Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese

Cinnamon sugar cream cheese rolls are the treat I reach for when I want something quick yet incredibly satisfying. With golden pastry hugging a creamy tangy center and every bite coated in warm cinnamon sugar, these rolls are designed for maximum comfort with minimum fuss. They come together with basic ingredients and are ready in no time, making them the answer to a last minute sweet tooth or a busy weekend breakfast. I always think of lazy mornings at home when the scent of cinnamon fills the kitchen and everyone gathers round just waiting for that first warm bite.

These rolls became my lifesaver when I needed something comforting in a pinch and now they always disappear from the plate before they can even cool.

Ingredients

• Crescent roll dough or puff pastry: this is your shortcut for a flaky and tender base look for brands with buttery layers for the best taste
• Cream cheese: softened to ensure it blends smoothly with sugar and makes a silky filling buy full fat for a rich result
• Sugar: gives the filling sweetness and also adds crunch to the outside use regular granulated sugar or even a touch of brown sugar for extra flavor
• Vanilla extract: deepens the aroma and rounds out the tang of the cream cheese choose pure vanilla for the best result
• Ground cinnamon: this brings the cozy spice and should be fresh for boldness try to select Ceylon cinnamon if available
• Melted butter: helps the cinnamon sugar stick and adds that bakery finish use unsalted to control the saltiness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix the Filling:

Combine softened cream cheese with sugar vanilla and cinnamon in a mixing bowl. Beat until very smooth and creamy so there are no lumps left. A hand mixer makes this quick if you like

Prepare the Dough:

Unroll your crescent dough or puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Pinch or press the seams to form small rectangles with no gaps. Take your time so the filling will not leak while baking

Fill and Fold:

Spoon about one to two teaspoons of cream cheese mixture into the center of each rectangle. Gently fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges closed tightly. Make sure all seams are sealed so the cheese stays put

Bake or Air Fry:

Arrange the filled rolls on a parchment lined baking sheet. Bake at three seventy five degrees Fahrenheit for twelve to fifteen minutes until golden brown. For air fryer version cook at three fifty degrees for six to eight minutes watching for a deep golden color

Coat in Cinnamon Sugar:

While the rolls are still warm brush each one generously with melted butter. Immediately roll each in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar making sure every side is covered for a sweet crunchy crust

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One of my favorite tricks is doubling the cinnamon sugar and saving some to sprinkle on toast. It takes me back to when my little brother and I would sneak tastes of the sugar bowl while these were in the oven.

Storage Tips

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day or in the refrigerator for three days. To reheat pop them into a warm oven or air fryer for a couple of minutes to bring back their crisp edges. Fully cooled rolls can be frozen in a single layer then transferred to a bag and kept for up to one month.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have crescent roll dough puff pastry gives a flakier result that is just as delicious. Dairy free folks can swap in non dairy cream cheese and plant based butter with great results. Try adding a little finely chopped apple or nuts to the filling for a new twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the rolls fresh and warm dusted with more cinnamon sugar or a quick drizzle of powdered sugar glaze. They go perfectly with coffee or tea and make a fun brunch addition. You can also offer them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

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Cultural Backstory

Cinnamon sugar and cream cheese have a long standing place in American baking and these rolls are an easy blend of cinnamon roll and cream cheese Danish. Quick to prepare like something Grandma might have whipped up they channel years of family baking traditions when time is short but sweet cravings are strong.

Once these rolls are out of the oven the aroma alone has everyone gathering round. I love how easy they are and how they always bring back happy family memories.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent dough?

Yes, puff pastry creates a flakier and crispier texture while preserving the rich, buttery flavor that pairs well with the cream cheese filling.

→ How do I prevent the filling from leaking during baking?

Seal the edges of each roll firmly by pinching the dough tightly to keep the creamy center enclosed throughout baking.

→ What’s the best way to coat the rolls in cinnamon sugar?

Brush the rolls with melted butter while they are warm, then immediately roll them in cinnamon sugar to create a crunchy, sweet crust.

→ Can these rolls be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and chill the unbaked rolls in the refrigerator, then bake fresh before serving for the best texture and taste.

→ Are there ways to vary the cream cheese filling?

Try adding fruit preserves or citrus zest to the filling for an extra layer of flavor that complements the cinnamon sugar coating.