Cream Cheese Cinnamon Sugar Rolls

Why Make This Recipe

Cream Cheese Cinnamon Sugar Rolls are a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy. They are soft, warm, and filled with a sweet cream cheese mixture, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. What makes these rolls extra special is the combination of creamy filling and sugary coating, giving every bite a rich flavor. They are also easy to make, whether you choose to use store-bought dough or create your own from scratch. The smell of these rolls baking in the oven is enough to attract anyone, filling your home with a warm, sweet aroma that is hard to resist.

Another reason to make these rolls is their versatility. You can enjoy them plain, add nuts for a crunchy texture, or even drizzle them with icing for extra sweetness. They are a fantastic way to bring family and friends together, whether for a leisurely weekend brunch or as a cozy snack during colder months.

The simplicity of the ingredients means you might already have them in your kitchen. So why not treat yourself and those you love to this comfort food? Making Cream Cheese Cinnamon Sugar Rolls is a delightful experience that will fill your home with warmth and joy.

How to Make Cream Cheese Cinnamon Sugar Rolls

Making Cream Cheese Cinnamon Sugar Rolls is a fun and rewarding process. Whether you use store-bought dough or make your own, the simple steps will guide you toward creating a delicious treat that everyone will love.

Ingredients

To make Cream Cheese Cinnamon Sugar Rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough or puff pastry
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (for coating)
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for dough)
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (for dough)

Directions

Now, let’s go through the steps to make these tasty rolls.

1. Make the Filling: Begin by preparing the cream cheese filling. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Use a mixer to beat these ingredients until smooth and creamy. Once mixed well, set it aside for later use.

2. Prepare the Dough: You have two options for the dough. If you’re using store-bought crescent roll dough or puff pastry, simply roll it out on a lightly floured surface and cut it into squares. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to make homemade dough, start by mixing the warm milk (ensure it is around 110°F or 43°C) with the 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast and 2 tablespoons of sugar in a bowl. Let it sit until it becomes foamy, which usually takes about 5–10 minutes. After it’s foamy, combine the yeast mixture with the 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 large egg, and 3 tablespoons of softened butter. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. After kneading, cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. Once risen, roll it out and cut it into squares.

3. Fill the Rolls: Take each square of dough and spoon 1 to 2 teaspoons of the cream cheese filling into the center. Carefully fold the dough over, ensuring to seal the edges securely. You can pinch the edges or use a fork to create a decorative seal.

4. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the filled rolls on the baking sheet, leaving space between each roll. Bake for approximately 12 to 15 minutes or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary depending on your oven.

5. Coat the Rolls: Once baked, take the rolls out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Brush the warm rolls with melted butter, then sprinkle the sugar-cinnamon mixture over them to coat thoroughly.

6. Serve Warm: These rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they are warm and gooey. Serve them on a platter and watch everyone dive in for a delicious treat.

How to Serve Cream Cheese Cinnamon Sugar Rolls

These Cream Cheese Cinnamon Sugar Rolls can be served in many ways. Here are a few ideas to consider:

• Straight Up: Serve the rolls warm on their own as a delicious treat. The sweet and creamy filling, along with the sugary coating, makes for a perfect stand-alone snack.
• With Coffee/Tea: These rolls pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the drink complements the sweet rolls, creating a comforting experience perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea.
• With Ice Cream: For dessert, serve the rolls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warmth of the roll combined with the cold ice cream makes for an indulgent treat that is sure to impress.
• With Frosting: Drizzle or spread some cream cheese frosting over the top for an extra layer of sweetness. This makes for an even more decadent dessert.
• With Fresh Fruit: Serve with fresh berries or slices of bananas for a delightful balance of flavors, adding a bit of freshness to your sweet treat.

How to Store Cream Cheese Cinnamon Sugar Rolls

If you happen to have some rolls left over, storing them properly will ensure they stay fresh:

• At Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the rolls within a day or two, you can keep them at room temperature. Place them in an airtight container or cover them with plastic wrap to keep them soft and moist.
• In the Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep the rolls in the fridge. They can last for about 4 to 5 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
• In the Freezer: If you want to save them for later, you can freeze the rolls. Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, ensuring to remove excess air, and they can be stored for up to three months. When you are ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Tips to Make Cream Cheese Cinnamon Sugar Rolls

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cream cheese and active dry yeast will improve the flavor and texture of your rolls. If possible, check the expiration dates on the packages.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the rolls while they are baking. Ovens can vary, so check them a couple of minutes before the suggested bake time to avoid burning.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to try different fillings! You can add chocolate chips, fruit preserves, nuts, or even a mix of spices to switch it up.
• Make Ahead: If you want to get a head start, you can prepare the rolls and assemble them a day before. Store them in the refrigerator overnight and bake them fresh the next morning.
• Add Icing: Create a simple icing with powdered sugar and milk. Drizzle it over the warm rolls for an added sweetness and visual appeal.

Variation

While Cream Cheese Cinnamon Sugar Rolls are delicious as is, there are several variations to consider, adding your unique twist to the recipe:

• Nutty Touch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cream cheese filling for a crunchy texture.
• Fragrance with Citrus: Mix in some orange or lemon zest into the cream cheese filling for a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Different Sweeteners: Instead of white sugar, try brown sugar in the filling or for coating. This will give the rolls a deeper flavor and a hint of molasses.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips to the cream cheese filling for a decadent chocolate twist.
• Fruit-Filled: Incorporate small pieces of fruit, such as apples or raspberries, within the filling. This adds a nice fruity flavor that complements the cream cheese.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of dough?
Absolutely! You can use biscuit dough, puff pastry, or even homemade bread dough. Just be mindful that bake times might vary based on the dough you choose.

2. How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
The rolls should be golden brown and puffed up. You can also check the internal temperature with a food thermometer; they should be around 190°F (88°C) when fully cooked.

3. Can I freeze the rolls before baking?
Yes! You can prepare the rolls and place them on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. When ready to bake, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual.

4. Can I make mini rolls?
Yes! You can cut the dough into smaller squares for bite-sized rolls. Adjust the baking time slightly, checking for doneness a few minutes early.

5. What should I do if my cream cheese mixture is too thick?
If the mixture is too thick to spread easily, you can add a little milk or cream to loosen it up until it reaches a spreadable consistency.

With this recipe, enjoy the delight of freshly baked Cream Cheese Cinnamon Sugar Rolls warm from your oven. Gather friends or family to share in the joy of this simple, yet scrumptious treat.

Print