Pie Crust Cinnamon Rolls – A Sweet Shortcut to Comfort
Craving cinnamon rolls but short on time (and patience)? These Pie Crust Cinnamon Rolls are your new best friend. With flaky, buttery layers and a warm cinnamon-sugar swirl, they deliver all the cozy cinnamon roll vibes—without the yeast, rising, or hours of waiting.
All you need are refrigerated pie crusts, a few pantry staples, and about 30 minutes start to finish. Whether it’s for a weekend breakfast, a quick dessert, or a fun baking project with kids, these mini rolls hit the sweet spot—fast.
Why I Love This Recipe
No rising, no fuss, and no mixer needed. These cinnamon roll bites are a hack that tastes like you spent way more time than you did. The pie crust crisps up with buttery, sugary cinnamon layers inside, and the glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness.
They’re perfect for a brunch spread or to wrap up and give as gifts. Plus, they’re just adorable.
Ingredients
For the Rolls:
- 2 refrigerated pie crusts (thawed)
- 4 tbsp salted butter, melted
- 6 tbsp light brown sugar, packed
- 1½ tsp ground cinnamon
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp milk
Ingredient Notes & Tips
- Pie Crusts: Store-bought works great here, but homemade crusts also shine if you’ve got them.
- Butter: Salted butter balances the sweet cinnamon. You can use unsalted and add a pinch of salt.
- Add-ins: Try a pinch of nutmeg or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for a twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Dough
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Unroll a pie crust on a clean surface.
- Brush with half the melted butter.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the crust, leaving a ½-inch border.
Step 2: Roll & Slice
- Tightly roll the crust starting from the end closest to you.
- Press the seam to seal the roll.
- Cut into ½-inch slices. Discard the uneven ends if needed.
Step 3: Bake
- Place rolls cut-side up on the sheet pan.
- Bake for 17–20 minutes until golden.
- Cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Repeat with second crust.
Step 4: Glaze
- In a bowl, whisk powdered sugar with 1½ tbsp milk. Add more milk to reach a thick, pourable consistency.
- Drizzle over cooled rolls using a fork or spoon.
- Let the glaze set, or serve immediately for gooey goodness.
Tips for Success
- Let the pie crusts come to room temp before unrolling—they’ll be less likely to crack.
- Use a sharp knife or serrated blade for clean cuts.
- Bake on the middle rack for even browning.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Pair these flaky cinnamon roll bites with:
- Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups for a festive treat board
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites for a variety of minis
- Brownie Batter Dip as a sweet dipping side
- No-Bake Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars for a chewy contrast
- Snow Globe Cookies for holiday cheer
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temp for 2–3 days.
- Reheat: Warm for 10 seconds in the microwave for gooey goodness.
- Freeze: Freeze baked (unglazed) rolls in a zip-top bag. Glaze after thawing.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites
- Brownie Batter Dip
- Snow Globe Cookies
- No-Bake Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars
Final Thoughts
These Pie Crust Cinnamon Rolls are proof that dessert doesn’t have to be complicated to be downright delicious. They’re buttery, cinnamon-sweet, and irresistibly crisp around the edges—a bite-sized indulgence that brings big joy.
Try them once, and you’ll be finding excuses to make them again and again. Tag @chefmaniac when you do—we’d love to see your creations!
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