Croissant Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful fusion of flaky croissant dough and sweet cinnamon roll filling, topped with a creamy glaze. These rolls offer a buttery, flaky texture with a warm cinnamon-sugar filling, making them perfect for breakfast or brunch!

Ingredients

For the Croissant Dough:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 large egg

For the Butter Layer:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into small pieces)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for rolling)

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Timing

Making Croissant Cinnamon Rolls takes about 30 minutes for preparation, 1 hour for rising, and 20-25 minutes for baking.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Croissant Dough

1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the melted butter, egg, and the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead: Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter Layer

1. Make Butter Block: On a sheet of parchment paper, place the cold butter pieces and sprinkle with flour. Use a rolling pin to flatten the butter into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Chill in the refrigerator while the dough rises.

Step 3: Incorporate the Butter

1. Roll Out Dough: Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches).
2. Add Butter: Place the chilled butter block in the center of the dough. Fold the edges of the dough over the butter, sealing it completely.
3. Roll and Fold: Roll the dough out to a rectangle again. Fold it into thirds like a letter (this is called a “turn”). Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Repeat the rolling and folding process two more times, chilling for 30 minutes between each turn.

Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

1. Mix Filling: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 5: Assemble the Rolls

1. Roll Out Dough: After the final chill, roll the dough into a large rectangle (about 12×24 inches).
2. Spread Butter: Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top.
3. Roll Up: Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
4. Slice Rolls: Cut the log into 12 equal slices and place them in a greased baking dish.

Step 6: Bake the Rolls

1. Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for about 30 minutes until puffy.
2. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Bake: Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

1. Mix Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 8: Serve

1. Glaze Rolls: Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before drizzling the glaze over the top.
2. Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy the delightful combination of flaky, buttery croissant dough with sweet cinnamon filling!

Step 9: Dig In

1. Savor the Flavor: Indulge in the delicious layers of buttery goodness and cinnamon sweetness!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Croissant Cinnamon Rolls (per roll, based on 12 rolls):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	300
Protein	4g
Fat	15g
Carbohydrates	39g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	10g

Tips for Customization

• Nut Additions: Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the filling for added crunch.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different spices, like nutmeg or cardamom, in the filling for unique flavors.
• Frosting Alternatives: Use cream cheese frosting instead of a glaze for a richer taste.

Conclusion

Croissant Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful and indulgent treat that combines the flaky texture of croissants with the sweet flavors of cinnamon rolls. Perfect for brunch or as a special dessert, these rolls are sure to impress family and friends! Enjoy this delightful recipe!