncovered for too long, as this can also attract bugs and accumulate dust.
Then, you can safely leave them on your counter for up to two days.
During the summer months, your kitchen can get very warm during the day. If the room temperature exceeds 70 degrees, it is best to keep cinnamon rolls in the fridge so that they won’t become stale.
2. In the Refrigerator
If you want your cinnamon rolls to last a bit longer, you can store them in the fridge. This method will extend their shelf life up to a week.
Wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or in a sealed container to prevent them from picking up any odors or becoming dry as well. When you’re ready to eat them, remove them from the fridge and let them heat to room temperature before reheating.
3. Freezer Storage
If you want to store cinnamon rolls for even longer (up to 3 months), freezing is the way to go.
The key to successful freezing is wrapping them properly to avoid freezer burn. You can wrap them with plastic wrap or place them in airtight containers.
If you choose to store the rolls in a container, make sure to leave enough space for expansion, as the rolls will likely rise during freezing.
Then, you can freeze the rolls for up to three months. Make sure to label the container before freezing so that you always consume them before they go bad.
When you are ready to enjoy them, let them thaw to room temperature before reheating so that they won’t become soggy when reheated.
4. Additional Tips and Tricks
If you want to elevate your cinnamon roll storage game, here are some additional tips and tricks.
Firstly, avoid slicing them until you’re ready to eat them. The more you cut the rolls, the more surface area that’s exposed, which can dry out the cinnamon rolls.
Secondly, try to store them separately from any other foods with strong odors. Cinnamon rolls can easily absorb and take on the scent of other foods in close proximity.
Before storing, you can apply a light coat of butter to the rolls before storing them to help retain moisture. Additionally, you can add a small piece of bread to the container or bag to help absorb any excess moisture.
If you are freezing or refrigerating the rolls, always make sure your rolls are cooled to room temperature before storing them, as storing them while they are still warm can create condensation that can make them soggy.
If you are storing homemade rolls, you can freeze them before they’re fully baked, so you can finish them off fresh in the oven whenever you crave them.
Should You Store Cinnamon Rolls in the Fridge?
One of the reasons for storing cinnamon rolls in the fridge is that it can extend their shelf life. The cold temperature of the fridge can slow down the growth of harmful bacteria, which means your rolls will stay fresher for longer.
This is especially important if you’ve made a large batch of rolls and plan on enjoying them after a few days. Additionally, refrigerating your rolls can make them easier to slice and reheat, as the dough will be firmer and less likely to stick together.
On the other hand, some bakers argue that storing cinnamon rolls in the fridge can actually have a negative impact on their texture and taste. The cold temperature can cause the dough to dry out, making it less fluffy and more dense.
Additionally, refrigerated rolls can develop a stale or “fridge” flavor over time. Finally, storing your rolls in the fridge can potentially lead to the growth of yeast, which can cause an off-putting smell and taste.
So, is it better to store cinnamon rolls in the fridge or leave them out on the counter? The answer is… it depends.
For short-term storage (1-2 days), leaving the rolls on the counter is perfectly fine. Make sure to place them in an airtight container or plastic wrap, and they should stay fresh for a day or two. This method is also best for preserving their texture and flavor.
If you need to store your rolls for longer than two days, consider placing them in the fridge. Just be sure to tightly wrap them in plastic wrap or an airtight container to prevent any funky flavors from impacting the taste of your rolls.
How to Reheat Cinnamon Rolls
After storing, your cinnamon rolls can become dry and cold. Fortunately, there are ways to make them just as scrumptious as when they were first baked.
1. Oven Method
The oven is one of the most reliable methods when it comes to reheating cinnamon rolls.
To do this, preheat the oven to 350°F and wrap your cinnamon rolls in aluminum foil, making sure they are completely covered. Place them on a baking sheet and heat them in the oven for 10-15 minutes.
Check on them occasionally to ensure they don’t overheat or burn. Once they’re heated all the way through, take them out of the oven, and enjoy warm cinnamon rolls.
2. Microwave Method
If you’re in a hurry, using the microwave to reheat cinnamon rolls may be your best option. Cover your cinnamon rolls with a damp paper towel and microwave them on high for 10-15 seconds or until they are fully reheated.
You don’t want them to become rubbery, so be mindful of the timing. If your microwave has the option to choose the level of heating, go for medium to prevent overheating.
3. Toaster Oven Method
Another way to reheat cinnamon rolls is to use a toaster oven.
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cut the cinnamon roll into even pieces and place them on a baking sheet.
Bake in a toaster oven for 5-7 minutes or until the cinnamon rolls are heated through. You can also top them off with a bit of butter, frosting, or glaze for an added touch of sweetness.
4. Stovetop Skillet Method
If you’re looking for a unique way of reheating cinnamon rolls, then the stovetop skillet method may be just what you need.
Melt some butter in a non-stick skillet on medium heat, then place a cinnamon roll in the skillet, flat side down, and cook for about two minutes each side or until it’s crispy and golden brown. Repeat with the remaining rolls, and enjoy a warm, fresh-tasting cinnamon roll.
