Description
These Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls are a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar with a creamy cheesecake filling. Imagine biting into a soft, buttery roll with a warm, gooey center. This recipe is surprisingly simple to make, yet it delivers a bakery-worthy result that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. These rolls are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a great addition to any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Rolls:
- 1 loaf white sandwich bread (crusts removed)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Preparation:
Step 1: Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat with a mixer until smooth and creamy. Ensure there are no lumps for the best texture. Set the filling aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Mix: In a shallow dish, mix together ½ cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon until well combined. This mixture will coat the rolls, providing a sweet and aromatic crust.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls: Use a rolling pin to flatten each slice of bread. Flattening the bread ensures that the rolls will hold their shape and have a consistent texture. Spread approximately 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese filling along one edge of each flattened bread slice.
Step 4: Roll and Coat: Roll each bread slice up tightly, starting from the edge with the cream cheese filling, creating a small log. Dip each roll into the melted butter, ensuring it is fully coated. Then, roll the buttered roll through the cinnamon sugar mixture until it is completely covered.
Step 5: Bake: Place the prepared rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–18 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside.
Why you’ll love this recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it’s incredibly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients, yet it tastes like a gourmet treat. The combination of the soft, buttery roll, the warm cinnamon-sugar coating, and the creamy cheesecake filling is irresistible. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls warm for the best experience.
- Drizzle with a cream cheese glaze or melted white chocolate for extra indulgence.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a classic bakery finish.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Serve alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or dessert.
Tips:
- Use day-old bread for best results. Day-old bread holds its shape better and becomes crispier when baked.
- Soften the cream cheese completely to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Don’t overfill the rolls to prevent the cream cheese from leaking out during baking.
- For an extra flavor boost, add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 15-18 minutes Total Time: 30-33 minutes
Nutrition Information: (Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 per roll
- Protein: Approximately 4-5 grams per roll
- Sodium: Approximately 150-200 mg per roll
Conclusion
These Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that’s sure to impress. With their soft, buttery texture, creamy filling, and sweet cinnamon-sugar coating, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls are guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy the warm, gooey goodness!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use different types of bread such as brioche or challah bread for a richer flavor and texture. However, white sandwich bread works best as it is soft and easy to roll.
- Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover them tightly to prevent them from drying out.
- What can I use instead of cream cheese?
- If you don’t have cream cheese, you can use mascarpone cheese or a mixture of ricotta cheese and sour cream as a substitute.
- How do I prevent the cream cheese from leaking out during baking?
- To prevent the cream cheese from leaking, make sure not to overfill the rolls and roll them up tightly. Also, ensure the bread slices are well flattened before adding the filling.
- Can I freeze these rolls?
- Yes, you can freeze the baked rolls. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
