Description
Mini Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Ingredients:
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Brush the puff pastry sheet with melted butter.
3. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the pastry.
4. Roll the pastry tightly and cut into small pieces.
5. Arrange on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
6. Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make icing. Drizzle over the warm rolls.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect mini cinnamon rolls every time. First, ensure your puff pastry is fully thawed but still cold. On a lightly floured surface, gently unfold the sheet. Using a pastry brush, apply the melted butter in a thin, even layer, leaving a small border at one long edge to help seal the roll. In a small bowl, thoroughly combine the brown sugar and cinnamon to prevent clumps. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered surface.
Starting from the long edge opposite the clean border, roll the pastry into a tight log, applying gentle pressure. Seal the roll by pressing the clean edge onto the log. Use a sharp serrated knife to slice the log into 12 equal pieces. For clean cuts, wipe the knife between slices. Place the rolls cut-side up on your prepared baking tray, leaving about an inch of space for expansion.
Serving Suggestions
These mini cinnamon rolls are incredibly versatile. Serve them warm from the oven with the icing drizzled on top for a classic treat. For a brunch spread, pair them with fresh fruit and coffee. They also make a delightful dessert when served à la mode with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a festive touch, add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a dash of orange zest to the icing.
How-to Summary
Thaw pastry, butter, and sprinkle with a cinnamon-sugar mix. Roll tightly into a log, slice into pieces, and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes. Finish with a simple vanilla icing drizzle while warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the rolls, cover the tray tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake directly from the fridge, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
My pastry is tearing. What did I do wrong? This usually means the pastry became too warm or was over-handled. Ensure it’s cold, work quickly, and use a light touch when rolling.
Can I use a different type of sugar? Brown sugar is recommended for its moisture and molasses flavor. Granulated white sugar can be used in a pinch, but the filling will be less rich and gooey.
Why are my rolls not rising much? Puff pastry rises vertically in layers. Ensure your knife is sharp for clean cuts, and avoid placing rolls too close together on the tray, which can cause them to rise sideways.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in the oven or toaster oven to restore crispness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using warm or over-worked puff pastry, which prevents proper rising.
- Sprinkling the cinnamon-sugar unevenly, leading to inconsistent flavor.
- Rolling the log too loosely, causing uncoiled rolls during baking.
- Using a dull knife to slice, which squashes the log instead of cutting cleanly.
- Over-baking, which makes the pastry dry instead of flaky and golden.
Conclusion
These mini cinnamon rolls are a testament to how a few simple, quality ingredients can create an impressive and delicious pastry. The combination of flaky, buttery layers, sweet cinnamon filling, and creamy icing is irresistible. This recipe proves that you don’t need to be a professional baker to create a beautiful homemade treat perfect for any occasion. Mastering this quick method will give you a reliable, crowd-pleasing recipe for years to come.