Quick Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins Recipe

If you’re looking for the easiest way ever to bake up a batch of sweet, irresistible pastries that taste like a cross between a croissant and a cinnamon roll, Quick Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins are about to become your new go-to treat. These clever cruffins are flaky, buttery, and exploding with cinnamon-sugar goodness in every bite. Even better, you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen—store-bought dough means they’re genuinely quick to make, but absolutely no one will guess just how effortless they are. Whether you want to impress guests or just treat yourself to something special, this recipe is a game changer!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in these Quick Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins works overtime, creating the magical combination of crispy edges, pillowy layers, and that classic sweet spice. You’ll be amazed how a small handful of pantry staples transforms into such an impressive bakery-style treat.

• Crescent Roll Dough or Puff Pastry: The shortcut to flaky, golden perfection—either dough delivers layers and lift without any kneading or proofing.
• Butter: Melted and brushed over the dough for rich flavor and those irresistible crispy layers.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cruffins and caramelizes as they bake for a delicate crunch.
• Cinnamon: The ultimate spice for warmth and coziness in every bite.
• Vanilla Extract (optional): Adds a subtle aromatic boost that makes these even more bakery-worthy.
• Salt: Just a pinch sharpens the flavors and keeps the sweetness beautifully balanced.

How to Make Quick Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C)—you want it nice and hot to get those layers to rise. While the oven heats, grab a muffin tin and line it with paper liners or give it a light spritz of non-stick spray. Now, roll out your crescent roll dough or puff pastry on a clean surface. If you’re using crescent rolls, pinch the seams together until you have a single, smooth sheet. With puff pastry, a gentle unfold is all you need.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

Mix together the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and just a pinch of salt in a small bowl. This magical mixture is what brings that signature warmth and sweetness to your Quick Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins. Melt your butter (a few seconds in the microwave will do), and brush it evenly all over the dough. This coating helps the cinnamon sugar stick—and adds extra richness in every layer. Sprinkle your cinnamon sugar mix generously over the buttered dough until every inch is covered.

Step 3: Roll and Shape the Dough

It’s time for the fun part! Starting at one edge of the dough, roll it up tightly into a log, exactly like you’d do for a cinnamon roll. This tight roll is the secret to the gorgeous swirl inside each cruffin. Once rolled, slice the log into 12 equal pieces—use a sharp knife to make clean cuts. These slices are the future stars of your muffin pan.

Step 4: Arrange and Bake the Cruffins

Pop each coiled dough slice into your prepared muffin tin. Don’t stress if they look a bit snug—cruffins love to rise and bloom in the oven! Slide the tin onto the middle rack and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until your cruffins are gloriously golden and crisp on top. Let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes to set the layers, then transfer the Quick Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins to a wire rack to finish cooling.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your cruffins while still warm for maximum flakiness, but they’re honestly delicious at any temperature. A quick dusting of extra cinnamon sugar always takes them over the top. Pair with coffee or tea for a dreamy breakfast or a cozy afternoon treat!

How to Serve Quick Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins

Garnishes

The easiest way to elevate your Quick Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins is a final dusting of cinnamon sugar as soon as they come out of the oven. For a pretty brunch presentation, consider drizzling a quick vanilla glaze or topping with a little powdered sugar for a snowy effect.

Side Dishes

These cruffins are a showstopper on their own, but they’re also fantastic with a fruit salad, a bowl of yogurt and honey, or even some fresh berries. Their sweetness pairs beautifully with salty sides like crispy bacon or a savory omelette to balance your breakfast spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or holiday brunch, arrange the Quick Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins on a platter with bright slices of orange, edible flowers or festive napkins. You can also tuck them into bakery-style boxes as a sweet take-home treat for friends or bring them to the office to brighten everyone’s morning.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover Quick Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins (not likely!), keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The container helps prevent them from drying out and keeps that lovely softness inside.

Freezing

Want to bake ahead? Let the cruffins cool completely, then wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and pop them in a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep beautifully in the freezer for up to 2 months. When a craving strikes, you can enjoy “fresh” Quick Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins anytime!

Reheating

To revive leftover or frozen cruffins, just heat them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 7-10 minutes or until warmed through. This brings back the flaky texture and makes them taste just-baked again. For a single cruffin, a few seconds in the microwave works too, but the oven method is best for crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent roll dough?

Absolutely! Puff pastry gives the cruffins an even flakier, crispier texture, and the recipe works perfectly with either dough. Just follow the same rolling and slicing instructions for great results.

What if my dough keeps unrolling in the muffin tin?

If you find your dough slices want to come undone, simply coil them a bit tighter as you place them in the muffin cups or tuck the loose end underneath. Once they start baking, the layers will puff and stay together beautifully.

How sweet are these Quick Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins?

They’re sweet but not cloying—think of the perfect cinnamon roll level! You can always increase or decrease the amount of sugar and cinnamon to suit your personal taste.

Can I make the dough from scratch if I don’t have store-bought dough?

Yes! If you have a favorite yeasted or croissant dough recipe, feel free to use it. The Quick Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins recipe is all about simplifying the process, but homemade dough makes them extra special.

Should I eat Quick Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins warm or at room temperature?

They’re exceptionally tasty warm right out of the oven, but they stay moist and delicious even after they cool. If you want to rewarm them, just pop them in the oven or microwave briefly before serving.

Final Thoughts

If you adore effortless recipes with bakery-worthy results, Quick Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins are sure to earn a spot in your regular rotation. They’re so much fun to make (and share!), and you’ll love how they disappear in record time. Give them a try, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself craving these sweet, cinnamony layers for breakfast, dessert, or any moment in between!

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