Flaky, buttery Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls layered with cinnamon and sugar, rolled into perfect swirls and baked to golden perfection—this easy recipe is a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls. I love how quick and simple it is to make, yet it delivers a deliciously crisp and tender treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/3 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
1 tablespoon milk or cream (for glaze)
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet into a rectangle about 10x12 inches.
Brush the melted butter evenly over the entire surface of the puff pastry.
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered puff pastry.
Starting from one of the longer edges, carefully roll the pastry into a tight log.
Slice the log into 8 equal pieces and place them cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly apart.
Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the rolls are puffed up and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
Meanwhile, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make the glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 8 cinnamon rolls. The total time to make them is about 28 minutes—10 minutes for preparation and 18 minutes for baking. It’s a great quick recipe when I want a freshly baked treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
Variations
I like to switch things up by adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for some crunch. Sometimes, I sprinkle a handful of raisins or dried cranberries on top of the cinnamon sugar before rolling the pastry for a fruity twist. For an extra indulgent touch, I’ve also tried spreading a thin layer of cream cheese before sprinkling the cinnamon sugar. This adds a creamy tanginess that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
If I have leftovers, I store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigeration works well for up to 4 days, but I always let them come to room temperature before reheating. For reheating, I warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, which helps keep the pastry flaky and the glaze soft. I avoid microwaving since it can make the pastry soggy.
FAQs
How do I thaw puff pastry properly?
I usually thaw puff pastry overnight in the refrigerator. If I’m in a hurry, I leave it at room temperature for about 30-40 minutes until it’s pliable but still cold.
Can I use homemade puff pastry for this recipe?
Absolutely! If I have the time, homemade puff pastry adds an extra special touch. Just make sure it’s well chilled before rolling and filling.
Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes, I sometimes prepare the rolls up to the slicing step, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, I bake them fresh for the best puff and crispiness.
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
If I’m out of brown sugar, I use granulated sugar with a little molasses added, or just plain granulated sugar, though the flavor will be less rich.
Is it necessary to use the glaze?
I like the glaze because it adds sweetness and moisture, but the rolls are delicious even without it. A simple dusting of powdered sugar can also be a nice alternative.
Conclusion
These puff pastry cinnamon rolls are a fantastic shortcut to enjoy the classic cinnamon roll flavors without the fuss of yeast dough. I love how the puff pastry creates flaky layers that make each bite light yet flavorful. Whether I’m making them for a quick breakfast or a cozy afternoon treat, they never fail to satisfy. Give this recipe a try whenever I want a fast and delicious way to indulge in cinnamon sweetness.
Recipe:

Puff Pastry Cinnamon Rolls
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 8 cinnamon rolls
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Flaky, buttery puff pastry cinnamon rolls layered with cinnamon and sugar, baked to golden perfection for a quick and delicious treat.
Ingredients
1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
⅓ cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
1 tablespoon milk or cream (for glaze)
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet into a rectangle about 10x12 inches.
- Brush the melted butter evenly over the entire surface of the puff pastry.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered puff pastry.
- Starting from one of the longer edges, carefully roll the pastry into a tight log.
- Slice the log into 8 equal pieces and place them cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly apart.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the rolls are puffed up and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Meanwhile, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make the glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Optional: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts before rolling for extra crunch.
Try adding raisins or dried cranberries on top of the cinnamon sugar for a fruity twist.
For a creamy touch, spread a thin layer of cream cheese before adding the cinnamon sugar.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate up to 4 days.
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to maintain flakiness; avoid microwaving.
Thaw puff pastry overnight in the fridge or 30-40 minutes at room temperature before use.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cinnamon roll
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg