Delicious Cream Cheese Cinnamon Sugar Rolls Recipe

There’s something irresistibly comforting about freshly baked rolls, especially when they’re infused with the warm flavors of cinnamon and cream cheese. Imagine fluffy, golden Cream Cheese Cinnamon Sugar Rolls that melt in your mouth, bringing together a delightful combination of sweetness and spice in each bite. This recipe allows you to choose between a quick version using refrigerated dough or a more traditional method that results in bakery-quality rolls perfect for indulging any time of day.

Whether you’re looking for an easy treat for brunch or want to impress guests at a gathering, these rolls strike the perfect balance between simplicity and elegance. The cream cheese filling adds a rich, creamy texture while the cinnamon sugar coating ensures every morsel is a sweet delight. Plus, with the option to bake or air fry, you have the flexibility to suit your preferences and kitchen setup. Get ready to dive into this delightful baking adventure – your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Cinnamon Sugar Rolls

This recipe offers numerous benefits that make it a must-try!

• Quick and Easy: With the option to use store-bought dough, these rolls can be whipped up in no time, making them perfect for last-minute cravings.
• Decadent Flavor: The lush cream cheese filling combined with the aromatic cinnamon sugar creates an indulgent flavor profile.
• Versatility: You can bake or air fry the rolls depending on your equipment and preference.
• Cash-saving: Homemade rolls are not only fresher, but they also save you money compared to store-bought options.
• Perfect for Any Meal: Serve them as a breakfast treat, a sweet snack, or a dessert, and they’ll always be a hit.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you begin making these delicious rolls, it’s essential to properly prepare your kitchen and gather your tools. Start by ensuring you have a clean, spacious workspace to work with. A rolling pin, a sharp knife, and a mixing bowl will be your primary tools for this recipe. For the baking method, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before you start. If you’re using an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking.

Additionally, make sure you have measuring cups and spoons on hand for accurate ingredient proportions. If you’re making the dough from scratch, a stand mixer can make kneading easier, but it’s not necessary. Clear your workspace of any unnecessary items to keep things organized, and have your ingredients ready to go so that you can stay focused on creating these delightful rolls!

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)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

Begin by making the delicious cream cheese filling that will elevate your rolls. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Use a hand mixer or a spatula to beat the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. This filling must be prepared ahead of time to ensure the flavors meld well. Set it aside while you prepare the dough.

Step 2: Dough Preparation Options

Decide if you’d like to take the shortcut route using refrigerated crescent roll dough, or if you’re up for the challenge of making your dough from scratch. If you’re opting for the shortcut, roll out the crescent dough on a lightly floured surface and pinch the seams together to form a solid rectangle. Then cut the dough into squares, each slightly larger than you anticipate needing for the cream cheese filling.

If you’re making your dough from scratch, start by mixing the warm milk, active dry yeast, and a tablespoon of granulated sugar in a bowl. Allow it to sit for about 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This step activates the yeast, ensuring your rolls will rise perfectly. Next, add in the flour, salt, egg, and softened butter. Mix until a dough forms, and then knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Form the Rolls

Once your dough is ready, roll it out into a rectangle and cut it into squares. Take a spoon and add about 1–2 teaspoons of the cream cheese filling into the center of each square. Carefully fold the dough over, pinching the edges tightly to seal in the filling. Make sure the filling is entirely enclosed, or it might leak during baking. Once you’ve formed all the rolls, transfer them onto a greased baking sheet or air fryer basket.

Step 4: Bake or Air Fry

Now it’s time to cook these delicious rolls! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the rolls for about 12–15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up. If you’re using an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and arrange your rolls in a single layer. Cook for 6–8 minutes, checking for doneness. They should be golden on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy inside.

Step 5: Finishing Touch

As soon as they come out of the oven or air fryer, brush the warm rolls with the melted butter. Then, mix the granulated sugar with the additional ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Toss each roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. This will give them that irresistible sweet crunch and extra flavor. Serve warm and watch them disappear!

Variations

• Protein: Add cooked, crumbled bacon or sausage into the cream cheese filling for a savory twist.
• Vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped spinach or bell peppers into the filling for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or cardamom in place of, or alongside, the cinnamon for a more complex flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

• Be sure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results, especially the cream cheese.
• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and ensure the crescent dough is gluten-free, if available.
• If you want to make these ahead of time, prepare the rolls up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate. Allow them to come to room temperature before baking.
• Adding a pinch of salt to the sugar coating can enhance the flavors and balance the sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

• These rolls are delightful on their own, but pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea!
• Serve them warm as a brunch centerpiece or dessert at gatherings to wow your family and friends.

Tips

• When mixing the cream cheese filling, if it’s not smooth, you can zap it in the microwave for 10 seconds to soften it further, making it easier to blend.
• Experiment with different flavorings in the filling, such as lemon zest or almond extract, for a unique twist.
• If you’re making the homemade dough, don’t rush the kneading or rising times; both are essential for fluffy rolls.
• Check your rolls while baking to prevent overcooking; ovens can vary in heat distribution.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (shortcut) | 1 hour (homemade)
• Cook Time: 12–15 minutes (bake) | 6–8 minutes (air fry)
• Total Time: 30 minutes (shortcut) | 1 hr 45 min (homemade)

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 250 (per roll, approximate)
• Protein: 3g
• Sodium: 180mg

FAQs

Can I freeze the rolls after baking?

Yes, you can freeze the rolls after baking. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat them in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy.

Can I make the cream cheese filling without sugar?

Certainly! You can substitute sugar for a sugar alternative like stevia or use unsweetened cream cheese if you prefer a less sweet taste.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough doesn’t rise, it might be due to inactive yeast. Ensure that your yeast is fresh and that the milk is warmed to the correct temperature to activate it.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?

Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses such as mascarpone for a richer flavor or ricotta for a lighter, more granular texture.

Conclusion

These Cream Cheese Cinnamon Sugar Rolls are an exquisitely delicious way to treat yourself and your loved ones. With their sweet, creamy filling and cinnamon-sugar coating, they can easily brighten any morning or become the star of your dessert table. Whether you opt for the easy shortcut using crescent dough or the more involved homemade method, the results are sure to be sumptuous. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations to make the recipe your own, and be sure to share your baking experience in the comments! Enjoy every warm and fluffy bite!

Cream Cheese Cinnamon Sugar Rolls

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• Author: Alioui
• Total Time: 1 hr 45 min
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

There’s something irresistibly comforting about freshly baked rolls, especially when they’re infused with the warm flavors of cinnamon and cream cheese.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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)

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Instructions

1. Begin by making the delicious cream cheese filling that will elevate your rolls. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Use a hand mixer or a spatula to beat the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy.
2. Decide if you’d like to take the shortcut route using refrigerated crescent roll dough, or if you’re up for the challenge of making your dough from scratch. If you’re opting for the shortcut, roll out the crescent dough on a lightly floured surface and pinch the seams together to form a solid rectangle. Then cut the dough into squares, each slightly larger than you anticipate needing for the cream cheese filling.
3. If you’re making your dough from scratch, start by mixing the warm milk, active dry yeast, and a tablespoon of granulated sugar in a bowl. Allow it to sit for about 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
4. Once your dough is ready, roll it out into a rectangle and cut it into squares. Take a spoon and add about 1–2 teaspoons of the cream cheese filling into the center of each square. Carefully fold the dough over, pinching the edges tightly to seal in the filling.
5. Now it’s time to cook these delicious rolls! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the rolls for about 12–15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
6. As soon as they come out of the oven or air fryer, brush the warm rolls with the melted butter. Then, mix the granulated sugar with the additional ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Toss each roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

Notes

Be sure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results, especially the cream cheese.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (shortcut) | 1 hour (homemade)
• Cook Time: 12–15 minutes (bake) | 6–8 minutes (air fry)
• Category: Dessert

Nutrition

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Sodium: 180 mg
• Protein: 3 g