Cinnamon Swirl

Prep: 30 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A sweet cinnamon swirl pastry featuring soft dough, coated with cinnamon sugar and butter, perfect for breakfast or a cozy dessert with optional icing topping.

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Ingredients

  • refrigerator dough
  • 1 Tbsp. soft butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp. cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Use about one-third of refrigerator dough.
  2. Roll out the dough into a 12 x 7-inch oblong shape.
  3. Spread the surface with melted butter using a pastry brush.
  4. Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon evenly over the buttered surface.
  5. Roll up the dough as for cinnamon rolls.
  6. Cut the rolled-up dough into 12 slices.
  7. Place the slices with a little space between them in a greased 9-inch round pan.
  8. Cover and let rise until light, about 25 to 35 minutes.
  9. Bake until golden brown, then remove from the pan.
  10. If desired, top with icing before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you don't have refrigerator dough, you can substitute with homemade or store-bought pizza dough. Make sure the butter is evenly spread for a consistent taste, and let the dough rest in a warm place for optimal rising. This recipe is also adaptable to other flavors like nut butter or fruit preserves.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the cinnamon swirl warm for the best taste, and consider drizzling with icing made from powdered sugar and milk for added sweetness. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a delightful breakfast, serve alongside fresh fruit or yogurt. This treat can also be enjoyed as a dessert or snack throughout the day.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover cinnamon swirl in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, pop slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in a toaster oven for a few minutes until heated through. This helps maintain their soft texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Cinnamon Swirl contains roughly 14 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.

14 kcal 1% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.2g
Total Fat 0.8g 1% DV
Carbs 1.8g 1% DV
Fiber 0.2g 1% DV
Sugar 0.3g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 4.3mg
Potassium 13.6mg
Cholesterol 1.3mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin C 1.8mg 2% DV
Calcium 3.5mg
Iron 0.1mg
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and roll it up the night before. Place the sliced rolls in the greased pan, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them rise for about 30 minutes before baking. This is an excellent option for busy mornings and ensures fresh cinnamon rolls without the hassle.

What type of dough works best for this recipe?

Refrigerator dough is ideal for this cinnamon swirl, as it is easy to work with and yields a soft texture. However, you can also use biscuit dough or even homemade bread dough if you prefer. Just ensure the dough is pliable enough to roll without tearing.

Can I freeze cinnamon swirl leftovers?

Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, you can freeze the cinnamon swirl slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven or microwave for the best results.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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