There’s nothing quite like waking up to the smell of crescent roll cinnamon rolls. These rolls combine the ease of using refrigerated pre-made dough with a warm, comforting taste. With just 30 minutes of preparation and bake time, they’re the perfect balance between homemade effort and store-bought convenience.

The delicious sugar filling, along with the ooey-gooey center and golden brown top, makes these rolls irresistible. And don’t forget the sweet cream glaze that finishes them off perfectly. Whether it’s a lazy weekend morning or a special family gathering, these yummy treats are sure to become a favorite.

Why Crescent Roll Cinnamon Rolls Work So Well

The beauty of using crescent roll dough is that it saves you a lot of time while still giving you that homemade feel. The dough is already ready to go, so there’s no waiting around for it to rise or fussing with ingredients. In fact, you can unroll your dough straight from the fridge and get started right away. The result is a fluffy inside and a perfect golden top in no time. This recipe is so easy that even when you’re in a rush, like when you forgot to prepare ahead of time, you can rely on these rolls to satisfy your craving.

What makes these rolls stand out is the rich sugar filling and the way the dough bakes into soft, extra fluffy layers. Every bite is generously filled with tangy frosting, which complements the swirl of cinnamon and sweetness. It’s no wonder these rolls are a hit with both kids and grownups alike. Plus, with the option to use your air fryer, you can get that perfect texture even faster. Need more easy cinnamon roll recipes? Check out my Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls next.

Making Crescent Rolls Part of Your Routine

Whether you’re planning for a cozy breakfast or need something for last-minute sleepovers, these cinnamon rolls are ideal. I once had a moment where I completely forgot to thaw out my homemade dough, but luckily I had a tube of Pillsbury crescent rolls in the fridge. It was a lifesaver, and now I always keep a tube handy for situations just like that. Once you start making them, you’ll notice how quickly they become a family favorite, always on your go-to list of easy and yummy recipes.

The beauty of these rolls is that you can really make them your own. Whether you’re baking for a quiet morning or a lively gathering, these rolls are versatile enough to fit any occasion. You can unroll the dough, fill it, and get them into the oven in just a few minutes, making it perfect for those times when you’re craving something warm and sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

About This Recipe

When you’re craving a doughy, bakery-style treat but don’t have the time or patience to make something from scratch, crescent roll cinnamon rolls are a lifesaver. These delicious and rich treats bring the taste of traditional cinnamon rolls to your table without the hassle of dealing with yeast or waiting for dough to rise.

Using crescent dough as a shortcut, you can enjoy these ooey-gooey, buttery delights in just about 40 minutes.They’re a mix of homemade flavor and the convenience of popping open a tube. This easy-to-follow recipe gives you the perfect balance of a warm pastry that feels like it was made from scratch, but without all the effort.

Whether for breakfast or a sweet snack, these cinnamon rolls are a family favorite that you can whip up any time you want a comforting bite of a soft, halfway homemade treat.

The Best Recipe for Crescent Roll Cinnamon Rolls

Starting the day with soft, tender, and buttery cinnamon rolls is a true delight. Imagine waking up on a tired morning, knowing that in just about 40 minutes, you can enjoy a warm, sweet treat with minimal ingredients and even less effort. This recipe brings all the comforting deliciousness of classic cinnamon rolls but simplifies the process, making it easy enough for beginners and fun to make with kids.

What makes these rolls even better is the thick cinnamon sugar swirl inside, which gives every bite that perfect touch of sweetness. Once they’re baked, you can generously slather them with your favorite icing or a creamy topping. I personally love adding a light layer of cream cheese frosting for extra flavor. You can also prepare them ahead of time for a special breakfast or keep them ready for a weekend brunch with friends and family. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a treat that feels indulgent but takes little effort.

Ingredients:

For the Cinnamon Rolls:

• 1 tube (8-count) crescent roll dough (preferably pre-made dough sheets)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 2 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon heavy cream (or milk)

Method:

Preheat the oven:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish or baking pan lightly with nonstick spray.

Prepare the filling:

• In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until fully combined.

Roll out the dough:

• Unroll the crescent roll dough onto a lightly floured surface. If there are perforations, pinch them closed to form a complete sheet. Roll the dough out slightly into a 9×12-inch rectangle.

Spread the filling:

• Evenly spread the cinnamon butter mixture across the surface of the dough.

Roll and slice:

• Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Use a sharp knife to trim the uneven edges and then slice the roll into 9 equal pieces (about 1 inch each).

Arrange rolls in the pan:

• Place the rolls into the prepared pie dish or baking pan, leaving a bit of space between each roll for expansion.

Bake:

• Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes at 375°F, or until they are golden brown and fully baked through in the center.

Prepare the glaze:

• While the cinnamon rolls bake, combine the softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and heavy cream (or milk) in a bowl. Beat until smooth and creamy.

Add the glaze:

• Once the cinnamon rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes. Spread or drizzle the cream cheese glaze on top of the warm rolls.

Serve & Enjoy:

• Serve immediately for a warm, gooey treat!

Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes

Additional Info About Crescent Roll Cinnamon Rolls

Here is some additional information that you may have to know about Crescent Roll Cinnamon Rolls.

Health Benefits:

• Cinnamon: Rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Cream Cheese: Provides calcium and protein.
• Butter: Contains fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, and E.

Notes:

• Be careful not to overbake the cinnamon rolls, as the centers can dry out.
• If you don’t have heavy cream, milk will work fine for the glaze but may make it slightly less rich.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: ~280 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Sugars: 14g
• Fiber: 1g

Equipment:

• Rolling pin
• 9-inch baking pan or pie dish
• Hand or stand mixer

Serving Suggestions

When I think about cinnamon rolls, I imagine their delicious aroma filling the kitchen. These scrumptious treats are a perfect addition to any holiday morning or casual weekend. They can make your breakfast or brunch feel extra special. Imagine enjoying these fluffy rolls with a warm cup of coffee while gathered with family.

Whether it’s Easter, Christmas, or just a cozy Saturday, these mini rolls will bring a smile to everyone’s face. They truly are a perfect dish for any occasion!

These crescent dough cinnamon rolls are not just for breakfast; they are a quick and easy dessert option too! Sometimes, I wonder whether to label them as breakfast or dessert. As a food blogger, I find that they fit both categories beautifully. You can enjoy them as a sweet treat in the morning or savor them as a delightful after dinner indulgence.

For a twist, you could serve them alongside a dark rye bread recipe or a piece of South African Malva Pudding. With a simple glazed finish, these cinnamon rolls are sure to satisfy your cravings at any time of day. They are not only a crowd-pleaser but also a wonderful way to bring comfort and joy to your table.

Tips & Tricks for Quick Cinnamon Rolls

Making crescent roll cinnamon rolls is a delightful experience, and following a few tips and tricks can help ensure your rolls turn out perfectly every time. First, be careful with the dough. Many crescent roll doughs come with perforated lines that can easily rip. To avoid this, gently squeeze the dough together with your fingers to keep it in one piece.

Using softened butter instead of melted butter for the filling is essential, as melted butter can cause the filling to ooze out during baking, leaving you with a messy result.

When preparing your cinnamon filling, don’t skip this extra step: mix the sugar and cinnamon together to guarantee an even spread of the delicious filling. Use a pastry brush to easily spread the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture over the dough. When it’s time to cut your large roll into slices, using a sharp serrated knife works best to avoid squishing them, helping you achieve a perfect slice.

Make sure to bake the rolls until they are fully cooked—sometimes, the ones on the outside may look ready, but the inside could still be a little doughy. The suggested baking time is 20 to 25 minutes; however, keep an eye on them, as ovens can vary.

Also, consider allowing the dough to rise at room temperature for specific time before baking. If you have the chance, open the container, let it sit, and avoid preheating the oven until after you make the cinnamon rolls. This way, the dough can rise slightly and become even more delicious.

Lastly, if you want extra buttery rolls, you can grease the baking dish with 2 teaspoons of melted butter instead of using nonstick spray. With these simple tips, your crescent roll cinnamon rolls will be a hit!

Recipe Variations

When making crescent roll cinnamon rolls, there are many fun recipe variations you can try to suit your personal preferences and tastes. If you want to add a touch of sweetness, consider making a delicious cream glaze or a simple powdered sugar glaze to top your rolls. For those who enjoy a twist, you can replace the usual filling with fresh fruit or jam for a fruity take on this classic treat.

If you’re a fan of nuts, adding caramelized pecans or walnuts can bring an exciting crunch. You can even create a savory version by swapping out the sweet filling for something like butter and fresh herbs. The options are endless, and each variation allows you to tailor the recipe to your needs and ideas.

By experimenting with these additions, you can create your own next-level cinnamon rolls that will impress everyone. Each time you bake, feel free to make changes that match your mood and the ingredients you have on hand. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, these crescent rolls can be made to satisfy any craving!

What Size Pan Should I Use to Bake Cinnamon Crescent Rolls?

When baking cinnamon crescent rolls, choosing the right pan is important for perfect results. A 9-inch or 10-inch pan fits the recipe perfectly, allowing for about 9-10 rolls to bake comfortably. You can use a pie dish, a cake pan, or even a square baking pan, depending on what you have at home. Using a pan that is the right size helps the rolls rise nicely and bake evenly, giving them that soft and fluffy texture we all love. I often opt for a 9-inch pan since it creates just the right amount of space for the rolls, ensuring they don’t touch too much while baking.

Can Crescent Roll Cinnamon Rolls be Made Ahead of Time and Stored in the Refrigerator or Freezer? 

Yes, you can easily prepare crescent roll cinnamon rolls in advance. Simply assemble the unbaked rolls the night before, then cover them and place them in the refrigerator. This way, they will be ready to bake the next day. If you plan to keep them for a longer time, you can also freeze the unbaked rolls.

They can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw the rolls overnight in the refrigerator and bake them as directed. Before serving, make sure to warm them up and add the icing on top to create that delightful finish. With these simple steps, you can have delicious cinnamon rolls ready to enjoy anytime!

Can I Bake These as Cinnamon Roll Muffins?

You can make cinnamon roll muffins with crescent rolls by rolling out the dough, filling it with cinnamon mix, and placing it in a greased muffin pan. Bake at 425ºF for 7 minutes, then lower to 375ºF for 5-7 minutes. If the tops brown too fast, cover them loosely with foil and continue baking until golden.

Can I Use Seamless Crescent Roll Dough Instead of Crescent Roll Dough?

When making crescent roll cinnamon rolls, using seamless crescent roll dough instead of the regular kind saves time in preparation but works just as well. A helpful tip is to pinch together any seams before rolling to keep the dough intact while baking, ensuring the same fluffy texture. The seamless option is a time-saver without compromising taste!