If you love cinnamon rolls but dread the long wait for dough to rise, making cinnamon rolls out of biscuits is your new best friend. This clever shortcut uses refrigerated biscuit dough to whip up warm, gooey cinnamon rolls in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re craving a quick breakfast treat or a sweet snack, biscuit cinnamon rolls deliver all the flavor and comfort without the fuss. Here’s how you can make these irresistible rolls at home with simple ingredients and easy steps.
Why Use Biscuits for Cinnamon Rolls?
Traditional cinnamon rolls require yeast dough that needs time to rise and proof, which can take hours. Using canned or refrigerated biscuit dough cuts down prep time dramatically because the dough is already made and ready to bake. Plus, biscuit dough is soft and flaky, making for tender, fluffy cinnamon rolls that taste homemade.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Refrigerated biscuit dough (such as Pillsbury Grands or any brand you prefer)
– Butter (melted or softened)
– Brown sugar (light or dark, packed)
– Ground cinnamon
– Powdered sugar (for the glaze)
– Milk (for the glaze)
– Vanilla extract (optional, for glaze)
– Optional add-ins: chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts), raisins, or chocolate chips for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cinnamon Rolls from Biscuits
1. Prepare Your Dough
Start by opening your tube or can of refrigerated biscuits. Separate the biscuits and let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly, which makes rolling easier.
2. Roll Out the Biscuits
Place the biscuits close together on a piece of parchment paper or a floured surface. Use a rolling pin to press and roll them out into a rough rectangle shape. It doesn’t have to be perfect—just flatten the dough enough to spread the filling.
3. Add the Cinnamon Sugar Filling
Brush the rolled-out dough with melted or softened butter. Then sprinkle a generous layer of cinnamon mixed with brown sugar evenly over the buttered dough. For an extra crunch and flavor, sprinkle chopped nuts or raisins if you like.
4. Roll and Slice
Starting from one of the long edges, carefully roll the dough into a tight cylinder. Pinch the seam to seal it so the filling doesn’t leak out during baking. Use a sharp serrated knife to cut the roll into 1 to 1.5-inch slices.
5. Arrange and Bake
Place the cinnamon roll slices in a greased baking dish or a muffin tin, spacing them slightly apart or close together depending on your preference for soft edges. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Make the Glaze
While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Adjust the milk to get your desired consistency.
7. Drizzle and Serve
Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the glaze generously over the top. Serve warm for the best gooey, sweet experience.
Tips for Perfect Biscuit Cinnamon Rolls
– Don’t over-roll the dough: Biscuit dough is delicate, so roll gently to avoid tearing.
– Use a serrated knife: It helps make clean cuts without squishing the rolls.
– Customize your filling: Add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips to make them your own.
– Serve fresh: These rolls are best eaten warm but can be reheated in the microwave for a quick treat later.
– Try bite-sized versions: Cut biscuits into pieces, coat them in cinnamon sugar, and bake in a pan for fun cinnamon roll bites.
Variations to Try
– Cinnamon Roll Bites: Cut biscuits into quarters, dip in melted butter, roll in cinnamon sugar, and bake in a pan. Drizzle with glaze for a finger-food version.
– Nutty Cinnamon Rolls: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a crunchy texture.
– Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Rolls: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the buttered dough before rolling.
– Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap the glaze for a whipped cream cheese frosting for a richer topping.
Making cinnamon rolls from biscuits is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic treat without the wait. This method is perfect for busy mornings, last-minute guests, or anytime you want a warm, sweet indulgence with minimal effort. So grab a can of biscuits, gather your cinnamon and sugar, and get ready to bake up some smiles!
Enjoy your quick and delicious homemade cinnamon rolls made from biscuits!