Cinnamon Roll Mini Croissants Recipe

If you adore the comforting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls but crave a flaky, buttery texture, then you are absolutely going to fall in love with this Cinnamon Roll Mini Croissants Recipe. These delightful little pastries bring together the best of both worlds—golden croissants layered with sweet cinnamon sugar, finished with a luscious glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you’re entertaining guests, treating your family on a weekend morning, or simply indulging in a cozy snack, this recipe delivers big smiles with every flaky, melt-in-your-mouth bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these irresistible pastries, you’ll rely on a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that transform into something truly special. Each component plays a crucial role in ensuring the perfect balance of flakiness, sweetness, and that rich cinnamon flavor you crave.

• 2 puff pastry sheets (refrigerated or frozen): The flaky base that creates those signature layers and buttery texture.
• ½ cup packed brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes and moist sweetness.
• ½ cup sugar: Enhances the overall sweetness and helps in that perfect caramelization.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The aromatic spice that brings warmth and depth.
• 2 tablespoons salted butter (melted): Coats the sugar mixture to help it stick and add richness.
• 1 large egg: Used for the egg wash, giving the croissants a golden, shiny finish.
• 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream (divided): Mixed into the egg wash and glaze to create smooth, creamy textures.
• ½ cup powdered sugar: The sweet base for a glossy, irresistible glaze.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Mini Croissants Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Workspace

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lining two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This step ensures your croissants bake evenly and slide off the pan effortlessly once done. Preparing your space before you tackle the dough makes the entire process smooth and fun!

Step 2: Thaw the Puff Pastry

Whether you’re using refrigerated or frozen puff pastry, timing matters. Let refrigerated sheets sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before unfolding. If frozen, allow about 30 minutes to thaw. Handling puff pastry gently at this point ensures its delicate layers stay intact when you roll it out.

Step 3: Roll Out the Pastry

Lightly dust your cutting board with flour to prevent sticking, then unfold each sheet, rolling out into a 10- by 12-inch rectangle. Rolling the dough evenly helps create uniform croissants that bake beautifully golden and flaky every time.

Step 4: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon for that iconic warm spice blend. Stir in the melted butter until everything is evenly combined—this rich coating is what makes the filling irresistibly gooey and flavorful.

Step 5: Spread the Filling

Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over one rolled-out pastry sheet, gently pressing it with your hands to help it stick. This step layers in the delicious cinnamon-sugar hit you’re craving in every bite without overwhelming the buttery dough.

Step 6: Cut and Roll the Croissants

With the 12-inch side facing you, slice the pastry into 10 long triangles, each about 2 inches wide at the base. Starting at the wide end, roll each triangle toward the tip to form your mini croissants, placing them point-side down onto the baking sheets. Repeat with the second sheet and remaining filling. This shaping step is where your mini cinnamon rolls begin their transformation into charming croissants.

Step 7: Apply the Egg Wash

Whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of heavy cream, then brush the mixture generously over the croissants. This wash will give your pastries their stunning, glossy gold finish that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, until the croissants are puffed, oven-kissed golden brown, and smelling absolutely heavenly. Immediately transfer them to a wire rack to prevent any caramelized sugar from hardening on the baking sheets—this keeps each croissant tender and perfect.

Step 9: Whip Up the Glaze

While the croissants bake, whisk together the powdered sugar with the remaining 2 tablespoons of heavy cream until smooth and pourable. This shiny glaze adds a sweet finishing touch that melts beautifully over the warm cinnamon croissants.

Step 10: Cool, Glaze, and Enjoy

Let the croissants cool for at least 10 minutes—patience here means the glaze sets to a perfect shine without becoming runny. Drizzle the glaze over your warm mini croissants and get ready to share or savor your scrumptious creation.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Mini Croissants Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your Cinnamon Roll Mini Croissants Recipe, consider sprinkling a little extra cinnamon or a handful of chopped toasted nuts over the glaze for a crunchy contrast. Fresh berries or a few mint leaves add a pop of color and freshness that really brighten each bite.

Side Dishes

Pair these croissants with a steaming cup of coffee or spiced chai for a cozy breakfast or brunch. A side of creamy yogurt or fresh fruit salad complements the sweetness perfectly, balancing flavors and textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your croissants on a rustic wooden board or a colorful platter for eye-catching appeal at gatherings. Stack them in a tiered basket with small bowls of extra glaze or whipped cream on the side for dipping—turning snack time into a delightful experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, place your mini croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and flaky, though they are best enjoyed fresh because the layers start to soften over time.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the baked croissants in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once solid. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months—perfect for prepping ahead of special occasions or a sweet surprise any day.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or day-old croissants by warming them in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes. This brings back their crispiness and restores that fresh-from-the-oven feel. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy and less flaky.

FAQs

Can I use homemade puff pastry for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry can add an extra layer of freshness and buttery flavor. Just be sure it’s rolled out to the recommended size for best results in rolling and baking.

What if I don’t have heavy cream for the egg wash or glaze?

You can substitute whole milk or half-and-half for the heavy cream if needed, though heavy cream helps achieve a richer texture and shine.

Is there a way to make these gluten-free?

Yes, look for a gluten-free puff pastry in specialty stores and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free. The process remains the same and yields delicious results.

Can I add nuts or raisins inside the croissants?

Of course! Adding finely chopped nuts or raisins to the cinnamon sugar filling before rolling the croissants adds wonderful texture and flavor variety.

How long do these croissants last once glazed?

Once glazed, the croissants are best eaten within 24 hours for optimal texture and taste. The glaze can soften if left too long, but the flavor stays amazing.

Final Thoughts

These mini delights bring so much joy and warmth to any table, making the Cinnamon Roll Mini Croissants Recipe a must-try for anyone who loves a sweet pastry with a delightful twist. Once you take that first buttery, cinnamon-packed bite, I guarantee this recipe will become a cherished favorite you’ll want to make again and again. Go ahead, bake a batch, and enjoy the smiles that follow!

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