Pie Crust Cinnamon Rolls are a quick and delicious way to turn leftover pie dough into a sweet, flaky treat! With buttery, cinnamon-sugar-filled layers and a golden, crispy texture, these bite-sized cinnamon rolls are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a simple snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Great Use for Leftover Pie Dough: No waste, just a tasty treat!
- Quick & Easy: No yeast or rising time—just roll, bake, and enjoy.
- Flaky & Buttery: Like a mix between a cinnamon roll and a pastry.
- Customizable: Add nuts, icing, or even a fruit filling.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: A great addition to breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cinnamon Rolls:
- Pie crust dough (homemade or store-bought)
- Unsalted butter (melted)
- Brown sugar
- Granulated sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Vanilla extract (optional)
For the Glaze (Optional):
- Powdered sugar
- Milk or cream
- Vanilla extract
Directions
Step 1: Roll Out the Pie Dough
- Preheat Oven:
- Set to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll Out Dough:
- On a floured surface, roll out the pie crust into a rectangle (about â…›-inch thick).
Step 2: Add the Cinnamon Filling
- Brush with Butter:
- Spread melted butter evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle Sugar & Cinnamon:
- Mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Sprinkle evenly over the buttered dough.
Step 3: Roll & Slice
- Roll the Dough:
- Start from the long edge and roll tightly into a log.
- Slice the Rolls:
- Cut into ½-inch slices and place on the lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake for 15-18 Minutes:
- Until golden brown and flaky.
- Cool Slightly:
- Let sit for 5 minutes before adding glaze.
Step 5: Make the Glaze (Optional)
- Mix Glaze Ingredients:
- Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drizzle Over Rolls:
- Drizzle warm rolls with glaze before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12-16 mini rolls
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Baking Time: 15-18 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Variations
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts inside.
- Caramelized Sugar: Brush with extra butter and sprinkle sugar on top before baking.
- Chocolate Swirl: Add mini chocolate chips inside.
- Spiced Up: Mix in nutmeg or pumpkin spice with the cinnamon sugar.
- Fruit-Filled: Spread a thin layer of jam before rolling.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for 5 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked rolls and bake fresh when needed.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes! It’s a great shortcut and works just as well.
How do I make these extra crispy?
Bake a little longer or brush with extra butter before baking.
Can I add icing instead of a glaze?
Yes! A cream cheese frosting works beautifully.
Can I use puff pastry instead of pie crust?
Yes! Puff pastry will create a flakier, lighter roll.
What’s the best way to keep them fresh?
Store in an airtight container and reheat before serving.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and refrigerate before baking, then bake fresh when needed.
What pairs well with these cinnamon rolls?
A hot cup of coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Can I make them bigger?
Yes! Cut thicker slices and adjust the baking time as needed.
How do I prevent the rolls from unrolling while baking?
Chill the rolled dough for 10-15 minutes before slicing and baking.
Can I use different sugars?
Yes! Try coconut sugar or maple sugar for a unique twist.
Conclusion
Pie Crust Cinnamon Rolls are an easy, flaky, and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of cinnamon rolls without the hassle of yeast dough. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these mini rolls are sure to impress. Try them today and enjoy a buttery, cinnamon-sugar treat in no time!
PrintPie Crust Cinnamon Rolls
These Pie Crust Cinnamon Rolls are an easy, crispy, buttery twist on traditional cinnamon rolls! Made with leftover pie dough, they’re filled with buttery cinnamon sugar and baked until golden brown. Perfect as a quick snack, dessert, or alongside a cup of coffee!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12–15 mini rolls 1x
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Cinnamon Rolls:
- 1 prepared pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)
For the Glaze (Optional but Delicious!):
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp milk or cream
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Dough:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pie crust on a lightly floured surface into a thin rectangle.
2. Make the Cinnamon Filling:
- Brush melted butter over the entire pie crust.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly over the buttered pie crust.
3. Roll & Slice:
- Roll the pie crust tightly into a log from the long edge.
- Slice into 1/2-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife.
4. Bake Until Golden Brown:
- Place rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until lightly golden and crisp.
5. Make the Glaze & Drizzle (Optional):
- Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drizzle over warm cinnamon rolls before serving.
Notes
- No pie dough? Use store-bought refrigerated pie crust for a quick fix.
- Make them extra crispy! Sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking.
- Add-ins: Try adding chopped pecans, raisins, or mini chocolate chips before rolling.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.