As I set out to create a whimsical addition to our Thanksgiving feast, I stumbled upon a delightful concept: Cinnamon Roll Turkeys! These adorable treats are not only a feast for the eyes, but their warm and flaky texture is sure to capture the hearts—and taste buds—of everyone gathered around the table. What’s exceptional about these little turkeys is how quickly they come together, thanks to convenient Pillsbury™ Grands!™ Cinnamon Rolls. Plus, they’re an absolute crowd-pleaser, adding a playful twist to your holiday breakfast spread. With a touch of candy for decoration and savory bacon for a fun contrast, you’ll find that making these delightful Cinnamon Roll Turkeys is as enjoyable as eating them. Ready to gobble up some fun this Thanksgiving? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Make Cinnamon Roll Turkeys?
Fun Twist: These adorable treats add a playful flair to your Thanksgiving breakfast, making them a hit with both kids and adults!
Convenience: Utilizing Pillsbury™ Grands!™ Cinnamon Rolls means you can whip these up in no time, freeing you to focus on other holiday preparations or simply enjoying the festivities.
Savory-Sweet Balance: With crispy bacon tails juxtaposed against sweet icing, every bite brings a delightful contrast that tastes as good as it looks.
Customizable: You can easily swap out decorations or fillings, allowing for endless variations that fit your family’s preferences. Fancy chocolate? Try using chocolate frosting as a fun alternative or experiment with different candies for decoration.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s breakfast or dessert, these Cinnamon Roll Turkeys are sure to create smiles, making them perfect for gatherings. Make sure to check out our guide on the Art of Balancing Cinnamon for tips on enhancing flavor!
Cinnamon Roll Turkeys Ingredients
These delightful treats will make your Thanksgiving breakfast memorable!
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For the Base
• Pillsbury™ Grands!™ Cinnamon Rolls (17.5 oz, 5-count) – The perfect base for creating your fun Cinnamon Roll Turkeys, quick and reliable for busy mornings. -
For the Turkey Tails
• Bacon (10 slices) – Adds a delicious crunch and savory flavor that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of the rolls. -
For the Eyes and Beak
• Candy Eyeballs (10) – Fun and whimsical décor that brings your turkeys to life, appealing to the kids in your family.
• Candy Corn (5 pieces) – Brightens up the appearance and functions beautifully as an adorable turkey beak.
• Mini Candy-Coated Chocolate Candies (5) – Perfect for adding pops of color; consider using colored chocolate gems if you want a different look. -
For the Feet
• Mini Pretzel Sticks (15, cut in half) – Provide a fun texture and keep your turkeys standing tall on the plate.
Now, gather these ingredients and get ready to create the cutest Cinnamon Roll Turkeys that will make your Thanksgiving morning oh-so-special!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Turkeys
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. This will help the Cinnamon Roll Turkeys bake evenly without sticking. Make sure to set everything in a comfortable workspace, so you can easily access your ingredients and tools as you move through this fun recipe!
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls
Open the Pillsbury™ Grands!™ Cinnamon Rolls package and take out the icing, setting it aside for later. Carefully separate the rolls and place five spaced about three inches apart on the prepared cookie sheet. Unroll each roll about one inch from the top, tucking the dough at the base to create the turkey neck. This shaping is vital for the charming look of your Cinnamon Roll Turkeys.
Step 3: Bake the Turkeys
Slide the cookie sheet into your preheated oven and bake the Cinnamon Roll Turkeys for 19 to 21 minutes. They should turn a lovely light golden brown when done. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking, which can dry them out. When they’re perfectly baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a rack for about five minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Bacon
While your Cinnamon Roll Turkeys cool, cook the bacon until it’s crispy and golden. Use a skillet over medium heat, turning the slices frequently to avoid burning. Once they’re perfectly crispy, drain them on a paper towel, then slice each piece in half. You’ll need four halves for each roll to resemble the turkey’s tail feathers.
Step 5: Assemble the Cinnamon Roll Turkeys
Once the rolls have cooled slightly, it’s time to have fun! Spread a generous layer of icing over the tops of each Cinnamon Roll Turkey. Then, carefully tuck four bacon halves into the back of each roll, fanning them out to resemble tail feathers. This will accentuate the fun presentation of these whimsical treats.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Now grab your candy decorations! Place two candy eyeballs on each roll for a playful look, using the icing as glue if necessary. Take a piece of candy corn and gently press it where the beak should be. Finally, add a few mini candy-coated chocolate candies around the eyes for extra flair.
Step 7: Present and Serve
For the finishing touches, insert halved mini pretzel sticks into the front of each roll to create adorable little turkey feet. Arrange your Cinnamon Roll Turkeys on a festive platter, showcasing their cheerful and whimsical appearance. These sweet treats will be the centerpiece of your Thanksgiving breakfast table, inviting everyone to dig in!
Expert Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Roll Turkeys
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Crispy Bacon: Make sure your bacon is cooked until crispy. This adds texture and prevents the bacon from getting soggy when placed in the rolls.
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Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your Cinnamon Roll Turkeys while they bake. Remove them when they reach a light golden color to ensure they stay fluffy and moist.
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Prepare Decorations First: To make decorating easier, have all your candy and pretzel decorations ready before icing the rolls. This streamlines the process and makes assembly a breeze.
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Customize Flavors: Don’t hesitate to swap out bacon for other options like sausage or a plant-based alternative. Tailor the flavors to suit your family’s taste preferences for these Cinnamon Roll Turkeys.
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Serve Immediately: These whimsical treats are best enjoyed fresh. Plan to make them right before serving to keep them warm and delightful!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Turkeys?
Elevate your Thanksgiving breakfast feast by pairing these whimsical treats with delightful sides or drinks that complement their flavors and textures.
- Warm Apple Cider: This comforting drink adds a festive touch and perfectly balances the sweet, rich flavors of the cinnamon rolls.
- Crispy Hash Browns: Their salty crunch contrasts beautifully with the fluffy, sweet texture of the Cinnamon Roll Turkeys, creating a delightful mix on your plate.
- Seasonal Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of autumn fruits like apples, pears, and grapes will provide a burst of freshness and vibrant color.
- Maple Sausage Links: The savory sweetness of maple sausage beautifully complements the flavors of the rolls, enhancing the breakfast experience.
- Creamy Scrambled Eggs: These fluffy eggs add a savory note that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the Cinnamon Roll Turkeys.
- Hot Chocolate Bar: Set up a fun hot chocolate station, allowing guests to personalize their cups with marshmallows and whipped cream.
- Pumpkin Spice Muffins: Continue the seasonal theme with muffins that echo the rich flavors of fall, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
- Cinnamon Coffee: A delightful morning beverage, cinnamon coffee complements the rolls while enhancing their flavors.
- Whipped Cream Topping: Serve whipped cream on the side so everyone can add a dollop of creaminess to their Cinnamon Roll Turkeys.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Cinnamon Roll Turkeys are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the cinnamon rolls and bacon up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake the rolls, cool them completely, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the bacon, cook it until crispy, then slice and refrigerate it separately. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the rolls in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to revive their fluffiness. Assemble the turkeys by adding icing, bacon tails, and candy decorations just before serving to ensure everything stays fresh and visually appealing. This approach not only saves time but guarantees that your Cinnamon Roll Turkeys will be just as delicious and fun!
Cinnamon Roll Turkeys Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these Cinnamon Roll Turkeys to cater to your family’s taste buds!
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Sausage Swaps: Replace bacon with chopped sausage for a heartier, flavorful twist. The savory notes will add a delightful pop of flavor!
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Plant-Based Delight: Use plant-based bacon or sausage for a vegetarian-friendly option. This maintains the fun and festive flair while being considerate of dietary preferences.
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Chocolate Frosting: Switch the icing for chocolate frosting to create a richer and more indulgent flavor. Perfect for chocolate lovers who want to elevate their sweet treat!
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Gluten-Free Rolls: Swap in gluten-free cinnamon rolls to enjoy the fun treat without the gluten. You’ll still get that warm, flaky texture everyone adores.
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Cranberry Add-in: Mix in some dried cranberries to the cinnamon rolls before baking for a fruity burst of flavor. They complement the sweetness beautifully!
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Colorful Candies: Experiment with different candy decorations like gummies or chocolate-covered fruits to personalize each turkey. A splash of color makes them even more inviting!
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Nutty Crunch: Top the icing with chopped nuts for an added crunch and flavor contrast. Pecans or walnuts work wonders by bringing in extra texture!
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Spicy Kick: Try adding a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the icing for a surprising sweet-heat combination. It adds a unique flavor dimension to these cute turkeys.
For more ideas on tasty combinations, be sure to check out our guide on the Art of Balancing Cinnamon! You might also enjoy these Chicken Rollatini Culinary and savory Sourdough Dinner Rolls to complete your Thanksgiving feast!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Turkeys
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Room Temperature: For maximum freshness, enjoy your Cinnamon Roll Turkeys right after baking. If needed, keep them at room temperature for up to 2 hours, covered loosely with a towel.
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Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a warm, soft treat again.
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Freezer: You can freeze the unbaked turkeys for up to 2 months. Assemble the Cinnamon Roll Turkeys, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat refrigerated Cinnamon Roll Turkeys in the microwave or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to bring back their delicious flavor and soft texture.
Cinnamon Roll Turkeys Recipe FAQs
What kind of cinnamon rolls should I use for the Cinnamon Roll Turkeys?
I highly recommend using Pillsbury™ Grands!™ Cinnamon Rolls for this recipe. They are easy to work with and provide a delicious flaky texture that forms the perfect base for your Cinnamon Roll Turkeys.
How should I store leftovers?
You can store any leftover Cinnamon Roll Turkeys in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for the best results.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Turkeys?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked Cinnamon Roll Turkeys for up to 2 months. Simply assemble them, wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and place in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What should I do if my turkeys don’t hold their shape?
If your Cinnamon Roll Turkeys don’t hold their shape, it might be due to undercooking the bacon or not tucking the dough properly at the base. Make sure the bacon is crispy and follow the shaping instructions closely, so the rolls can keep their cute little turkey form.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! If you’re accommodating allergies, make sure to check for any specific candy ingredients you’re using, as some may contain allergens such as gluten or nuts. For a healthier or vegetarian option, swap out bacon for chopped sausage or a plant-based alternative to fit different dietary needs.
How can I make these Cinnamon Roll Turkeys more festive?
You can add extra decorations or colorful sprinkles to enhance the festive flair of your Cinnamon Roll Turkeys! Consider using different types or colors of candy for eyes and beaks to make them even more eye-catching and personal. Enjoy the creativity!
Cinnamon Roll Turkeys: Whimsical Treats for Thanksgiving Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
- Open the Pillsbury™ Grands!™ Cinnamon Rolls package and set aside the icing. Place five rolls spaced about three inches apart on the cookie sheet.
- Unroll each roll about one inch from the top, tucking the dough at the base to create the turkey neck.
- Bake the Cinnamon Roll Turkeys for 19 to 21 minutes until light golden brown. Let them cool on a rack for about five minutes.
- While cooling, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, then drain on a paper towel and slice in half.
- Spread icing on each Cinnamon Roll Turkey. Tuck four bacon halves into the back of each roll for tail feathers.
- Decorate with two candy eyeballs on each roll, a candy corn piece as a beak, and mini chocolate candies around the eyes.
- Insert halved mini pretzel sticks into the front of each roll for feet and arrange them on a festive platter.
