Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Filling and Coating

01 - Softened cream cheese (227g)
02 - Granulated sugar (50g)
03 - Vanilla extract (5ml)
04 - Ground cinnamon (2.5ml)
05 - Melted unsalted butter (113g)
06 - Granulated sugar for coating (100g)
07 - Ground cinnamon for coating (15ml)

→ Dough (Choose One)

08 - Refrigerated crescent roll dough (227g) or puff pastry sheet (227g)

→ Homemade Dough (Alternative)

09 - Active dry yeast (7g)
10 - Warm milk (120ml, 43°C)
11 - Granulated sugar (25g)
12 - All-purpose flour (300g)
13 - Salt (2.5g)
14 - Large egg
15 - Softened unsalted butter (45g)

# Instructions:

01 - In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 50g granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and 2.5ml ground cinnamon. Beat until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, then set aside.
02 - If utilizing refrigerated crescent roll dough or puff pastry, unroll it onto a clean surface. For crescent dough supplied as triangles, firmly pinch the edges together to create small rectangles, facilitating easier filling.
03 - For homemade dough, first combine the warm milk, yeast, and 25g granulated sugar. Allow this mixture to rest for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. Subsequently, incorporate the all-purpose flour, salt, egg, and softened butter. Mix thoroughly to achieve a soft dough. Knead the dough for 5 to 7 minutes until it develops a smooth consistency. Permit the dough to rise in a warm environment for 1 hour, or until its volume has visibly doubled. Once risen, roll the dough into a large rectangular shape and cut it into individual squares.
04 - Carefully place approximately 5ml to 10ml (1-2 teaspoons) of the prepared cream cheese filling into the center of each individual dough piece.
05 - Gently fold the dough over the filling and shape it into a compact ball or log. Ensure all edges are pinched tightly and sealed completely to encapsulate the filling within the dough, preventing any leakage during the cooking process.
06 - Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Arrange the assembled rolls uniformly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the rolls achieve a golden brown hue and are cooked through.
07 - As an alternative cooking method, preheat an air fryer to 175°C (350°F). Place the rolls in a single layer within the air fryer basket, ensuring adequate space between each to allow for even cooking. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, monitoring closely for a golden appearance and desired doneness.
08 - While the rolls are still warm from baking, generously brush them with the melted butter. In a separate shallow dish, combine the 100g granulated sugar with 15ml ground cinnamon. Carefully toss the buttered rolls in this cinnamon sugar mixture until each is evenly and thoroughly coated.

# Notes:

01 - To prevent cream cheese from leaking during baking, ensure all dough edges are sealed tightly around the filling.
02 - Crescent roll or puff pastry dough is easier to handle and shape when thoroughly chilled.
03 - Avoid overfilling each roll; a teaspoon of cream cheese filling is typically sufficient to prevent bursting.
04 - Serve these rolls warm for the most enjoyable, creamy experience.
05 - Store any leftover rolls in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving for best results.
06 - For a chocolatey variation, add a spoonful of Nutella to the cream cheese filling.
07 - Create a fruity version by mixing fresh or frozen berries into the cream cheese filling.
08 - For an apple cinnamon twist, spoon apple pie filling inside with the cream cheese.
09 - To make savory rolls, use garlic herb cream cheese and coat them in grated Parmesan cheese instead of cinnamon sugar.