Mini Cinnamon Rolls with Crescent Dough Recipe

Meet your new favorite shortcut treat: Mini Cinnamon Rolls with Crescent Dough. These adorable little pastries pack all the gooey, spiced magic of classic cinnamon rolls into bite-size, golden spirals you can whip up in minutes flat. Whether you need a quick brunch centerpiece, a cozy afternoon snack, or a sweet surprise for company, this recipe delivers homemade flavor and bakery-level softness, but with a playful twist that might just make you swear off canned cinnamon rolls for good.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Mini Cinnamon Rolls with Crescent Dough is all about working kitchen magic with a handful of staples. Every ingredient here plays a vital role in creating rolls that are rich, sweet, and perfectly tender—the kind you’ll want to grab straight from the pan, no plate required!

• Refrigerated crescent roll dough: The ultimate shortcut for soft, flaky layers—no yeast, no kneading, just unroll and go.
• Melted butter: Brushing on melted butter both flavors the rolls and helps the filling stick, soaking into every swirl for buttery goodness.
• Light brown sugar: The secret to deep, caramel notes and irresistible gooeyness in each bite.
• Ground cinnamon: This spice brings both warmth and that unmistakable cinnamon-roll aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake.

How to Make Mini Cinnamon Rolls with Crescent Dough

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Giving your oven time to preheat ensures those Mini Cinnamon Rolls with Crescent Dough begin baking immediately for the perfect golden finish.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

Unroll the crescent dough onto a clean, flat surface. Press any perforations together gently with your fingers to seal, so you have one seamless sheet that’ll keep all that delicious filling tucked inside.

Step 3: Brush with Butter

Using a pastry brush (or even the back of a spoon if you don’t have one handy), lavishly brush the melted butter across the whole sheet of dough. Don’t skimp—this is what gives the rolls their rich, gooey texture!

Step 4: Sprinkle the Filling

Mix together the light brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the buttered dough. Try to get the edges; more filling means more flavor in every mini bite.

Step 5: Roll It Up

Starting from the long edge, roll the dough up tightly into a log. The tighter you roll, the more beautiful cinnamon-sugar spirals you’ll reveal in your finished rolls.

Step 6: Slice and Arrange

Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 1-inch thick slices. Place each mini roll cut side up in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between them so they can puff up beautifully.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the rolls turn beautifully golden on top and the kitchen smells like a cinnamon roll wonderland.

Step 8: Let Cool and Enjoy

Allow the Mini Cinnamon Rolls with Crescent Dough to cool just slightly before serving. They’re at their best when still warm and oozy, fresh from the oven.

How to Serve Mini Cinnamon Rolls with Crescent Dough

Garnishes

While these rolls are delicious as-is, dress them up with a quick drizzle of vanilla glaze (just mix powdered sugar and a bit of milk), a shower of powdered sugar, or a handful of chopped pecans for crunch. Fresh fruit on the side adds a pop of color for that true bakery vibe.

Side Dishes

Turn your Mini Cinnamon Rolls with Crescent Dough into the star of a brunch spread! Pair them with fresh fruit salad, scrambled eggs, or a festive latte. The sweet and spiced rolls are lovely next to savory breakfast favorites, making them a hit if you’re feeding a crowd.

Creative Ways to Present

Try piling the mini rolls in a rustic basket lined with a tea towel, or arranging them on a cake stand for a special touch. For parties, you can even spear each roll with a cute toothpick for grab-and-go bites—perfect with coffee or as a dessert to share!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you (miraculously) have leftovers, store the Mini Cinnamon Rolls with Crescent Dough in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’ll stay soft and delicious, just like the day you made them.

Freezing

These mini rolls freeze wonderfully! Once fully cooled, pop them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to two months—just thaw overnight in the fridge when you need a quick, sweet treat.

Reheating

To bring back their magic, zap leftover rolls in the microwave for about 10–20 seconds, or reheat in a low oven (300°F) for a few minutes until warm. This revives their softness and brings out that just-baked aroma all over again.

FAQs

Can I add nuts or raisins to these Mini Cinnamon Rolls with Crescent Dough?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or a handful of raisins can be sprinkled over the cinnamon sugar before rolling for extra crunch or a burst of sweetness. It’s a great way to customize the rolls to your taste.

What’s the best way to roll the dough without it sticking?

Make sure your surface is lightly floured, and use gentle, steady pressure as you roll. If the dough feels too sticky, a quick dust of flour on your hands or the dough helps keep everything in check.

Can I make these ahead and bake later?

Yes! Assemble the rolls and arrange them in your baking dish, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, bake directly from the fridge, adding a couple extra minutes if needed.

Is there a glaze I can use for topping?

Definitely—a simple glaze of powdered sugar and a splash of milk or cream makes the perfect finishing touch. A hint of vanilla extract takes it to the next level!

Do these work with any brand of crescent dough?

Yes, you can use any brand of refrigerated crescent dough you like. Just make sure it’s the classic, unflavored variety for best results—flaky layers and easy rolling guaranteed!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a treat that’s big on cinnamon-roll flavor but low on fuss, you’ve got to give these Mini Cinnamon Rolls with Crescent Dough a try. You might just find yourself making them on repeat—they’re that simple, satisfying, and fun to share. Happy baking!

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