Cinnamon Roll Roll Ups bring together soft layers of buttery dough wrapped around a creamy vanilla-scented filling, sprinkled with warm cinnamon sugar, and baked to golden perfection. Finished with a silky sweet glaze, these pull-apart swirls turn any morning into a cozy celebration. Whether you’re craving a quick breakfast treat or a sweet dessert, this recipe is beginner-friendly and guaranteed to impress—so grab your apron and let’s roll!
Key Ingredients
Before you start rolling, gather these simple yet decadent ingredients to create the perfect balance of cream cheese richness and cinnamon-sugar bliss.
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened: Provides a tangy, creamy base that blends smoothly with sugar and vanilla.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling and ensures a silky texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the filling with warm, aromatic vanilla flavor.
- 1 (8 oz) can of crescent roll dough: Forms flaky, buttery layers that become golden and tender when baked.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps the tops of the rolls brown beautifully when brushed on.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Combines with cinnamon for a caramel-like, gooey swirl inside each roll.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Delivers classic warm spice that complements the sweet filling.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Creates a smooth, sweet icing to drizzle over the warm rolls.
- 1–2 tablespoons milk: Thins the powdered sugar to a perfect drizzle consistency.
How To Make Cinnamon Roll Roll Ups
This recipe comes together quickly with a few easy mixing, rolling, and baking steps. In under 20 minutes of baking time, you’ll transform simple crescent dough and a dreamy cream cheese filling into irresistible bite-sized swirls.
1. Preheat and prep your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Mix the filling by combining the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Use an electric mixer or whisk until the mixture is completely smooth. Set aside.
3. Prepare the dough by unrolling the crescent roll dough onto a clean surface without separating the triangles. Pinch all seams together to form one solid rectangle.
4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/4-inch border around the edges so the filling stays inside.
5. Blend the cinnamon sugar in a separate bowl: stir together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined. Sprinkle this evenly over the cream cheese layer.
6. Roll into a log by starting at one long edge and rolling tightly, keeping the seam pressed so it stays sealed.
7. Slice into 12 pieces using a sharp knife. Place each roll-up cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
8. Brush with butter by mixing the melted butter with an extra pinch of cinnamon sugar (optional). Gently brush the tops of each roll for added flavor and shine.
9. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the rolls are puffed and golden brown around the edges.
10. Whisk the icing while the rolls bake: combine the powdered sugar and milk in a bowl, adding milk gradually until the icing is smooth and drizzle-ready.
11. Cool and drizzle by removing the rolls from the oven, letting them sit for 2–3 minutes, then spooning the icing over each warm swirl.
12. Serve immediately and enjoy these gooey, cinnamon-packed delights straight from the oven!
Serving Suggestions
These cinnamon roll roll-ups shine in many delicious scenarios—here are a few ways to present them for maximum enjoyment:
- Coffee Companion: Serve warm alongside a freshly brewed cup of coffee or latte to balance sweetness with a bold brew.
- Berry Topping: Spoon a few fresh raspberries or strawberries over the rolls for a pop of color and tart contrast.
- Ice Cream Indulgence: Plate a roll-up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel for a decadent dessert.
- Brunch Platter: Arrange on a wooden board with sliced fruit, yogurt parfaits, and mini quiches for a festive brunch spread.
Tips For Perfect Cinnamon Roll Roll Ups
To achieve flawless roll-ups every time, start with room-temperature cream cheese for easy mixing and avoid over-stretching the dough to keep it tender. Chilling the assembled log for 5–10 minutes before slicing helps maintain neat swirls. Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to make clean cuts without squishing the rolls.
- These roll-ups are great for breakfast or as an indulgent dessert.
- You can easily add nuts or raisins to the filling for extra texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving to enjoy them warm again.
How To Store It
Proper storage keeps your cinnamon roll roll-ups soft, flavorful, and ready to reheat for another round of enjoyment. Follow these methods to maintain freshness:
- Refrigerator: Once fully cooled, place the rolls in a single layer inside an airtight container. Store for up to 3 days and reheat briefly before serving.
- Freezer (Unbaked): Arrange assembled but unbaked roll-ups on a parchment-lined tray. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 3–5 minutes to the baking time.
- Freezer (Baked): Cool baked rolls completely, then wrap each in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Freeze up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven.
- Room Temperature (Short-Term): Keep rolls in a covered dish on the counter for up to 4 hours if serving at a party or brunch; this preserves soft edges without refrigeration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question? Let’s clear up any doubts so your roll-ups turn out perfect!
- How many roll-ups does this recipe make and how many people does it serve?
A: This recipe yields 12 cinnamon roll roll-ups. If each person enjoys two roll-ups, it comfortably serves six, or it can serve up to 12 people with one roll-up each as a light treat or alongside other breakfast items.
- Can I prepare the dough and filling ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can assemble the log with the cream cheese and cinnamon-sugar fillings, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking. When ready, slice into 12 pieces, bake as directed, and finish with icing. This helps streamline the morning rush or a dessert service.
- How can I tell when the roll-ups are perfectly baked?
A: The roll-ups are done when the tops turn golden brown and the dough has puffed up evenly. You may see slight separation between layers at the edges. If you gently press the top, it should feel springy, not doughy. Baking for the full 15–18 minutes at 375°F ensures a fully cooked interior and a crisp exterior.
- What variations can I make to the filling for extra texture and flavor?
A: You can stir 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) or 1/4 cup raisins into the cinnamon-sugar mixture before layering it on the cream cheese. Spread them evenly so each roll-up gets a bit of crunch or chew. Alternatively, swap the brown sugar for coconut sugar for a deeper caramel note.
- How do I adjust the icing consistency if it’s too thick or thin?
A: For thicker icing, add powdered sugar in 1-tablespoon increments until it holds its shape when drizzled. For thinner icing, whisk in milk 1 teaspoon at a time until it flows smoothly off a spoon but still coats the back of the spoon. Aim for a consistency that drips slowly but doesn’t pool too quickly on the rolls.
- What is the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store cooled roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave each roll-up for 10–15 seconds, or place them on a baking sheet in a 325°F oven for about 5 minutes until warm. Drizzle extra icing after reheating if desired.
- Can I make these completely from scratch without store-bought dough?
A: Yes. Substitute a basic yeast-based cinnamon roll dough: mix 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast with 1 cup warm milk, ¼ cup sugar, and 3 cups flour, knead until smooth, let rise until doubled, then roll into a 9×13-inch rectangle. Proceed with the cream cheese and cinnamon-sugar layers, roll, slice, and bake as directed, though you may need to extend baking by 2–4 minutes.
- Why did my filling leak out during baking, and how do I prevent it?
A: Leakage usually happens if seams aren’t sealed or the cream cheese layer is too close to the edges. To prevent this, leave a 1/4-inch border around the dough when spreading the cream cheese mixture. Pinch seams firmly when creating the rectangle and when rolling. Chilling the assembled log for 10 minutes before slicing also helps the filling stay in place.
What Makes This Special
These Cinnamon Roll Roll Ups strike the perfect balance between convenience and indulgence—no yeast proofs, no fancy tools, just pantry dough and a luscious cream cheese layer swirled in cinnamon sugar. Their pull-apart design makes sharing (or sneaking a few extra) a breeze, and the silky glaze ties it all together. Feel free to print and tuck this recipe into your binder for easy access next time the craving hits. If you give these a whirl, I’d love to hear how they turned out—drop a comment, ask questions, or share your favorite add-ins!
Cinnamon Roll Roll Ups
Description
These pull-apart swirls feature creamy vanilla-scented filling and warm cinnamon sugar baked to golden perfection, finished with a silky sweet glaze for a comforting breakfast treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well blended. Set aside.
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Open the can of crescent roll dough and unroll it onto a clean surface without separating the triangles. Pinch the seams together to create a single rectangle.
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Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly onto the rectangle of crescent roll dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
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In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
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Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log, ensuring the fillings stay inside.
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Once rolled, slice the log into 12 equal pieces. Place each piece on the prepared baking sheet, cut side up.
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In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with a bit of cinnamon sugar (optional) and brush the top of each roll with the mixture for added flavor.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
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While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing. In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk to reach your desired consistency.
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Once the rolls are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before drizzling the icing on top.
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Serve warm and enjoy the delicious cinnamon roll roll-ups!
Note
- These roll-ups are great for breakfast or as an indulgent dessert.
- You can easily add nuts or raisins to the filling for extra texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving to enjoy them warm again.
