Name: Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 can crescent roll dough or 1 sheet puff pastry; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp ground cinnamon; 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; Optional: powdered sugar for dusting or glaze

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Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls are the perfect blend of sweet, creamy, and buttery indulgence. These soft, golden-baked rolls are swirled with cinnamon sugar and filled with a rich cream cheese layer that melts into the dough as they bake. They’re incredibly easy to make and even easier to devour, making them a go-to for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how effortlessly these rolls come together—no fancy ingredients or complicated steps. The cream cheese melts into the cinnamon-sugar layers, creating a gooey, creamy filling that’s both comforting and decadent. Whether I’m baking them fresh in the morning or whipping them up for a cozy evening treat, they always hit the spot. The aroma alone is enough to make me crave another batch.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Crescent roll dough or puff pastry
Cream cheese
Granulated sugar
Ground cinnamon
Unsalted butter (melted)
Vanilla extract
Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
I roll out the crescent dough or puff pastry and spread a smooth layer of softened cream cheese across the surface.
In a small bowl, I mix together cinnamon and sugar, then sprinkle the mixture generously over the cream cheese layer.
I roll the dough tightly into a log and slice it into even pieces.
I place the rolls flat side down on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with melted butter.
I bake them for about 15–20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and puffed.
Once slightly cooled, I sometimes dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle a simple icing if I want a sweeter finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 8–10 rolls, depending on how thick I slice them.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: about 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts before rolling for a nutty crunch.
For extra richness, I mix a tablespoon of brown sugar into the cream cheese.
I’ve tried using flavored cream cheese (like honey or cinnamon) for a twist—it works beautifully.
A pinch of nutmeg or cardamom adds warm spice to the filling.
If I want a glaze, I whip up a quick icing with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm the rolls in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5–8 minutes to bring back their soft texture.

FAQs

Can I use homemade dough instead of crescent rolls?

Yes, I’ve made these with homemade sweet roll dough, and they turn out fantastic. It just takes a bit more prep time.

Do I have to soften the cream cheese first?

Definitely. Softened cream cheese is much easier to spread and blends smoothly into the dough without tearing it.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble them the night before, cover tightly, and bake them fresh the next morning.

What’s the best way to prevent the filling from leaking out?

I try not to overfill and make sure to roll the dough tightly. Pinching the seam shut also helps.

Can I freeze them?

Absolutely. I freeze the baked rolls (without icing), then thaw and reheat. They still taste amazing.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls are everything I love in a sweet treat—soft, gooey, and full of warm cinnamon flavor. They’re easy to prepare, totally satisfying, and perfect for sharing (or not!). Whether I’m serving them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they never disappoint.