Roll Ups Recipes Cinnamon Cream Cheese Roll Ups for Dessert Brunch and Snacks

Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Roll Ups

Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Roll Ups are the ultimate fusion of buttery pastry, velvety filling, and sweet spiced topping. These bite-sized treats are a perfect answer to last-minute dessert needs, indulgent brunch spreads, or even cozy afternoon snacks. With their crisp exterior, warm cream cheese filling, and a dusting of cinnamon sugar, they offer a bakery-quality experience from the comfort of your kitchen.

Their versatility makes them a crowd favorite: serve them warm with coffee, pack them for a potluck, or pair them with fruit and chocolate for a brunch board. The best part? You can whip them up in under 20 minutes using store-bought crescent roll dough, which simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor.

Crescent roll dough has long been a staple for easy baking recipes, thanks to its flaky texture and versatility. According to Wikipedia, this dough is commonly used in both sweet and savory preparations. Combined with cream cheese, which provides the smooth, tangy base for the filling, these roll ups strike a balance between sweet and rich that few snacks can match.

This article walks you through everything you need to know about making cinnamon sugar cream cheese roll ups, from ingredient tips to creative variations. Along the way, we’ll offer pro baking shortcuts, highlight smart storage hacks, and even show you how to use an air fryer for faster results. Whether you’re new to baking or looking for a go-to treat, this recipe has you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with cinnamon sugar cream cheese roll ups, and once you try them, you’ll understand why they’re quickly becoming a staple in kitchens everywhere. These little pastries are not only easy to make, but they’re also packed with flavor, texture, and customizable options for any occasion.

• Quick and Convenient: With only a few ingredients—like store-bought crescent roll dough and softened cream cheese—this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes from prep to plate. It’s a perfect last-minute dessert or mid-morning snack. If you’re pressed for time, refrigerated dough offers the convenience of skipping the kneading and rising process. Learn more about its use in baking on Wikipedia’s crescent roll page.

• Flavor-Packed Layers: The cream cheese filling delivers a smooth and slightly tangy balance to the sweet cinnamon sugar coating. You can enhance this by adding a touch of vanilla extract, which deepens the flavor. Vanilla extract is a baking essential, and its role in sweets like this is thoroughly explained on Wikipedia.

• Kid-Friendly and Party-Ready: These roll ups are great for brunch spreads, lunchbox treats, or holiday dessert trays. Serve them warm with a drizzle of glaze or chilled as part of a larger snack board. On Pinterest, you’ll find inspiration for brunch displays that pair beautifully with these pastries.

• Customizable for Any Season: Switch up the fillings with seasonal ingredients like pumpkin puree in fall or fresh berries in summer. You can even make them savory by skipping the sugar and opting for garlic cream cheese and herbs.

• Freezer-Friendly & Make-Ahead: If you love planning meals in advance, these roll ups freeze well and reheat beautifully, which makes them ideal for make ahead breakfast rolls you can find on Pinterest.

Their simplicity doesn’t sacrifice elegance—they look as good as they taste. Whether you’re preparing a fancy brunch or just need a sweet snack recipe to pair with afternoon tea, these roll ups are a sure win. Curious about more creative ideas using cream cheese in desserts? Explore rich combinations on Pinterest for more inspiration.

Ingredients Breakdown & Substitutions

When it comes to crafting the perfect cinnamon sugar cream cheese roll ups, each ingredient plays an essential role in texture, flavor, and balance. Understanding what each component does—and how you can substitute it—ensures bakery-level results every time.

For the Filling

• Cream Cheese: The star of the filling, cream cheese adds creaminess and a mild tang that complements the cinnamon sugar. Use full-fat for the richest texture, but light versions also work if you want something less dense. According to Wikipedia, this ingredient’s smooth consistency and mild flavor make it ideal for both sweet and savory applications.

• Powdered Sugar: Also called icing sugar, it blends smoothly into the cream cheese without a gritty texture. You can learn more about its role in confections on Wikipedia. Substitute with honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness, adjusting the consistency as needed.

• Vanilla Extract: Adds aromatic warmth and depth to the filling. Whether you choose pure or imitation, vanilla extract brings balance to the sugary flavor profile. Find detailed information about it on Wikipedia.

For the Dough

• Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough: The foundation of this recipe, crescent roll dough creates the light, flaky layers that wrap the creamy filling. Using pre-made dough saves time while offering consistent results. According to Wikipedia, this pastry has been a staple of convenient baking for decades. If you’re adventurous, homemade or puff pastry versions work too.

• Alternative Options: For gluten-free diets, seek out gluten-free crescent rolls or use puff pastry sheets—just adjust bake time for texture.

Cinnamon Sugar Mix

• Granulated Sugar: Adds crunch and caramelization to the roll ups. You can experiment with brown sugar for a deeper, molasses-like sweetness.

• Ground Cinnamon: The heart of the recipe, cinnamon provides the cozy, aromatic note that defines these pastries. Learn more about its history and uses from Wikipedia. Opt for Ceylon cinnamon for a softer, more floral flavor or cassia for a bolder spice.

Optional Toppings

• Powdered Sugar Glaze: A drizzle of glaze (made from powdered sugar and milk) creates an elegant finish. For creative serving ideas, check out sweet snack recipes on Pinterest.

• Add-Ons: Sprinkle crushed nuts, drizzle caramel, or add a touch of cream cheese dessert frosting for extra flair. Explore fun garnish ideas on Pinterest.

Each ingredient contributes to a delicate balance of flavor and texture. The right mix ensures these roll ups turn out perfectly golden, sweetly spiced, and irresistibly creamy every time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making cinnamon sugar cream cheese roll ups is quick and straightforward, especially when using ready-to-bake ingredients. Below is a step-by-step breakdown to help you get that perfect golden exterior and creamy, sweet interior every time.

Prepping the Filling

1. Soften the Cream Cheese: Begin by allowing the cream cheese to sit at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes. This helps it mix smoothly without lumps. In a pinch, you can microwave it in short 10-second bursts, stirring in between.

2. Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or whisk until the mixture is completely smooth and fluffy. This forms the rich, tangy-sweet core of the roll ups.

Prepping the Dough

1. Unroll the Dough: Open the can of crescent roll dough and gently unroll it onto a clean surface. According to Wikipedia, this type of dough is pre-sectioned into triangles, making it ideal for quick shaping.

2. Separate the Triangles: Carefully divide the dough into its 8 perforated triangle sections. Work on a non-stick mat or parchment paper to avoid sticking and tearing.

Assembling the Rolls

1. Spread the Filling: On each triangle, add about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture. Spread it evenly, leaving a small margin around the edges to prevent overflow during baking.

2. Roll Up the Dough: Starting at the wide end, roll the dough tightly toward the narrow tip, just like a classic crescent roll. Tuck in the sides slightly if needed to hold in the filling.

For ideas on adding these to a themed brunch board, check out creative presentations on Pinterest. They make a visually appealing addition to any breakfast or dessert display.

Baking and Finishing Touches

1. Brush with Butter: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and brush it over the tops of the rolled pastries. This step helps the cinnamon sugar stick and promotes a golden, crispy exterior.

2. Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar: Mix granulated sugar with ground cinnamon, then generously sprinkle it over each roll. The sugar caramelizes during baking, adding crunch and flavor. For more about cinnamon’s properties, check Wikipedia.

3. Bake: Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12–14 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.

4. Cool and Glaze (Optional): Allow to cool slightly before serving. If desired, drizzle with a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a glossy, sweet finish.

Looking for more ways to enjoy sweet and easy bakes? Browse additional sweet snack recipes on Pinterest to pair with these roll ups.

Tips for Perfect Cream Cheese Roll Ups Every Time

Achieving flawless cinnamon sugar cream cheese roll ups isn’t difficult, but a few expert baking tips can help you avoid common mistakes and elevate the final result. Whether you’re preparing them for a party, holiday brunch, or a cozy weekend treat, these strategies will help you get bakery-level quality every time.

• Prevent Soggy Bottoms: Moisture is the enemy of crisp pastries. Make sure your cream cheese filling isn’t too loose—if it is, add a little more powdered sugar to thicken it. Don’t overfill the dough, as it can leak and create soggy spots underneath.

• Even Browning: Use a light-colored baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for best results. Darker pans may brown the bottoms too quickly. For even more precise baking, place your rolls in the center rack of the oven.

• Use Cold Dough: Keep the crescent roll dough cold until you’re ready to use it. Warm dough becomes sticky and harder to roll. If the dough softens too much while working, pop it into the fridge for 5–10 minutes.

• Work Fast with the Filling: Once the cream cheese is spread, roll the dough immediately to prevent it from becoming too soft or sticky. You can even prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

• Seal the Edges Lightly: Pinching the ends of the dough or tucking them slightly under the roll helps contain the filling during baking. While these are not sealed pastries, a little extra care reduces the chance of leaks.

• Use Quality Cinnamon: The flavor of cinnamon can vary depending on the type. Ceylon cinnamon has a mild, sweet flavor, while cassia is more pungent and bold. You can learn more about these types on Wikipedia. Choose the one that matches your flavor preference for the roll ups.

• Cool Slightly Before Serving: While tempting, don’t serve the roll ups immediately after baking. Letting them cool for 5–10 minutes allows the filling to set, making them easier to eat and enhancing flavor.

If you’re interested in more techniques for baking or want to explore cream cheese dessert ideas, head over to Pinterest for additional inspiration and serving presentations. These tips, along with your creativity, are all you need to master this delightful recipe.