Name: Pie Crust Cinnamon Rolls: A Delicious & Easy Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 180 min
Yield: 18-24 rolls
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, very cold and cut into ½-inch cubes; ½ cup ice water, plus more if needed; ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional); Pinch of salt; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream, to adjust consistency

Pie Crust Cinnamon Rolls: Prepare to be amazed by this delightful twist on a classic breakfast treat! Imagine the flaky, buttery goodness of a homemade pie crust combined with the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls. It's a match made in pastry heaven, and I'm so excited to share this recipe with you.

While cinnamon rolls have a rich history rooted in Swedish and German baking traditions, this particular variation, using pie crust, is a more modern and ingenious adaptation. It cleverly utilizes leftover pie crust, transforming what might otherwise be scraps into a delectable and satisfying treat. Think of it as a resourceful and delicious way to minimize food waste!

What makes these Pie Crust Cinnamon Rolls so irresistible? It's the unique texture! The pie crust creates a wonderfully flaky and slightly crisp exterior, contrasting beautifully with the soft, gooey cinnamon-sugar filling. They are incredibly easy to make, especially if you already have pie crust on hand (store-bought works perfectly too!). The combination of convenience and incredible flavor makes them a winner for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet afternoon snack. The warm spices and buttery notes are simply irresistible, and I guarantee they'll disappear quickly!

Ingredients:

For the Pie Crust:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, very cold and cut into ½-inch cubes
½ cup ice water, plus more if needed

For the Cinnamon Roll Filling:

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, but adds a lovely warmth)
Pinch of salt

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

4 ounces cream cheese, softened
¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream, to adjust consistency

Making the Pie Crust:

Okay, let's start with the pie crust. Don't be intimidated! It's easier than you think, and the flaky texture is what makes these cinnamon rolls truly special.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. This ensures the salt is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender (or your fingertips, if you're feeling brave!), cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You should still see some small pieces of butter – these are what create those lovely flaky layers. The key here is to work quickly so the butter doesn't melt. If your hands are warm, you can chill the bowl and butter for a few minutes before starting.
Add the Ice Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently after each addition. The dough should start to come together, but it shouldn't be too wet or sticky. You might not need all the water, so add it slowly until the dough just holds together.
Form the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently gather it into a ball. Don't overwork the dough! The less you handle it, the flakier it will be.
Divide and Chill: Divide the dough in half. Flatten each half into a disc, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time is crucial for relaxing the gluten and allowing the butter to firm up, which will result in a tender, flaky crust.

Preparing the Cinnamon Roll Filling:

While the pie crust is chilling, let's get the filling ready. This is where the magic happens – that warm, gooey, cinnamon-y goodness that makes cinnamon rolls so irresistible.

Combine Filling Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt. Mix well until everything is evenly combined and forms a smooth paste. Make sure your butter is truly softened, but not melted, for the best consistency.

Assembling and Baking the Cinnamon Rolls:

Now for the fun part! Rolling, filling, and baking these beauties. Get ready for your kitchen to smell amazing!

Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one of the chilled pie crust discs into a rectangle approximately 12x18 inches. Try to keep the rectangle as even as possible for uniform rolls.
Spread the Filling: Spread half of the cinnamon filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border along one of the long edges. This border will help seal the roll.
Roll Up the Dough: Starting from the opposite long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it closed.
Slice the Rolls: Using a sharp, serrated knife or unflavored dental floss, slice the log into 1-inch thick rolls. Dental floss creates a cleaner cut than a knife, preventing the rolls from getting squished.
Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the sliced rolls in a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking dish. You can arrange them close together, as they will expand during baking.
Repeat with Remaining Dough: Repeat steps 1-5 with the remaining pie crust disc and cinnamon filling.
Let Rise (Optional): For extra fluffy rolls, you can cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and let the rolls rise in a warm place for about 30-45 minutes. This step is optional, but it will result in a lighter, airier texture.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The center rolls should be set and not doughy.
Cool Slightly: Let the cinnamon rolls cool in the baking dish for about 10-15 minutes before frosting. This allows them to firm up slightly, making them easier to handle.

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting:

No cinnamon roll is complete without a generous slathering of cream cheese frosting! This tangy, sweet frosting perfectly complements the warm, spiced rolls.

Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Make sure both are at room temperature to avoid lumps.
Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating on low speed until combined. Sifting the powdered sugar helps prevent lumps in the frosting.
Add Vanilla and Milk: Stir in the vanilla extract. Then, add the milk or heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. You want it to be thick enough to spread easily but thin enough to be smooth and creamy.

Frosting and Serving:

The final touch! Get ready to enjoy the fruits (or rather, rolls) of your labor.

Frost the Rolls: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the warm cinnamon rolls. Don't be shy – the more frosting, the better!
Serve: Serve the cinnamon rolls warm and enjoy! These are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If refrigerating, warm them up slightly before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Pie Crust Cinnamon Rolls are truly a revelation, a delightful twist on a classic that I wholeheartedly believe you need to experience. Why? Because they're incredibly easy to make, surprisingly delicious, and offer a unique texture that sets them apart from your average cinnamon roll. The flaky, buttery pie crust creates a delightful contrast to the warm, gooey cinnamon filling, resulting in a treat that's both comforting and exciting. Forget spending hours kneading dough – this recipe is all about maximizing flavor with minimal effort, making it perfect for a weekend brunch, a holiday gathering, or simply a spontaneous craving. But the best part? The versatility! While I've shared my go-to recipe, feel free to get creative and personalize these rolls to your liking. For a richer, more decadent experience, try adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon sugar mixture. A sprinkle of sea salt before baking can also elevate the flavors beautifully. If you're feeling adventurous, consider incorporating other spices like cardamom or nutmeg for a warmer, more complex flavor profile. Serving Suggestions: These Pie Crust Cinnamon Rolls are fantastic on their own, warm from the oven. However, a simple glaze can take them to the next level. A classic cream cheese frosting is always a winner, but a simple powdered sugar glaze with a hint of vanilla or lemon zest is equally delicious and less time-consuming. For a truly indulgent experience, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair perfectly with a cup of hot coffee or tea, making them the ideal treat for a cozy morning. Variations to Explore: * Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls: Add diced apples to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a fall-inspired treat. * Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Rolls: Sprinkle chocolate chips over the dough before rolling it up for a chocolatey twist. * Savory Cinnamon Rolls: For a savory option, replace the cinnamon sugar with a mixture of grated cheese, herbs, and garlic. * Mini Cinnamon Rolls: Cut the rolled dough into smaller pieces for bite-sized treats. I'm genuinely excited for you to try this recipe and discover the magic of Pie Crust Cinnamon Rolls for yourself. It's a game-changer, I promise! Don't be intimidated by the idea of working with pie crust – it's much easier than you think, and the results are well worth the effort. So, go ahead, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to be amazed. And most importantly, don't forget to share your creations with me! I'd love to see your photos and hear about your experiences. Tag me on social media or leave a comment below – I can't wait to see what you come up with! Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite of these incredible Pie Crust Cinnamon Rolls! I am sure you will love them as much as I do. Let me know if you have any questions, and I will be happy to help.