The smell of cinnamon Rolls baking is a joy. But making them the old way can take too long. That’s why these easy cinnamon crescent rolls are a lifesaver.
With simple ingredients and just 30 minutes, you can make homemade cinnamon rolls. They use crescent roll dough for a soft base. Then, they’re filled with cinnamon and topped with cream cheese frosting. It’s a mix of homemade taste and quick prep.
The Perfect Quick Alternative to Traditional Cinnamon Rolls
Baking pastries can take a lot of time. But, crescent roll dough is a quick fix for tasty cinnamon rolls. It saves hours in the kitchen and gives a flaky, buttery taste like homemade.
Why Choose Crescent Roll Dough
Crescent roll dough makes your breakfast rolls and sweet rolls amazing. It’s ready-made, so you don’t have to make dough from scratch. This lets you enjoy rolling, filling, and baking more.
Time-Saving Benefits
Using crescent roll dough cuts down your cinnamon rolls prep and baking time. What takes hours in traditional recipes can be ready in 30 minutes. This is great for busy mornings or sudden baking urges.
| Preparation Time | Baking Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 25 minutes | 13-15 minutes | 38-40 minutes |
Crescent roll dough saves you time, so you can have fresh cinnamon rolls quickly. It’s a quick, easy way to enjoy a tasty pastry without spending hours in the kitchen.
Essential Ingredients for Cinnamon Crescent Rolls
To make the perfect cinnamon crescent rolls, you need a few key ingredients. You’ll need two 8-ounce packages of crescent roll dough or sheets. These provide the flaky, buttery base. Also, 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened, are needed for the rich filling.
For the cinnamon-sugar mixture, you’ll need 1/3 cup of packed brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. These ingredients combine to make a sweet filling that goes well with the buttery dough.
To top your cinnamon rolls, you’ll make a creamy cream cheese icing. You’ll need 2 ounces of full-fat cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of butter, 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of heavy cream, and 3/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract. These ingredients come together to create a smooth, tantalizing glaze.
With these straightforward, high-quality ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to baking up a batch of irresistible homemade rolls, butter rolls, and cinnamon sweets. Your family and friends will love them.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Crescent Roll Dough or Sheets | 2 (8-ounce) packages |
| Unsalted Butter, softened | 4 tablespoons |
| Brown Sugar, packed | 1/3 cup |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1 tablespoon |
| Cream Cheese, full-fat | 2 ounces |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Powdered Sugar | 1 cup |
| Heavy Cream | 1 tablespoon |
| Vanilla Extract | 3/4 teaspoon |
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make homemade cinnamon crescent rolls, you need some basic baking tools. These tools will help make the process easier. Here’s what you should gather:
1. Basic Baking Essentials
- 9-inch or 10-inch pie dish or baking pan
- Nonstick cooking spray
- Mixing bowls
- Sharp knife
2. Optional Tools for Better Results
While the basic tools are a must, some optional items can make a difference. They can improve your cinnamon crescent roll-making experience:
- Silicone baking mat or parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Offset spatula for spreading the cream cheese frosting
- Hand or stand mixer with a paddle attachment for making the frosting
The silicone baking mat or parchment paper prevents the dough from sticking. A rolling pin helps make the crescent rolls even. The offset spatula makes frosting the rolls easy. A mixer, though optional, can make frosting simpler.
With these tools, you’re ready to make delicious homemade cinnamon crescent rolls. Enjoy your baking!
Step-by-Step Rolling and Filling Process
Learning the cinnamon roll technique is crucial for making delicious homemade cinnamon crescent rolls. Start by heating your oven to 425°F. This temperature helps the rolls turn a perfect golden-brown.
Then, roll out the crescent dough into a 9×12 inch rectangle. Spread softened butter all over the dough. Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon on top, making sure it’s evenly spread.
- Roll the dough into a 12-inch log, starting from the longer side.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the log into 10 equal rolls, each about 1 inch wide.
- Place the rolls in a baking pan, leaving some space for them to expand while baking.
This method ensures the cinnamon-sugar filling is evenly spread in each roll. It also makes sure the rolls bake evenly and look great.
| Hands-on Prep Time | Dough Rising Time | Baking Time |
|---|---|---|
| 30 minutes | 1 hour | 15-20 minutes |
By following these steps, you’ll make perfectly rolled and filled cinnamon crescent rolls. They’re sure to wow your family and friends. The flaky dough and sweet cinnamon filling make these pastries irresistible.
Creating the Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Filling
To make the ultimate cinnamon sugar filling, you need just a few ingredients. Mix 1/3 cup of packed brown sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. This sweet and aromatic mix will give your pastries the quintessential fall flavors.
1. Sugar and Spice Measurements
The right mix of sugar and cinnamon is key for the perfect taste. Start with the given amounts, but adjust to your liking. If you want more cinnamon, add more. For a sweeter filling, add more brown sugar.
2. Spreading Techniques
After mixing the cinnamon sugar, it’s time to put it on the dough. Use 4 tablespoons of softened butter as a base. Spread it evenly, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar on top. Make sure it’s spread out well for even flavor in each roll.
By following these steps, you’ll make a cinnamon sugar filling that will make your homemade sweet roll filling even better. It will add the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and brown sugar to your pastry flavoring.
Baking Temperature and Time Guidelines
Getting a golden-brown outside and a soft inside is key for your cinnamon crescent rolls. Follow these easy tips to make your pastries perfect every time.
First, heat your oven to 425°F. Put the crescent rolls on a baking sheet with parchment paper. Make sure they have room to grow without touching.
Bake the rolls for 7 minutes at 425°F. This helps them rise and get a nice color.
Then, lower the oven to 375°F and bake for 10 more minutes. This two-step process makes the outside crisp and the inside soft. If the tops get too brown, cover them with foil.
The rolls should bake for 16-17 minutes in total. When they’re golden and smell great, take them out. Let them cool for 5 minutes before adding the frosting. This step lets the inside cook fully and the outside set right.
| Baking Tip | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Oven Temperature | 425°F for first 7 minutes, then 375°F for additional 10 minutes |
| Total Baking Time | 16-17 minutes |
| Cooling Time | 5 minutes on a wire rack |
By sticking to these baking tips, you’ll get warm, perfectly baked cinnamon crescent rolls. With a bit of practice, you’ll be a pro at making pastries in no time!
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
The perfect finishing touch for your homemade cinnamon crescent rolls is a luscious cream cheese frosting. This sweet, creamy topping complements the warm, spicy rolls beautifully. To make the frosting, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients that you likely have on hand.
1. Frosting Consistency Tips
Start by beating 2 ounces of cream cheese and 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Then, gradually add 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of heavy cream, and 3/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
The consistency of the frosting is important. If it’s too thick, add a bit more heavy cream to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simply incorporate more powdered sugar until you reach the desired, spreadable texture. The key is to find the right balance for easy application and a rich, indulgent flavor.
2. Application Methods
Once your cinnamon crescent rolls have finished baking and are still warm, it’s time to apply the cream cheese frosting. You can use a knife, spoon, or offset spatula to evenly distribute the frosting over the tops of the rolls. The warmth of the freshly baked pastries will help the frosting melt and spread smoothly for full coverage.
The cream cheese frosting adds an irresistible creaminess and sweetness that complements the cinnamon-sugar filling perfectly. Enjoy these indulgent cinnamon crescent rolls with the delightful cream cheese topping for a truly delicious breakfast or snack.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
Keeping your homemade cinnamon crescent rolls fresh is simple. You can store them at room temperature for up to 2 days. Or, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. This makes them great for busy mornings or holiday baking.
For make-ahead, assemble the rolls the night before. Cover them and refrigerate until baking time. This way, you’re ready for a quick breakfast or a special event.
Freezing is another option. Baked or unbaked rolls can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking or reheating. This way, you can enjoy your cinnamon rolls whenever you want.
These rolls are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a special breakfast, a cozy holiday, or just a craving, they’re ready. Enjoy the flaky dough and cinnamon-sugar filling, anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes these cinnamon crescent rolls a quick and convenient alternative to traditional cinnamon rolls?
These cinnamon crescent rolls use store-bought crescent roll dough. This shortcut cuts down the preparation and baking time to about 30 minutes. The flaky, buttery dough is perfect for the cinnamon swirl and cream cheese frosting.
What are the key ingredients needed to make these cinnamon crescent rolls?
You’ll need 2 packages of crescent roll dough, unsalted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Also, cream cheese, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract are essential.
What essential tools are required to make these cinnamon crescent rolls?
You’ll need a 9-inch or 10-inch pie dish or baking pan and nonstick spray. Mixing bowls and a sharp knife are also necessary. Optional tools include a silicone baking mat, a rolling pin, and an offset spatula for frosting.
How do you properly roll and fill the cinnamon crescent rolls?
Roll out the crescent dough into a 9×12-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter over it, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll it into a 12-inch log and cut into 10 rolls. Place them in the prepared pan for even baking.
How do you make the perfect cinnamon sugar filling for these rolls?
Mix 1/3 cup packed brown sugar with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the sugar-cinnamon mixture for even flavor.
What are the baking temperature and time guidelines for these cinnamon crescent rolls?
Bake at 425°F for 7 minutes, then at 375°F for 10 minutes. This two-step process ensures a golden-brown exterior and a fully cooked interior.
How do you make the cream cheese frosting for these cinnamon crescent rolls?
Beat 2 ounces of cream cheese and 2 tablespoons of butter until smooth. Add 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of heavy cream, and 3/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat until combined, adjusting consistency as needed.
How can you store and/or make these cinnamon crescent rolls ahead of time?
Store leftover frosted or unfrosted rolls at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Assemble the rolls up to the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed. You can also freeze baked or unbaked rolls for up to 3 months, thawing overnight before baking or reheating.