Introduction
Cinnamon sugar cream cheese rolls are the kind of treat that instantly fills the kitchen with warmth and comfort. Soft, pillowy dough wrapped around a rich cinnamon-sugar filling and a creamy layer of lightly sweetened cream cheese creates a roll that is indulgent without being overwhelming. I first made these rolls when I wanted something more decadent than classic cinnamon rolls, and the addition of cream cheese inside completely transformed the texture and flavor. Each bite is tender, gooey, and perfectly balanced between sweetness and tang. These rolls are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert and feel especially special for weekends or gatherings. Whether served warm from the oven or reheated the next day, they deliver bakery-style results with simple, familiar ingredients.
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Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls – Soft, Sweet, and Melt-in-Your-Mouth
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 10 rolls
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft cinnamon sugar cream cheese rolls filled with a sweet, creamy center and rolled in buttery cinnamon sugar, perfect for dessert or breakfast treats.
Ingredients
- 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough or pizza dough
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Unroll dough and press seams together if using crescent dough.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, 1/3 cup sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Spread cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough.
- Roll dough tightly into a log and slice into 1-inch rolls.
- Dip each roll into melted butter.
- Mix remaining sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Roll buttered dough pieces in cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Place rolls into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes until golden.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Serve warm for best texture.
- Can be drizzled with icing or honey.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These rolls are incredibly soft and rich thanks to the cream cheese filling. The cinnamon sugar flavor is classic and comforting, while the texture stays moist and tender. They can be made ahead of time and baked fresh when needed. Perfect for sharing, they are guaranteed to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
All-purpose flour
All-purpose flour forms the structure of the dough, creating soft yet sturdy rolls.
Granulated sugar
Granulated sugar lightly sweetens the dough and balances the filling.
Active dry yeast
Yeast helps the dough rise, giving the rolls their fluffy texture.
Milk
Milk adds moisture and richness to the dough, keeping it soft.
Butter
Butter adds flavor and tenderness to both the dough and filling.
Eggs
Eggs enrich the dough and help create a soft crumb.
Cream cheese
Cream cheese adds a smooth, tangy layer that makes these rolls extra indulgent.
Brown sugar
Brown sugar provides deep sweetness and pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
Ground cinnamon
Cinnamon gives the rolls their warm, signature flavor.
Salt
Salt balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Vanilla extract
Vanilla adds warmth and depth to the filling.
Directions
Begin by warming the milk slightly and dissolving the yeast with a small amount of sugar. Let it sit until foamy. In a large bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, salt, eggs, melted butter, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms, then knead until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise until doubled in size.
While the dough rises, mix softened cream cheese with vanilla until smooth. In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon.
Roll the dough into a rectangle. Spread the cream cheese evenly over the surface, then sprinkle generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture. Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into even rolls.
Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish and let them rise briefly. Bake until golden and cooked through. Allow them to cool slightly before serving warm.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 10 to 12 rolls. Preparation time is about 25 minutes, rising time is 1 hour, baking time is 25 to 30 minutes, and total time is around 2 hours.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. These rolls can also be frozen and reheated as needed.
Variations and Customizations
You can add chopped nuts for extra texture or drizzle a light vanilla glaze over the top for added sweetness. I have also mixed a small amount of powdered sugar into the cream cheese layer for a sweeter filling, which worked beautifully. Orange zest can be added for a bright, aromatic twist.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Cinnamon sugar cream cheese rolls are a rich, indulgent treat made with dairy, flour, and sugar. While not light, they are very satisfying, making smaller portions ideal. They are best enjoyed as a special breakfast or dessert.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Soften Cream Cheese Fully
This ensures smooth spreading without tearing the dough.
Do Not Overbake
Remove rolls once lightly golden to keep them soft.
Slice with Gentle Pressure
Clean cuts help maintain swirl shape.
FAQs
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate overnight before baking.
Can I use instant yeast?
Yes, adjust rising time accordingly.
Why are my rolls dry?
Overbaking is the most common cause.
Can I freeze baked rolls?
Yes, freeze tightly wrapped and reheat when needed.
Is the filling very sweet?
No, the cream cheese balances the sugar well.
Can I add frosting on top?
Yes, a light glaze works beautifully.
Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, though homemade dough gives best texture.
What milk works best?
Whole milk provides the richest result.
Can I make them smaller?
Yes, slice thinner for more rolls.
Are these good for brunch?
Yes, they are ideal for brunch spreads.
Conclusion
Cinnamon sugar cream cheese rolls are a comforting, indulgent treat that combines classic cinnamon sweetness with a rich, creamy twist. Soft, aromatic, and deeply satisfying, they are perfect for special mornings, gatherings, or anytime you want a bakery-style dessert made right at home.
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