Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls: An Easy Breakfast

Puff pastry cinnamon rolls – these quick sweet treats are the perfect way to start a delicious day.

Flaky puff pastry swirls with cinnamon filling in under 30 minutes for the easiest homemade cinnamon rolls ever. 

Believe me, this delicious cinnamon roll combines the best of two worlds – the buttery layers of puff pastry with the warm, cozy flavors of traditional cinnamon rolls.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Ingredients
• Step Instructions + Tips
• Variations
• Full Recipe Card (printable)

This easy recipe is my go-to for fast, delicious breakfasts to enjoy on cozy weekends with my family, or to impress guests at holiday brunches.

With just a few basic ingredients, I can create a breakfast that everyone will love.

Ingredients 

The ingredient list for these puff pastry cinnamon swirls is simple – just puff pastry, butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.

You likely already have these staples in your pantry. 

Full ingredient list below:

• 1 puff pastry sheet – I used pre-made puff pastry but feel free if you want to make your own puff pastry.
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup light or dark brown sugar
• 3 teaspoons of cinnamon
• Optional glaze: powdered sugar and milk

How to Make Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls

In Europe, I very often find puff pastry in the refrigerated section, but if you use frozen puff pastry let it thaw the night before in the refrigerator.

Step 1

Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Carefully unroll the sheet of puff pastry. Meanwhile, melt the butter in the microwave.

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. 

Step 2 

Spread the softened butter with a pastry brush evenly over the pastry.

Sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly over the buttered strips.

Step 3

Starting from one of the longer sides of the rectangle, tightly roll the puff pastry into a log.

Slice the roll into 1-inch pieces, with a sharp knife or a piece of dental floss, and place cut side up on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4 

Bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown.

Step 5 (optional)

While the cinnamon rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract if you like, and a pinch of cinnamon until smooth.

Once the cinnamon rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.

Drizzle the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls and serve with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.

TIPS FOR MAKING THESE flaky cinnamon rolls

• Ensure that the puff pastry sheets are fully thawed before using them.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Leave enough space between the rolls to allow for expansion during baking.
• Pack the cinnamon sugar filling tightly onto the dough.
• Work quickly while assembling to prevent the pastry from getting warm and sticky.
• Roll up tightly for a compact spiral.
• Don’t skimp on the butter when brushing it onto the puff pastry. It adds richness and helps the cinnamon-sugar mixture adhere to the dough.

Recipe Variations

Apple Cinnamon Rolls: Add thinly sliced apples or apple pie filling along with the cinnamon sugar mixture.

Nutella Cinnamon Rolls: Spread a layer of Nutella on the puff pastry sheets before sprinkling the cinnamon sugar mixture.

Lemon Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls: Sprinkle fresh blueberries and grated lemon zest on top of the cinnamon sugar mixture for a burst of citrusy sweetness.

Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls: Mix pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice into the melted butter before brushing it onto the puff pastry sheets for a seasonal treat.

Cream Cheese-Stuffed Cinnamon Rolls: Before rolling up the puff pastry, spread a layer of softened cream cheese on top of the buttered sheets.

Proceed with the recipe as usual, and enjoy a creamy surprise in every bite.

Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Rolls: Sprinkle a handful of chocolate chips over the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a delightful chocolatey surprise in every bite.

The warm, melted chocolate will pair perfectly with the sweet cinnamon filling.

Storage Tips

To Store: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.

To Reheat: To enjoy the cinnamon rolls warm again, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.

To Freeze Before Baking: If you want to prepare these rolls ahead of time, you can freeze the unbaked rolls.

After slicing the puff pastry log into rolls, place them on a baking dish with parchment paper and freeze until solid.

Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.

When ready to bake, simply place the frozen rolls on a lined baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

If you like quick and easy breakfasts, also try this French roll in air fryer.

easy puff pastry cinnamon rolls

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