If you find yourself craving something sweet, buttery, and wonderfully aromatic but don’t have the patience for classic yeasted rolls, these Quick Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls are about to become your new go-to morning treat. Imagine layers of golden, flaky pastry swirled with cinnamon-sugar and finished with a dreamy drizzle of vanilla glaze—all ready in under half an hour. Whether you’re rushing to feed a brunch crowd or just want a cozy pick-me-up with your coffee, this shortcut recipe is pure magic in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of pantry staples, these Quick Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls come together almost effortlessly. Each ingredient brings something special to the party—flavor, texture, or that perfect finishing touch. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:
- Puff pastry sheet: The star shortcut—delivers buttery, flaky layers without kneading or rising time.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Acts as the glue for the cinnamon-sugar swirl, adding richness and flavor.
- Brown sugar, packed: Brings caramelly sweetness and pairs beautifully with the spice blend.
- Ground cinnamon: The classic! Warm, heady, and absolutely essential for true cinnamon roll vibes.
- Ground nutmeg (optional): Offers a subtle, nutty depth—totally optional, but lovely if you have it.
- Powdered sugar: Whips up into a smooth, glossy glaze for the final flourish.
- Milk: Thins the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency—start with less, add more as needed.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash transforms the glaze with a sweet, aromatic finish.
- All-purpose flour (for dusting): Prevents the pastry from sticking to your work surface as you roll.
How to Make Quick Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prep Your Workspace and Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure nothing sticks and cleanup is effortless. Lightly flour a clean, flat surface to keep your delicate pastry from tearing or sticking as you roll it out. This bit of prep sets you up for beautiful, easy-to-handle rolls.
Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Take your thawed puff pastry sheet and gently roll it into a 10×10 inch square. This doesn’t have to be exact—just aim for a nice, even thickness so your cinnamon rolls bake up uniformly golden and flaky. Don’t forget to keep things lightly floured so the pastry stays easy to work with.
Step 3: Add the Cinnamon-Sugar Magic
Brush the entire surface of the pastry with melted butter, making sure you reach all the corners for maximum flavor. In a small bowl, stir together brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg if you’re using it. Sprinkle this mixture over the buttered pastry, distributing it as evenly as possible so every bite is just as indulgent as the last.
Step 4: Shape and Slice Your Rolls
Roll the pastry up tightly from one edge into a snug log—think jellyroll style. This tight roll creates those irresistible spirals once baked. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 1-inch slices; you should end up with about 9 rolls. Space them cut-side up on your prepared baking sheet so they have a bit of room to puff.
Step 5: Bake to Flaky, Golden Perfection
Slide the tray into the hot oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the rolls are deeply golden and wonderfully puffed. Keep an eye on them near the end—the transformation from pale to gorgeous happens fast.
Step 6: Glaze for the Win
While the rolls are baking, quickly whisk your powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract into a thick, pourable glaze. Once the rolls emerge piping hot from the oven, drizzle the glaze generously over the tops. The glaze will slightly melt into the swirls, making each roll irresistibly glossy and sweet.
How to Serve Quick Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls
Garnishes
The moment these Quick Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls hit the plate, take them over the top with simple garnishes. A final dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance, while a few toasted pecans or walnuts lend crunch and warmth. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle a touch of cinnamon or even a few orange zest curls on top for color and zip.
Side Dishes
Pair your cinnamon rolls with fresh fruit salad, crisp apple slices, or juicy berries for a delightful balance. They also shine next to creamy yogurt, a freshly brewed latte, or even classic scrambled eggs for a sweet-and-savory breakfast spread that’ll turn any morning into a mini celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these Quick Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls into a true occasion by arranging them on a pretty serving platter with extra glaze on the side for drizzling. For brunch buffets, lollipop-style presentation (just add lollipop sticks before baking) is always a hit. Or, serve in individual cupcake wrappers for a grab-and-go option that feels just a bit fancier.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cinnamon rolls (if you’re lucky enough to have any!) should be cooled completely, then stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The puff pastry stays lightly crisp for a day or so, and becomes tender as it sits—still absolutely delicious.
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze Quick Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls, do so before glazing: let baked rolls cool, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and glaze just before serving for that fresh-baked experience.
Reheating
For best results, warm your rolls in a low oven (300°F/150°C) for 5 to 8 minutes until the pastry crisps up again. If you’ve already glazed them, just keep an eye out so the glaze doesn’t run off—tent with foil if needed. You can also microwave a single roll for about 10 seconds for an instant treat.
FAQs
Can I use homemade puff pastry instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! If you have homemade puff pastry on hand, it will taste amazing here. Just be sure to roll it to the same size and bake as directed for that signature flaky texture.
What’s the best way to thaw frozen puff pastry?
For the best results, thaw puff pastry overnight in the refrigerator. If you’re short on time, leave it on the counter for about 30 minutes, but keep a close eye—if it gets too warm, it’ll be tricky to handle.
Can I add nuts or raisins inside the rolls?
Yes! Adding chopped nuts or plump raisins to your filling before rolling adds extra texture and flavor. Pecans, walnuts, and golden raisins are especially tasty in these Quick Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls.
How do I keep the rolls from unrolling while baking?
Roll the pastry log tightly and place the cut rolls seam-side down on the baking sheet. If they start to unspiral, you can gently pinch the ends together or nestle the rolls closer together on the tray for support.
Is there a way to make these dairy-free?
Certainly! Use plant-based puff pastry, dairy-free butter, and a non-dairy milk for the glaze and you’ll have irresistible Quick Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls everyone can enjoy.
Final Thoughts
If ever there was a “why not?” recipe, these Quick Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls are it—so simple, so satisfying, and bound to make your kitchen smell amazing. Don’t be surprised if they become your new favorite weekend ritual. Give them a try and watch those cinnamon-swirled smiles appear!
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Quick Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 9 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Quick Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat for breakfast or brunch. Made with buttery puff pastry and a sweet cinnamon filling, these rolls are easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Cinnamon Filling:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp milk
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Additional:
- All-purpose flour for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry into a 10×10 inch square on a floured surface. Brush with melted butter.
- Make the Filling: Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sprinkle over the pastry.
- Roll and Slice: Roll the pastry into a log, slice into rolls, and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and puffed.
- Make the Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.
Notes
- You can add chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture.
- Best served warm, can be reheated in a low oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
