Soft Fluffy Cinnamon Crescent Rolls

Soft, golden crescent rolls with cinnamon swirls deliver a warm, tender, buttery breakfast treat perfect for cozy mornings. These crescent rolls strike the ideal balance between soft texture and rich cinnamon flavor, making them a delightful addition to any weekend brunch or holiday breakfast.

I first made these for a chilly Sunday morning, and they quickly became a family favorite, requested again and again for weekend treats.

Ingredients

• Active dry yeast: 1 packet provides the essential lift and airy texture make sure it is fresh and not expired
• Warm milk: about 110 degrees Fahrenheit or 43 degrees Celsius to activate the yeast without killing it
• Granulated sugar: helps feed the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness
• Unsalted butter: softened for richness and a tender crumb in the dough
• Salt: enhances the overall flavor and balances sweetness
• Large egg: room temperature binds ingredients and contributes to softness
• All-purpose flour: plus extra for kneading forms the dough’s structure choose unbleached flour for better texture
• Brown sugar: combines with cinnamon for the swirl adding deep caramel notes
• Ground cinnamon: is the aromatic star fresh ground or high-quality cinnamon will give the best flavor
• Melted butter: for brushing the dough enhances flakiness and golden color
• Optional powdered sugar glaze: made from powdered sugar and a little milk adds sweetness and finishes the rolls beautifully

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sponge the yeast:

In a small bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.

Mix the dough base:

In a separate mixing bowl, combine the remaining sugar, softened butter, salt, and egg. Stir or beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Combine wet ingredients:

Add the foamy yeast mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, stirring thoroughly to blend the liquids.

Add flour gradually:

Incorporate the flour one portion at a time, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Avoid adding too much flour to keep the dough tender.

Knead the dough:

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes. You want a smooth, elastic dough that springs back when pressed.

First rise:

Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it. Leave it in a warm spot for 1 to 1 ½ hours until it doubles in size, signaling it’s ready.

Prepare oven and baking sheet:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Shape the dough:

Roll the dough out into a 12 by 9 inch rectangle. Use a brush to coat the surface evenly with melted butter.

Add cinnamon sugar:

Mix brown sugar and cinnamon together. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough to create the signature swirl.

Cut and roll:

Cut the dough into triangles. Starting from the wide end, roll each piece tightly toward the tip to form crescent shapes.

Second rise:

Place the rolled crescents spaced apart on the baking sheet, curve them slightly, and let rise 15 to 20 minutes until puffy.

Final butter brush and bake:

Brush the tops with more melted butter, then bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the rolls turn a beautiful golden brown.

Optional glazing:

Once slightly cooled, drizzle the powdered sugar glaze over the crescents for an extra touch of sweetness and shine.

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Storage Tips

Store crescents in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain softness. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped and thaw at room temperature before reheating gently in the oven to revive their fresh-baked texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap brown sugar with coconut sugar for a milder caramel flavor and a hint of earthiness. If you want dairy-free, use a plant-based butter and milk substitute but ensure the milk substitute is warm and unsweetened for the best yeast activation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cinnamon crescent rolls with a cup of hot coffee, spiced chai, or a glass of cold milk. They pair wonderfully with fresh fruit or a spread of cream cheese for a more indulgent breakfast. Adding a side of scrambled eggs or bacon turns this treat into a complete meal.

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Cultural Context

Crescent rolls have a rich tradition rooted in European baking, especially French and Austrian influences, symbolizing celebration and comfort. Cinnamon has been treasured for centuries in baking for its warm, sweet aroma and flavor, making these rolls a festive staple in many households across America.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I ensure the dough rises properly?

Use warm milk (not hot) to activate the yeast and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot until doubled in size for a light, airy texture.

→ Can I substitute brown sugar in the filling?

Yes, coconut sugar works well as a substitute, offering a subtle variation in sweetness and flavor.

→ What is the purpose of brushing melted butter?

Brushing melted butter adds richness, a golden finish, and helps the cinnamon sugar adhere to the dough.

→ How should the dough feel after kneading?

The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but manageable, which ensures tender layers after baking.

→ Can I make smaller crescent rolls?

Absolutely, cutting the dough into smaller triangles allows for bite-sized servings, perfect for sharing or snacks.