Cinnamon Roll Mini Croissants Recipe

If you have a soft spot for buttery, flaky pastries filled with sweet cinnamon goodness, you are going to absolutely adore this Cinnamon Roll Mini Croissants Recipe. It takes the classic charm of cinnamon rolls and gives it a fun, flaky twist by using puff pastry rolled into perfect little croissants. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of crisp, golden layers with a sweet cinnamon-sugar center, finished off with a luscious glaze that sends the indulgence over the top. These mini treats are perfect for brunch, a cozy breakfast, or anytime you want to bring a little magic to your kitchen table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to achieving those irresistibly flaky, sweet croissants. Each simple ingredient plays an essential role, from the buttery richness of puff pastry to the warm sweetness of cinnamon and sugar, creating a perfect harmony of flavor and texture.

• 2 puff pastry sheets (refrigerated or frozen): The flaky and buttery base that forms those iconic croissant layers, making prep easy and foolproof.
• ½ cup packed brown sugar: Adds deep, molasses-like sweetness and moisture to the filling.
• ½ cup sugar: Balances the brown sugar with classic sweet crunch and caramelizes beautifully as it bakes.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The warm spice essential for that unmistakable cinnamon roll flavor.
• 2 tablespoons salted butter (melted): Helps bind the filling ingredients and enhances the richness of each bite.
• 1 large egg: Used to make a shiny, golden egg wash for that beautiful baked finish.
• 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream (divided): Makes the egg wash silky smooth and is combined with powdered sugar to create a luscious glaze.
• ½ cup powdered sugar: The sweet base for the glaze that adds a classic, light finishing touch.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Mini Croissants Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and prepare baking sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lining two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This step ensures your mini croissants bake evenly and come off cleanly without sticking.

Step 2: Thaw puff pastry

If you’re using refrigerated puff pastry, let it relax at room temperature for about 5 minutes before unfolding. For frozen sheets, allow approximately 30 minutes to thaw—this makes the dough easier to handle and roll out perfectly.

Step 3: Roll out puff pastry sheets

Lightly dust your cutting board with flour to prevent sticking, then unfold each puff pastry sheet. Roll each into a 10 by 12-inch rectangle to create an even surface perfect for the filling and cutting into triangles later.

Step 4: Mix cinnamon sugar filling

Combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Pour in the melted butter and mix well until the ingredients fuse into a perfectly aromatic and sticky filling ready to spread.

Step 5: Fill the puff pastry

Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over one of the rolled puff pastry sheets. Gently press it into the dough to help it adhere and distribute flavors evenly with every bite.

Step 6: Cut into triangles and roll

With the 12-inch side facing you, cut the pastry into 10 long triangles. Each triangle should have a 2-inch wide base narrowing to a point. Roll each up tightly from the wide end toward the tip to form miniature croissants. Place them point-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them with room to puff. Repeat the process with the second sheet and remaining filling.

Step 7: Apply egg wash

Whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon heavy cream to create a shiny egg wash. Brush this over the visible surfaces of your croissants to help them bake to a gorgeous golden brown with a subtle sheen.

Step 8: Bake until golden and puffed

Bake your croissants for 18 to 20 minutes until they’re beautifully puffed and golden brown. Transfer them immediately to a wire rack to cool slightly, making sure any melted sugar doesn’t harden onto the pan.

Step 9: Make the glaze

While the croissants bake, mix the powdered sugar with the remaining 2 tablespoons of heavy cream until smooth. This glaze is the final touch that elevates your Cinnamon Roll Mini Croissants Recipe from simple good to purely irresistible.

Step 10: Drizzle and serve

Allow your warm croissants to cool for at least 10 minutes before drizzling the glaze generously over them. The glaze will softly set, adding sweet, creamy notes to every flaky bite.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Mini Croissants Recipe

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top for an extra touch of texture and flavor. A small handful of fresh berries on the side can add a lovely tart contrast to the sweet glaze.

Side Dishes

These mini croissants are perfect paired with a steaming cup of coffee or tea, making them ideal for breakfast or brunch. For a heartier option, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad for a balanced plate bursting with flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Cinnamon Roll Mini Croissants Recipe in a beautiful basket lined with a linen napkin for a charming brunch display. You could also skewer a few together with some fresh berries and mint leaves for a fun finger-food twist at a gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They maintain their delightful flakiness best when eaten sooner rather than later, but reheating brings them back nicely.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked croissants by preparing and rolling them per the recipe, placing them on a baking sheet, and freezing until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes. Baked croissants can also be frozen but may lose some crispness.

Reheating

Warm leftover or frozen baked croissants in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes to recapture their flaky texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as that can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought puff pastry for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought puff pastry is perfect for this Cinnamon Roll Mini Croissants Recipe and makes the process quick and easy. Just be sure to thaw and roll it out properly for best results.

Can these be made dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use a non-dairy cream to make the glaze and egg wash. The croissants may differ slightly in texture but still taste wonderful.

How can I make these ahead for a party?

Prepare the croissants up through rolling and brushing with egg wash, then freeze on baking sheets. When ready, bake straight from frozen with a few extra minutes added to bake time.

Are these croissants very sweet?

They have a lovely balance of sweetness from the cinnamon sugar and glaze without being overpowering. You can adjust the amount of glaze if you prefer them less sweet.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the filling?

Definitely! Chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips can be sprinkled over the cinnamon sugar before rolling for extra texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a new twist on a classic pastry, this Cinnamon Roll Mini Croissants Recipe promises to wow your taste buds and your guests. It’s simple enough for a weekday treat but special enough for weekend brunch or celebrations. Trust me, once you bite into these flaky, cinnamon-kissed beauties, you’ll keep coming back to this recipe again and again. So go ahead, treat yourself—you deserve it!

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