Easy Cinnamon Scrolls with Puff Pastry Recipe

Cinnamon scrolls made with puff pastry offer a quick, flaky alternative to traditional yeast-based recipes. Using store-bought puff pastry cuts preparation time to just 20 minutes while delivering deliciously layered, buttery results with that signature cinnamon-sugar swirl. This method requires no kneading or rising time, making it perfect for last-minute baking.

When you're craving homemade cinnamon rolls but don't have hours to wait for dough to rise, puff pastry cinnamon scrolls provide the perfect solution. This clever adaptation transforms store-bought puff pastry into irresistible, bakery-quality treats with minimal effort. Unlike traditional yeast dough recipes that require multiple rising periods, puff pastry scrolls come together in under 30 minutes from start to finish.

Why Puff Pastry Works Perfectly for Cinnamon Scrolls

Puff pastry's unique layered structure creates an ideal foundation for cinnamon scrolls. As the pastry bakes, the thin layers of dough and butter separate, producing that signature flakiness that complements the sweet cinnamon filling. The high fat content in quality puff pastry (typically 50-60% butter) ensures rich flavor and tender texture without requiring additional ingredients.

Professional bakers appreciate puff pastry for its reliability—no unpredictable yeast fermentation means consistent results every time. This makes puff pastry cinnamon scrolls particularly valuable for beginners or when baking under time constraints. The commercial varieties available at most supermarkets have improved significantly in recent years, with many brands now using all-butter formulations that rival homemade versions.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Puff Pastry Cinnamon Scrolls

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You'll need just seven basic ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry:

Ingredient	Quantity	Key Purpose
Ready-rolled puff pastry	1 sheet (about 14 oz)	Creates flaky layers
Unsalted butter, softened	¼ cup (½ stick)	Binds filling and enhances flavor
Granulated sugar	⅓ cup	Sweetness foundation
Brown sugar, packed	⅓ cup	Rich caramel notes
Ground cinnamon	2 tablespoons	Signature spice flavor
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon	Flavor enhancement
Pinch of salt	⅛ teaspoon	Balances sweetness

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Follow these straightforward steps for flawless puff pastry cinnamon scrolls every time:

1. Prepare the pastry: Remove puff pastry from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes until pliable but still cold. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Create the filling: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, both sugars, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt. Mix until smooth and well incorporated. The mixture should be spreadable but not runny.
3. Roll and fill: Unfold pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, gently roll to a 12x16 inch rectangle, being careful not to compress the layers. Spread filling evenly over the entire surface, leaving a ½ inch border along one long edge.
4. Shape the scrolls: Starting with the long edge opposite the clean border, tightly roll the pastry into a log. Pinch the clean edge to seal. Chill in freezer for 10 minutes to firm up.
5. Cut and arrange: Using a sharp serrated knife, cut the log into 1½ inch slices. Place cut-side down on prepared baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
6. Bake to perfection: Bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown and puffed. The scrolls should feel light and airy when gently pressed.

Avoiding Common Puff Pastry Cinnamon Scroll Mistakes

Even experienced bakers encounter issues with puff pastry recipes. Here's how to prevent the most frequent problems:

• Soggy bottoms: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking. Place the baking sheet on the middle rack for even heat distribution. For extra crispness, preheat your baking sheet in the oven before adding the scrolls.
• Filling leakage: Don't overfill the pastry and make sure to leave that clean edge for sealing. Chilling the rolled log before cutting prevents the filling from oozing out during baking.
• Collapsed scrolls: Avoid opening the oven door during the first 15 minutes of baking. Puff pastry needs consistent heat to achieve maximum rise. If your scrolls deflate after removal, they likely needed 2-3 more minutes in the oven.
• Dry texture: Don't overbake—puff pastry can go from perfect to dry in minutes. Remove when golden but still slightly soft to the touch. They'll continue to set as they cool.

Delicious Variations to Try

Once you've mastered the basic recipe, experiment with these creative adaptations for different occasions:

• Cheesecake swirl: Mix 4 oz softened cream cheese with the filling ingredients for a decadent twist on classic cinnamon scrolls.
• Apple cinnamon: Add ¼ cup finely diced apple (tossed with 1 tsp lemon juice) to the filling for a seasonal variation.
• Gluten-free option: Use certified gluten-free puff pastry and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
• Mini bite-sized: Cut the rolled log into 1-inch slices for party-friendly portions that bake in 12-15 minutes.

Serving and Storage Recommendations

Puff pastry cinnamon scrolls taste best when fresh from the oven, but proper storage maintains quality:

• Immediate serving: Allow scrolls to cool for 5-7 minutes before drizzling with simple glaze (1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tbsp milk + ½ tsp vanilla). The residual heat helps the glaze set perfectly.
• Short-term storage: Keep at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat individual scrolls in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to restore freshness.
• Freezing for later: Freeze unbaked scrolls on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags. Bake from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the baking time—perfect for spontaneous breakfast cravings.

Why This Method Beats Traditional Cinnamon Rolls

While traditional yeast-raised cinnamon rolls have their place, puff pastry scrolls offer distinct advantages that make them worth keeping in your baking repertoire:

• Time efficiency: From refrigerator to oven in 20 minutes versus 3+ hours for yeast dough
• Consistent results: No variables like yeast activity or room temperature affecting outcome
• Texture contrast: Crisp, flaky exterior with tender interior creates delightful mouthfeel
• Accessibility: Uses widely available store-bought pastry with no special equipment needed
• Versatility: Works equally well for breakfast, dessert, or afternoon snack

Professional pastry chefs often keep puff pastry scrolls in their arsenal for precisely these reasons. The technique delivers impressive results with minimal effort, making it ideal for both novice bakers and experienced cooks looking for reliable, crowd-pleasing treats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen puff pastry for cinnamon scrolls?

Yes, frozen puff pastry works perfectly for cinnamon scrolls. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before use. Never thaw at room temperature as this can cause the butter layers to melt prematurely, resulting in less flaky scrolls.

Why do my puff pastry cinnamon scrolls deflate after baking?

Deflation usually occurs when scrolls are removed from the oven too early. Puff pastry needs sufficient time for the structure to set. Bake until golden brown and when gently pressed, they spring back slightly. They should feel light but not hollow. Opening the oven door too soon can also cause collapse, so avoid checking during the first 15 minutes of baking.

How can I prevent the filling from leaking out during baking?

To prevent filling leakage: 1) Don't overfill the pastry, 2) Leave a clean ½ inch border along one edge for sealing, 3) Chill the rolled log in the freezer for 10 minutes before cutting, and 4) Use a sharp serrated knife for clean cuts. The filling should be spreadable but not runny—if too soft, chill it briefly before spreading.

Can I make puff pastry cinnamon scrolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare puff pastry cinnamon scrolls ahead of time. Assemble and cut the scrolls, then place them on the baking sheet, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake straight from the refrigerator, adding 3-5 minutes to the baking time. For longer storage, freeze unbaked scrolls on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags. Bake from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the baking time.

What's the difference between puff pastry and croissant dough for cinnamon scrolls?

Puff pastry creates flakier, more delicate cinnamon scrolls with distinct layers, while croissant dough yields a richer, more bread-like texture with chewier consistency. Puff pastry contains more butter and no yeast, resulting in quicker preparation with no rising time. Croissant dough requires proofing but offers a more traditional cinnamon roll experience with yeast flavor. Puff pastry scrolls bake faster (18-22 minutes) compared to croissant dough (25-30 minutes).