Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls
Ingredients:
Shortcut Version:
- 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough (or puff pastry sheet)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Homemade Dough Option:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Directions:
Shortcut Version:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Unroll the crescent dough and press seams together to form a rectangle.
3. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Spread this mixture evenly over the dough.
4. Roll the dough tightly from the long side to form a log. Slice into 8 equal rolls.
5. Place rolls cut-side up on the baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
7. While rolls bake, mix melted butter, 1/2 cup sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl.
8. Immediately after removing rolls from the oven, brush generously with the cinnamon sugar coating.
9. Let cool slightly before serving.
Homemade Dough Option:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and 1 tablespoon sugar in warm milk. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, egg, and yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
6. Roll out dough into a rectangle, spread cream cheese mixture as above, roll, slice, and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
7. Apply cinnamon sugar coating as above while warm.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 18-25 minutes | Total Time: 40-50 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 350 kcal per serving | Servings: 8 servings
Tips:
Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest filling and best texture.
For extra flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.