Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

If you’re after a cozy, fuss-free treat that tastes just as magical as a morning at your favorite bakery, these Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls will be your new go-to. Imagine buttery, flaky layers with a swirl of cinnamon and brown sugar, all topped with an irresistible creamy glaze. They come together in a pinch, yet deliver that just-baked, sweetly spiced comfort that makes a weekend special. Whether you’re impressing brunch guests or treating yourself to the perfect pick-me-up, Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls guarantee smiles with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how only a handful of easy-to-find ingredients can create such a luxurious result. Each component of these Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that essential gooey swirl.

• Frozen Puff Pastry Sheets: Store-bought puff pastry is a total time saver, delivering fabulously flaky layers without the work.
• Salted Butter (room temperature): Spreads smoothly and adds a touch of savory goodness to balance the sweetness.
• Light Brown Sugar: Brings rich, caramel notes and extra moisture to the filling.
• Ground Cinnamon: The star spice that infuses these rolls with warmth and unmistakable cinnamon roll character.
• Powdered Sugar: Forms the base of the creamy glaze—super fine for a smooth finish.
• Maple Flavoring or Vanilla Extract: Just a splash deepens the glaze’s flavor (maple for cozy vibes, vanilla for classic sweetness).
• Heavy Cream or Whole Milk: Adds richness and helps achieve the perfect drizzling consistency for that luscious glaze.

How to Make Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Preheat your oven to 375º Fahrenheit and get your baking pan ready with parchment paper or a nonstick mat. Take the puff pastry sheets out of the freezer and let them thaw on the counter just until soft enough to unfold without cracking—this usually takes only a few minutes. Handle them gently to keep all those precious layers intact!

Step 2: Add Butter, Sugar, and Cinnamon

Once the puff pastry is pliable, spread 2 tablespoons of softened, salted butter evenly over each sheet. Don’t skimp here; the butter creates that golden edge and helps the filling stick. Next, sprinkle about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of brown sugar on each sheet. Get it all the way to the edges so every bite has flavor. Finish with a tablespoon of cinnamon per sheet, covering every swirl-to-be.

Step 3: Roll and Slice

Roll up each sheet tightly, jelly roll style, and you’ll see the gorgeous cinnamon-sugar swirl already forming. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut each roll into 6 equal pieces; a gentle sawing motion works best to keep the shape. Soon you’ll have 12 adorable spirals ready to transform in the oven.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the rolls cut side up on your prepared baking tray, spacing them out to give each roll room to puff up. Slide them into the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re puffed, deeply golden, and your kitchen smells like heaven’s bakery.

Step 5: Whip Up the Glaze

While the rolls bake, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple flavoring (or vanilla extract), and just enough heavy cream or milk in a small bowl to reach that dreamy, drizzly consistency. If you like it thicker, use less liquid; thinner, add a splash more. Taste and adjust—this glaze is your finishing touch.

Step 6: Glaze and Serve

The moment the Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls come out of the oven, drizzle them generously with your glaze. The warmth helps soak in the sweetness and sets off a glossy finish. Try to resist diving right in… or don’t, because they’re at their best fresh and warm!

How to Serve Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

For a stunning presentation, sprinkle a pinch of extra cinnamon or a handful of toasted pecans over the gooey glazed tops. Even a little orange zest will add brightness and a fresh pop of color that wakes up the plate!

Side Dishes

These Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls shine alongside fresh fruit—try a berry salad or juicy orange slices for contrast. They’re equally dreamy with a smooth cup of coffee, frothy cappuccino, or even a chilled glass of milk if you want to channel cozy childhood vibes.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange rolls on a tiered cake stand for an impressive brunch centerpiece. For special occasions, individual ramekins make adorable single servings. If you’re serving a crowd, a drizzle bar with different glazes—vanilla, maple, or even chocolate—lets everyone customize their cinnamon roll experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them extra fresh, pop them in the fridge; just let them come to room temperature or reheat gently before serving.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze unglazed rolls—either before or after baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to a month. When you’re craving a roll, thaw them in the fridge overnight, bake (if needed), and glaze when warmed through.

Reheating

To revive that fresh-from-the-oven magic, reheat Cinnamon Rolls in a 300º Fahrenheit oven for 5-7 minutes, or microwave gently for 10-15 seconds each. Add a fresh drizzle of glaze just before serving to bring back the soft, gooey perfection!

FAQs

Can I make Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the rolls and store them, covered, in the fridge overnight. Simply bake the next morning and glaze them while warm for easy, stress-free entertaining.

What if I don’t have maple flavoring for the glaze?

No problem—vanilla extract works beautifully and gives a classic cinnamon roll flavor. Even a touch of almond extract or a bit of citrus zest can create a unique twist!

Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Yes, if you love making your own dough, it will elevate these Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls even more. Just roll it to about the thickness of the store-bought variety for best results.

Is there a dairy-free version?

You can substitute vegan butter and a non-dairy milk or cream for the glaze. Just make sure your puff pastry is a dairy-free brand, as some contain butter while others rely on plant-based fats.

How do I prevent my rolls from unrolling while baking?

Roll firmly but don’t stretch the dough, and place each roll seam side down on the baking tray. If you’re worried about them coming apart, you can secure the ends with a toothpick, removing after baking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about transforming simple ingredients into bakery-worthy Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls you can share with loved ones (or savor all to yourself). Whether for a holiday breakfast or just because, give this recipe a try—you might find it makes every morning a little sweeter.

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