Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough Rolls: A Quick Breakfast Treat

Oh, sweet friends, there’s truly nothing quite like the aroma of fresh baking wafting through your home. It’s a scent that instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where every crumb held a story and every spoonful of sugar was a sprinkle of magic. Today, I’m so excited to share a recipe that embodies that very warmth and comfort: these delightful Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough swirls. They’re a beautiful dance of flaky, buttery dough, a gentle hug of cinnamon, and the irresistible sparkle of sugar – a simple pleasure that feels utterly gourmet.

I remember one crisp autumn morning, my grandmother, with flour dusting her apron, showed me how to roll out dough, her hands working with such grace. We’d always have some extra crescent dough, and she’d say, “Sara, let’s make something special with this!” It was in those moments, experimenting with simple ingredients, that my passion for baking truly bloomed. These little swirls are a direct descendant of those cherished memories, a testament to how even humble beginnings can lead to the most delightful treats.

This recipe for Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough isn’t just easy to bake; it’s a family-friendly dream, perfect for those mornings when you want something special without all the fuss. It’s an ideal way to bring smiles to the breakfast table, or even as a comforting afternoon pick-me-up. My top tip for these? Always make sure your butter is perfectly softened – it makes spreading so much smoother!

What You Need to Make This Recipe

Crafting these delightful swirls requires just a handful of simple ingredients, proving that extraordinary flavor often comes from the humblest beginnings. We’re talking about those versatile refrigerated crescent dinner rolls, rich unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and, of course, a generous sprinkle of fragrant ground cinnamon. I always reach for good quality cinnamon for that extra warmth that truly makes these Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough treats sing. You’ll find the full list of ingredients and their precise measurements in the recipe card below, ready to guide your sweet adventure.

How to Make Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough

Whipping up a batch of these glorious Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough swirls is a truly joyful experience, and wonderfully straightforward! You’ll begin by unrolling that convenient crescent dough, gently pressing the seams together to create a smooth canvas. Next, we spread on softened butter, a luscious base for our sweet cinnamon-sugar blend. A generous sprinkle follows, then a careful roll, a quick slice, and into the oven they go. In mere minutes, your kitchen will be filled with the most heavenly aroma, promising a treat that tastes as good as it smells.

A close-up shows uncooked Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough twists sprinkled with sugar, arranged on parchment paper on a baking sheet, ready to bake.

Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough Swirls

Quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious, these warm, buttery crescent dough swirls are coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar mixture, perfect for a delightful breakfast, a quick snack, or an easy dessert.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 16 pieces
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 100

Ingredients
  

For the Swirls
  • 1 can refrigerated crescent dinner rolls 8 ounce, such as Pillsbury
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Small Bowl
  • Pastry Brush

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until they are thoroughly combined. Set this mixture aside.
  3. Carefully unroll the can of crescent dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Do not separate the individual crescent triangles. Instead, press firmly along all the perforations to seal them together, forming one large, cohesive rectangle of dough.
  4. Using a pastry brush (or the back of a spoon if you don’t have one), evenly spread the melted butter over the entire surface of the crescent dough rectangle. Ensure the dough is well-coated.
  5. Generously sprinkle the prepared cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered dough. Make sure the coating is as even as possible, reaching all edges of the dough.
  6. Starting from one of the longer sides of the dough rectangle, carefully and tightly roll the dough into a log. Try to keep the roll as uniform in thickness as possible.
  7. Using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss, slice the rolled log into 16 even-sized rounds, approximately 3/4-inch thick. If using floss, slide it under the log, cross the ends over the top, and pull to cut cleanly. Arrange the slices cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each swirl to allow for expansion.
  8. Bake the cinnamon-sugar crescent swirls for 10-12 minutes, or until they are puffed, golden brown, and cooked through. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning.
  9. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the swirls cool on the sheet for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm for the best experience, or at room temperature.

Notes

For an extra layer of sweetness, you can drizzle a simple glaze over the cooled swirls: whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of milk or water and 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Ensure the dough is rolled tightly to prevent the swirls from unraveling during baking. Store any leftover swirls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave or oven for a fresh-baked taste.

Pro Tips for Making This Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough

Over the years, I’ve learned a few little tricks that make these Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough delights even more magical. It’s all about those small details that elevate a simple recipe into something truly special!

For instance, when you’re unrolling your crescent dough, take a moment to gently press those perforations together, creating a seamless sheet. This prevents any gaps when you roll, ensuring your swirls hold their beautiful shape. I always do this to make sure every bite is perfectly uniform.

My Secret Trick: Before slicing your rolled dough, pop it into the freezer for about 10-15 minutes. This firms up the butter and dough, making it much easier to get clean, crisp slices. It really makes a difference in how neat your Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough swirls look!

Don’t be shy with the cinnamon-sugar! A generous coating on the buttered dough is what gives these swirls their signature flavor and beautiful caramelized edges. My top tip is to mix the sugar and cinnamon thoroughly beforehand, so every sprinkle is perfectly balanced.

And finally, watch them closely in the oven. Ovens can be a bit whimsical, so keep an eye out for that perfect golden brown. You want them cooked through, with a delightful crispness, but still tender inside.

Fun Variations for Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough

One of the things I adore most about baking is the freedom to play and experiment, turning a beloved classic into something new! These Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough swirls are wonderfully adaptable, inviting your creativity into the kitchen.

Zesty Citrus Swirls

For a bright twist, try adding some finely grated orange or lemon zest to your cinnamon-sugar mixture. My sister always asks me to swirl in a hint of orange zest; she says it adds a sunny brightness to the classic flavor. This simple addition elevates the Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough with a refreshing aroma.

Chocolatey Indulgence

If you’re a chocolate lover like I am, consider sprinkling a handful of mini chocolate chips over the buttered dough before rolling. The melting chocolate creates pockets of pure bliss within the flaky pastry. A friend loves when I make them with a mix of cinnamon and chocolate!

Nutty Crunch

For a textural delight, finely chop some pecans or walnuts and sprinkle them alongside the cinnamon-sugar. The nuts add a lovely crunch and a rich, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet spices. It’s a fantastic way to add another layer of flavor and texture to your Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough.

What to Serve With Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough

These warm, fragrant Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough swirls are truly delightful on their own, but pairing them with a few simple accompaniments can turn them into an even more memorable treat! Just like a cozy quilt on a chilly evening, some things are simply better together.

For me, there’s nothing quite like a steaming mug of strong coffee or a comforting cup of tea to accompany these sweet bites. The slight bitterness of the coffee perfectly balances the sweetness of the swirls. My mom always pairs them with hot cocoa in winter, which creates the ultimate cozy breakfast.

Another wonderful option is a bowl of fresh berries – raspberries, blueberries, or sliced strawberries add a burst of freshness and a beautiful pop of color. And if you’re feeling a little extra indulgent, a dollop of softly whipped cream or a light drizzle of a simple cream cheese glaze takes these Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough rolls to a whole new level of decadence.

How to Store Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough

It’s a rare occasion to have any of these scrumptious Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough swirls leftover, but when you do, knowing how to store them properly ensures every bite remains as delicious as the first! My goal is always to keep that beautiful flavor and texture intact.

Once completely cooled, place your leftover Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough swirls in an airtight container. They’ll keep beautifully at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can pop them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. I like storing cakes and pastries in airtight containers to keep them wonderfully moist and flavorful.

Reheating for Freshness

To enjoy them as if they’ve just come out of the oven, a quick reheat is all they need. You can warm them gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or for that lovely crispness, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes. A light dusting of powdered sugar after reheating truly brings them back to life!

Nutritional Benefits

While these Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough swirls are undoubtedly a treat, they’re also made with simple, recognizable ingredients. Crescent rolls provide a quick source of energy, and cinnamon itself is a spice celebrated for its antioxidant properties. For me, the true nutritional benefit lies in the joy and comfort they bring, creating a moment that’s both satisfying and nourishing for the soul.

FAQs

Faq 1

Can I prepare these Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough swirls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the swirls, slice them, and then cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply pop them into the oven to bake. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a fresh breakfast with minimal morning fuss.

Faq 2

What’s the best way to get perfectly golden Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough?
For that beautiful golden hue and crisp texture, ensure your oven is fully preheated. Watch them carefully during the last few minutes of baking, as ovens can vary. They’re done when they’re nicely puffed and golden brown.

Faq 3

Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent dough for this recipe?
While crescent dough gives these swirls their signature tender-flaky texture, puff pastry can certainly be used for a more delicate, crisp result. The baking time might need slight adjustment, but the concept for Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough remains delicious!

Faq 4

How can I make these Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough more decadent?
For an extra touch of indulgence, consider drizzling a simple vanilla or cream cheese glaze over the warm swirls. A sprinkle of toasted pecans or a light dusting of powdered sugar also elevates these delightful treats wonderfully.

Conclusion

And there you have it, sweet friends – a recipe for Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough swirls that’s bound to fill your home with warmth and your hearts with joy. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, a little love, and a dash of patience can create truly magical treats. My greatest hope is that you’ll embrace the joy of creating these homemade delights, making memories around your own kitchen table, just as I did in my grandmother’s. Happy baking, and may your days be filled with sweet moments!

Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough Rolls: A Quick Breakfast Treat

Oh, sweet friends, there’s truly nothing quite like the aroma of fresh baking wafting through your home. It’s a scent that instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where every crumb held a story and every spoonful of sugar was a sprinkle of magic. Today, I’m so excited to share a recipe that embodies that very warmth and comfort: these delightful Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough swirls. They’re a beautiful dance of flaky, buttery dough, a gentle hug of cinnamon, and the irresistible sparkle of sugar – a simple pleasure that feels utterly gourmet.

I remember one crisp autumn morning, my grandmother, with flour dusting her apron, showed me how to roll out dough, her hands working with such grace. We’d always have some extra crescent dough, and she’d say, “Sara, let’s make something special with this!” It was in those moments, experimenting with simple ingredients, that my passion for baking truly bloomed. These little swirls are a direct descendant of those cherished memories, a testament to how even humble beginnings can lead to the most delightful treats.

This recipe for Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough isn’t just easy to bake; it’s a family-friendly dream, perfect for those mornings when you want something special without all the fuss. It’s an ideal way to bring smiles to the breakfast table, or even as a comforting afternoon pick-me-up. My top tip for these? Always make sure your butter is perfectly softened – it makes spreading so much smoother!

What You Need to Make This Recipe

Crafting these delightful swirls requires just a handful of simple ingredients, proving that extraordinary flavor often comes from the humblest beginnings. We’re talking about those versatile refrigerated crescent dinner rolls, rich unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and, of course, a generous sprinkle of fragrant ground cinnamon. I always reach for good quality cinnamon for that extra warmth that truly makes these Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough treats sing. You’ll find the full list of ingredients and their precise measurements in the recipe card below, ready to guide your sweet adventure.

How to Make Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough

Whipping up a batch of these glorious Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough swirls is a truly joyful experience, and wonderfully straightforward! You’ll begin by unrolling that convenient crescent dough, gently pressing the seams together to create a smooth canvas. Next, we spread on softened butter, a luscious base for our sweet cinnamon-sugar blend. A generous sprinkle follows, then a careful roll, a quick slice, and into the oven they go. In mere minutes, your kitchen will be filled with the most heavenly aroma, promising a treat that tastes as good as it smells.

A close-up shows uncooked Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough twists sprinkled with sugar, arranged on parchment paper on a baking sheet, ready to bake.

Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough Swirls

Quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious, these warm, buttery crescent dough swirls are coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar mixture, perfect for a delightful breakfast, a quick snack, or an easy dessert.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 16 pieces
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 100

Ingredients
  

For the Swirls
  • 1 can refrigerated crescent dinner rolls 8 ounce, such as Pillsbury
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Small Bowl
  • Pastry Brush

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until they are thoroughly combined. Set this mixture aside.
  3. Carefully unroll the can of crescent dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Do not separate the individual crescent triangles. Instead, press firmly along all the perforations to seal them together, forming one large, cohesive rectangle of dough.
  4. Using a pastry brush (or the back of a spoon if you don’t have one), evenly spread the melted butter over the entire surface of the crescent dough rectangle. Ensure the dough is well-coated.
  5. Generously sprinkle the prepared cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered dough. Make sure the coating is as even as possible, reaching all edges of the dough.
  6. Starting from one of the longer sides of the dough rectangle, carefully and tightly roll the dough into a log. Try to keep the roll as uniform in thickness as possible.
  7. Using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss, slice the rolled log into 16 even-sized rounds, approximately 3/4-inch thick. If using floss, slide it under the log, cross the ends over the top, and pull to cut cleanly. Arrange the slices cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each swirl to allow for expansion.
  8. Bake the cinnamon-sugar crescent swirls for 10-12 minutes, or until they are puffed, golden brown, and cooked through. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning.
  9. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the swirls cool on the sheet for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm for the best experience, or at room temperature.

Notes

For an extra layer of sweetness, you can drizzle a simple glaze over the cooled swirls: whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of milk or water and 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Ensure the dough is rolled tightly to prevent the swirls from unraveling during baking. Store any leftover swirls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave or oven for a fresh-baked taste.

Pro Tips for Making This Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough

Over the years, I’ve learned a few little tricks that make these Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough delights even more magical. It’s all about those small details that elevate a simple recipe into something truly special!

For instance, when you’re unrolling your crescent dough, take a moment to gently press those perforations together, creating a seamless sheet. This prevents any gaps when you roll, ensuring your swirls hold their beautiful shape. I always do this to make sure every bite is perfectly uniform.

My Secret Trick: Before slicing your rolled dough, pop it into the freezer for about 10-15 minutes. This firms up the butter and dough, making it much easier to get clean, crisp slices. It really makes a difference in how neat your Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough swirls look!

Don’t be shy with the cinnamon-sugar! A generous coating on the buttered dough is what gives these swirls their signature flavor and beautiful caramelized edges. My top tip is to mix the sugar and cinnamon thoroughly beforehand, so every sprinkle is perfectly balanced.

And finally, watch them closely in the oven. Ovens can be a bit whimsical, so keep an eye out for that perfect golden brown. You want them cooked through, with a delightful crispness, but still tender inside.

Fun Variations for Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough

One of the things I adore most about baking is the freedom to play and experiment, turning a beloved classic into something new! These Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough swirls are wonderfully adaptable, inviting your creativity into the kitchen.

Zesty Citrus Swirls

For a bright twist, try adding some finely grated orange or lemon zest to your cinnamon-sugar mixture. My sister always asks me to swirl in a hint of orange zest; she says it adds a sunny brightness to the classic flavor. This simple addition elevates the Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough with a refreshing aroma.

Chocolatey Indulgence

If you’re a chocolate lover like I am, consider sprinkling a handful of mini chocolate chips over the buttered dough before rolling. The melting chocolate creates pockets of pure bliss within the flaky pastry. A friend loves when I make them with a mix of cinnamon and chocolate!

Nutty Crunch

For a textural delight, finely chop some pecans or walnuts and sprinkle them alongside the cinnamon-sugar. The nuts add a lovely crunch and a rich, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet spices. It’s a fantastic way to add another layer of flavor and texture to your Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough.

What to Serve With Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough

These warm, fragrant Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough swirls are truly delightful on their own, but pairing them with a few simple accompaniments can turn them into an even more memorable treat! Just like a cozy quilt on a chilly evening, some things are simply better together.

For me, there’s nothing quite like a steaming mug of strong coffee or a comforting cup of tea to accompany these sweet bites. The slight bitterness of the coffee perfectly balances the sweetness of the swirls. My mom always pairs them with hot cocoa in winter, which creates the ultimate cozy breakfast.

Another wonderful option is a bowl of fresh berries – raspberries, blueberries, or sliced strawberries add a burst of freshness and a beautiful pop of color. And if you’re feeling a little extra indulgent, a dollop of softly whipped cream or a light drizzle of a simple cream cheese glaze takes these Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough rolls to a whole new level of decadence.

How to Store Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough

It’s a rare occasion to have any of these scrumptious Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough swirls leftover, but when you do, knowing how to store them properly ensures every bite remains as delicious as the first! My goal is always to keep that beautiful flavor and texture intact.

Once completely cooled, place your leftover Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough swirls in an airtight container. They’ll keep beautifully at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can pop them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. I like storing cakes and pastries in airtight containers to keep them wonderfully moist and flavorful.

Reheating for Freshness

To enjoy them as if they’ve just come out of the oven, a quick reheat is all they need. You can warm them gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or for that lovely crispness, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes. A light dusting of powdered sugar after reheating truly brings them back to life!

Nutritional Benefits

While these Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough swirls are undoubtedly a treat, they’re also made with simple, recognizable ingredients. Crescent rolls provide a quick source of energy, and cinnamon itself is a spice celebrated for its antioxidant properties. For me, the true nutritional benefit lies in the joy and comfort they bring, creating a moment that’s both satisfying and nourishing for the soul.

FAQs

Faq 1

Can I prepare these Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough swirls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the swirls, slice them, and then cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply pop them into the oven to bake. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a fresh breakfast with minimal morning fuss.

Faq 2

What’s the best way to get perfectly golden Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough?
For that beautiful golden hue and crisp texture, ensure your oven is fully preheated. Watch them carefully during the last few minutes of baking, as ovens can vary. They’re done when they’re nicely puffed and golden brown.

Faq 3

Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent dough for this recipe?
While crescent dough gives these swirls their signature tender-flaky texture, puff pastry can certainly be used for a more delicate, crisp result. The baking time might need slight adjustment, but the concept for Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough remains delicious!

Faq 4

How can I make these Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough more decadent?
For an extra touch of indulgence, consider drizzling a simple vanilla or cream cheese glaze over the warm swirls. A sprinkle of toasted pecans or a light dusting of powdered sugar also elevates these delightful treats wonderfully.

Conclusion

And there you have it, sweet friends – a recipe for Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Dough swirls that’s bound to fill your home with warmth and your hearts with joy. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, a little love, and a dash of patience can create truly magical treats. My greatest hope is that you’ll embrace the joy of creating these homemade delights, making memories around your own kitchen table, just as I did in my grandmother’s. Happy baking, and may your days be filled with sweet moments!

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