Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls

Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls are a quick and delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll. Made with buttery, flaky puff pastry instead of traditional dough, these rolls are layered with cinnamon-sugar goodness and baked until golden and crisp. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon treat with minimal prep and maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cinnamon rolls are ridiculously easy to make—no yeast, no waiting, no kneading. With just a few ingredients and a sheet of puff pastry, you get the comforting taste of cinnamon rolls with a light, crispy texture. They’re ideal when you need a sweet treat in a hurry and great for serving guests, holiday mornings, or indulgent weekend breakfasts.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Puff pastry sheet, thawed
• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Optional: chopped nuts or raisins
• Optional glaze: powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract

directions

this recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Unroll or unfold the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
3. Brush the surface with melted butter.
4. In a bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the pastry.
5. Add nuts or raisins if using.
6. Starting from one edge, tightly roll the pastry into a log.
7. Slice into 1-inch rolls and place cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
9. Optional: Drizzle with glaze once slightly cooled.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8–10 cinnamon rolls.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Cream cheese glaze: Mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and a splash of milk for a rich topping.
• Maple flavor: Add a touch of maple syrup to the cinnamon filling or glaze.
• Fruit twist: Add a layer of finely chopped apples or pears before rolling.
• Nutty rolls: Include chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for texture.
• Chocolate swirl: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips with the cinnamon sugar.

storage/reheating

Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 4 days.

To reheat, warm in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 5–7 minutes. You can also microwave them for 15–20 seconds, though the texture may soften. Glaze after reheating for the best presentation.

FAQs

Can I use frozen puff pastry?

Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed before using to ensure even rolling and baking.

Do I need to chill the rolls before baking?

Not necessarily, but a 10–15 minute chill helps them keep their shape better.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep and slice the rolls, refrigerate overnight, and bake fresh in the morning.

Can I use white sugar instead of brown?

You can, but brown sugar gives a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.

How do I make the glaze?

Mix ½ cup powdered sugar with 1–2 tablespoons milk and a dash of vanilla extract until smooth.

Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?

Yes, freeze them unbaked or baked (without glaze). Reheat in the oven before serving.

Will they be flaky like croissants?

Yes, puff pastry makes them crisp and flaky, different from soft, doughy cinnamon rolls.

Can I make them vegan?

Use a dairy-free puff pastry, plant-based butter, and skip the glaze or use a non-dairy version.

How can I keep the filling from leaking out?

Roll tightly and don’t overfill. Press the seam gently to seal before slicing.

What’s the best way to cut the rolls?

Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss for clean cuts that preserve the spiral.

Conclusion

Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls offer all the cozy sweetness of traditional cinnamon rolls with a lighter, crispier texture—and in a fraction of the time. They’re quick, customizable, and so satisfying whether you glaze them or enjoy them as-is. Keep a sheet of puff pastry in your freezer, and you’ll always be ready to whip up this simple, sweet indulgence.

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