To make frosting like Cinnabon, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need cream cheese, margarine or butter, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Ensure the cream cheese and margarine are at room temperature for easy mixing.
Next, use a stand mixer to beat the cream cheese and margarine until smooth. This step is crucial for achieving the creamy texture. Gradually add powdered sugar to the mixer. Scrape down the sides occasionally and mix for at least 12 minutes until it’s fluffy and smooth.
Then, add lemon juice and vanilla extract. Mix these in briefly to incorporate the flavors fully. The lemon juice balances the sweetness, making the frosting more flavorful.
Finally, store the frosting in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before using it on cinnamon rolls, cakes, or other baked goods. This frosting replicates the creamy and balanced sweetness of Cinnabon’s signature topping.