If you’re searching for a treat that’s equal parts impressive and effortless, Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls are about to become your new best friend. Imagine layers of flaky, buttery pastry swirled with a sweet cinnamon-sugar filling, finished off with a dreamy vanilla glaze. Whether you’re making a cozy weekend breakfast or a last-minute dessert for guests, these cinnamon rolls deliver all the comfort and flavor you crave without the hassle of traditional yeasted dough. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want to make them again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls so irresistible is how just a handful of everyday ingredients combine to create something truly special. Each one is key to the flavor, texture, or that signature golden color you’ll see when they come out of the oven.
- Puff pastry sheet (thawed): The flaky, buttery base that makes these rolls impossibly easy and delicious—no need to knead or rise!
- Unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and helps the cinnamon-sugar filling stick perfectly to every layer.
- Brown sugar (packed): Brings a deep, caramel-like sweetness that melts into the pastry as it bakes.
- Ground cinnamon: The heart and soul of every cinnamon roll—don’t be shy with it!
- Nutmeg (optional): Just a pinch warms up the flavor, making each bite even cozier.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): For a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, sprinkle these in if you’re feeling fancy.
- Powdered sugar: The base for that luscious, sweet glaze on top.
- Milk: Helps achieve the perfect drizzling consistency for your glaze—start with less and add more as needed.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle warmth and rounds out the sweetness in your glaze.
How to Make Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls bake evenly and makes cleanup a breeze—less time scrubbing, more time enjoying!
Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Unfold your thawed puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. If it feels a bit sticky, a gentle dusting of flour will help. Try to press out any creases, but don’t stress about perfection—those layers are going to puff up beautifully in the oven.
Step 3: Spread the Butter and Sprinkle the Filling
Brush the entire surface of the pastry with melted butter. In a small bowl, stir together brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg if you’re using it. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the buttered pastry, covering every corner. This is also the moment to scatter on those chopped nuts if you want extra crunch.
Step 4: Roll and Slice
Starting at one edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log. Take your time—tight rolling gives you gorgeous spirals. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 8 to 10 even pieces. Place them cut side up on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space for them to puff up as they bake.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop the rolls in the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and gloriously puffed. Your kitchen will smell like a bakery! Let them cool for a few minutes on the sheet while you prepare that irresistible glaze.
Step 6: Whisk Up the Glaze and Drizzle
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Adjust the milk to get your desired consistency. Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm rolls and get ready to swoon!
How to Serve Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls
Garnishes
For a beautiful (and tasty) finish, sprinkle extra chopped nuts or a dusting of cinnamon over the glazed Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls. A few curls of orange zest or a handful of fresh berries can also add a pop of color and contrast.
Side Dishes
Pair your cinnamon rolls with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a classic combo, or serve alongside a simple fruit salad to balance the sweetness. If you’re turning these into a brunch spread, scrambled eggs or a savory quiche make wonderful partners.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls on a pretty cake stand for a bit of drama, or layer them in a basket lined with a cheerful napkin. For a brunch buffet, arrange them in a circle on a platter with a small bowl of extra glaze in the center for dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls left (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The glaze may soften a bit, but they’ll still taste wonderful.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the unglazed rolls in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and reheat before glazing.
Reheating
To refresh that just-baked texture, warm the rolls in a 300°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes. If already glazed, cover loosely with foil so the glaze doesn’t melt away. They’ll be soft, flaky, and ready for another round of enjoyment!
FAQs
Can I use homemade puff pastry?
Absolutely! If you have the time and energy to make homemade puff pastry, it will make these cinnamon rolls even more special. Store-bought is perfect for quick results, but homemade adds a beautiful, extra-buttery touch.
Can I prepare Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
You can assemble the rolls and keep them covered in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just wait to add the glaze until after they’ve been baked and cooled slightly.
What can I substitute for nuts?
If you’d rather skip nuts, try adding raisins, dried cranberries, or simply leave them out—the rolls will still be irresistibly delicious.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes! Use a plant-based butter for brushing and a non-dairy milk for the glaze. Double-check your puff pastry brand to ensure it’s dairy-free as well.
How do I keep the rolls from unrolling while baking?
Roll the pastry tightly and slice with a sharp knife. If you notice the ends start to unravel, gently press them back in place before baking. Chilling the rolls for 10 minutes before baking also helps them hold their shape.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something warm, flaky, and utterly delightful, Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls are just the thing to brighten your day. They’re so easy, so rewarding, and sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share them with you. Give them a try—you’ll be amazed at how quickly they disappear!
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Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls are an easy and quick alternative to traditional cinnamon rolls, perfect for a delicious breakfast or dessert. Made with flaky puff pastry, cinnamon sugar, and a luscious glaze, they offer a perfect blend of warm spices and buttery layers.
Ingredients
For the Cinnamon Rolls
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
For the Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to prevent it from sticking. Brush the entire surface evenly with melted butter to create a rich, buttery flavor and help the sugar-cinnamon mixture stick.
- Mix and Sprinkle Filling: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the buttered puff pastry. Optionally, add chopped pecans or walnuts on top for extra crunch and flavor.
- Roll and Slice: Starting from one edge, tightly roll the puff pastry into a log to keep the filling inside. Slice the log into 8–10 even pieces to create individual cinnamon rolls. Arrange them cut side up on the prepared baking sheet with some space between each.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes or until the rolls are golden brown and puffed, indicating a flaky and cooked pastry.
- Make the Glaze: While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth to create a sweet glaze.
- Glaze and Serve: Once baked, let the cinnamon rolls cool slightly. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls and serve immediately for the best experience.
Notes
- Best enjoyed fresh for optimal flakiness and taste.
- To reheat, warm in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness.
- For a richer twist, spread a thin layer of cream cheese on the puff pastry before adding the cinnamon sugar filling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 115mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
