Pie Crust Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

If you love the cozy, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls but are short on time or dough-making patience, you are about to fall head over heels for this Pie Crust Cinnamon Rolls Recipe. Using ready-made pie crusts, this clever twist delivers all the sweet, buttery, cinnamon-spiced delight with minimal effort and maximum yum. Flaky, soft, and drizzled with a luscious vanilla glaze, these cinnamon rolls become the perfect quick treat for breakfast, brunch, or any sweet craving moment that arises.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple pantry staples, each playing a key role in transforming humble pie crusts into irresistible cinnamon rolls. Every element adds something essential: sweetness, spice, buttery richness, or that shiny glaze finish.

• 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade pie crust, 2 sheets): The base that provides flaky, tender layers without the fuss.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds luscious richness and helps the cinnamon sugar stick.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings deep molasses sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon: The star spice giving that warm, fragrant flavor burst.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: For the dreamy, smooth glaze topping.
• 2 tbsp milk (or more for desired consistency): Blends the glaze to just the right drizzle texture.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic note to the glaze that ties everything together.

How to Make Pie Crust Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Surface

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the rolls to golden perfection. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease—this makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.

Step 2: Roll Out the Pie Crust

Open your pie crust sheets and lay one flat on a clean surface. If it has any wrinkles or folds, gently use a rolling pin to smooth it out just a bit. This helps create an even canvas for the buttery cinnamon sugar to spread on.

Step 3: Spread the Butter

Use a spatula or knife to evenly spread the softened unsalted butter over the entire surface of the pie crust. This buttery layer acts like a glue and keeps the filling moist and flavorful.

Step 4: Mix and Sprinkle the Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle this fragrant mixture evenly over the buttered surface, making sure every inch has a generous dusting so every bite offers sweet, spicy goodness.

Step 5: Roll Up the Crust

Starting from one edge, carefully roll the pie crust into a tight log. Roll gently but firmly to keep the filling inside without squishing the crust too flat. It should look like a cinnamon roll log ready for slicing.

Step 6: Slice the Rolls

Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into approximately 1-inch thick slices. The neat pieces will become those classic cinnamon roll spirals you know and love. Arrange them on your prepared baking sheet with a little space in between.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Brown

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. The rolls will puff slightly and develop a gorgeous golden brown color. Keep an eye on them—they’re perfect when lightly crisp on the edges but tender inside.

Step 8: Prepare the Vanilla Glaze

While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl to create a smooth glaze. Adjust by adding more milk if you want it thinner and easier to drizzle over the rolls.

Step 9: Glaze the Warm Rolls

Once your cinnamon rolls come out of the oven, let them cool just a couple of minutes so the glaze doesn’t melt away instantly. Then, drizzle the luscious vanilla glaze over each warm roll, letting it seep into the swirls and add that finishing touch of sweetness.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Serve these Pie Crust Cinnamon Rolls Recipe treats warm for the ultimate cozy experience. Their flaky layers and sweet, spicy goodness make them irresistible at any time of day.

How to Serve Pie Crust Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

You can add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze for a lovely crunch and nutty contrast. A light dusting of cinnamon or a sprinkle of colored sanding sugar can give your rolls an extra festive appeal.

Side Dishes

These cinnamon rolls pair wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee, spiced chai, or even a glass of cold milk. If serving for brunch, consider fresh fruit or a dollop of creamy yogurt alongside for balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing display, arrange the cinnamon rolls in a circle on a large platter and drizzle glaze in a spiral. You could also serve mini versions on skewers for a fun finger-food twist at casual gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, store any leftover Pie Crust Cinnamon Rolls Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and flavorful without drying out.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later enjoyment, freeze the unglazed rolls after slicing and placing them on the baking sheet. Wrap tightly once frozen and store up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

Warm your leftover cinnamon rolls in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-8 minutes. Reapply glaze if desired to refresh that melt-in-your-mouth finish.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated?

Absolutely! Homemade pie crust works beautifully and lets you control the ingredients. Just roll it out thin as you would with store-bought for the same tender and flaky result.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based spread and use your favorite non-dairy milk for the glaze. The texture and flavor remain fantastic with these simple swaps.

How can I make these rolls more indulgent?

Try adding cream cheese frosting instead of the vanilla glaze, or sprinkle mini chocolate chips inside the cinnamon sugar filling before rolling for extra decadence.

Do I need to let the rolls rise before baking?

No need! The pie crust acts like a quick dough that doesn’t require rising, making this recipe much faster than traditional cinnamon rolls without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Can I prepare these cinnamon rolls the night before?

You can assemble the rolls and keep them refrigerated overnight. Bring them to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking and that delightful flaky texture.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you give this Pie Crust Cinnamon Rolls Recipe a try because it’s such a brilliant way to enjoy cinnamon rolls without hours of prep. It’s quick, easy, and produces irresistibly tasty results that bring a smile to every bite. Whether you whip them up for breakfast, snack time, or a sweet surprise, these cinnamon rolls are sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection!

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