Name: Deliciously Flaky Cruffins: Easy Recipe with Cinnamon Sugar
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 38 min
Ingredients: 1 package Pillsbury™ Original Crescent Dough Sheets; 1/2 cup Softened Butter (Consider using salted butter for extra taste or unsalted if preferred.); 1/2 cup Sugar (Try using brown sugar for a deeper flavor profile.); 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon (For a twist, substitute with apple pie spice or pumpkin pie spice.)

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It’s the kind of delicious moment that takes me back—freshly baked pastries puffing up in the oven, the warm scent wrapping around me like a cozy blanket. Enter cruffins: a delightful pastry hybrid that combines the flaky layers of a croissant with the sweet, cinnamon-infused goodness of a cinnamon roll. Thanks to the magic of Pillsbury™ Original Crescent Dough, this Easy Cinnamon Sugar Cruffin recipe is not only a breeze to whip up, but it’s also perfect for impressing friends or enjoying a little indulgence at breakfast. In just a few simple steps, you’ll create treats that are crisp on the outside and soft with gooey sweetness inside—a true crowd-pleaser without the fuss of making dough from scratch. Are you ready to elevate your baking game? Let’s dive in!

Why are cruffins the perfect treat?

Irresistible Flavor: The delightful combo of flaky layers and a gooey cinnamon-sugar filling creates a taste sensation that will have you reaching for seconds.
Speedy Preparation: Using Pillsbury™ Original Crescent Dough means you’ll skip the time spent making dough from scratch, getting you to the delicious part much faster.
Versatile Indulgence: Feel free to experiment with fillings, like chocolate or seasonal fruits, making these cruffins a year-round delight.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts, these pastries are sure to impress anyone who tries them.
Baking Made Easy: Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned chef, this simple recipe ensures success every time, making it an easy addition to your baking repertoire. Want to explore more sweet creations? Check out my guide on 10 easy pastry recipes.

Cruffins Ingredients

For the Cruffin Dough

Pillsbury™ Original Crescent Dough Sheets – The key ingredient that provides a quick and easy flaky base; can substitute with Original Crescent Rolls, sealing perforations before rolling.
Softened Butter – Enhances richness and flavor; consider using salted butter for extra taste or unsalted if you prefer.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

Sugar – Adds delightful sweetness to the cruffins; try using brown sugar for a deeper flavor profile.
Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warm spice throughout; for a twist, substitute with apple pie spice or pumpkin pie spice.

With these ingredients, you’ll be on your way to creating the most delicious cruffins, perfect for sharing or savoring at home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cruffins

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking. While the oven heats, generously grease a muffin tin with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking. Additionally, place a sheet of foil on the lower oven rack to catch any drips during baking, keeping your oven clean.

Step 2: Prepare Dough Sheets
Unroll one Pillsbury™ Original Crescent Dough Sheet on a clean surface, carefully pressing it into a 13×8-inch rectangle. This will provide the base for your cruffins, ensuring the flaky layers are evenly distributed. Make sure to smooth out any creases in the dough, which helps achieve a uniform bake and stunning pastry presentation.

Step 3: Add Filling
Spread a layer of softened butter over the dough sheet, using a spatula or butter knife for even coverage. Once the butter is on, generously dust the entire surface with your cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring each bite will be flavorful. The rich butter and sweet spices will bond together beautifully as the cruffins bake, creating that irresistible flavor combination.

Step 4: Roll & Seal
Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log shape, making sure to keep the filling inside. Once rolled, pinch the seam closed to secure the filling, ensuring it doesn’t escape during baking. This method will create delightful layers of dough and filling, which is essential for the flaky texture of your cruffins.

Step 5: Cut & Shape
With a sharp knife, cut the rolled dough in half, then cut each half lengthwise to form four strips. You will now have 12 pieces of dough to work with. Take each piece and twist it into a spiral shape, placing them cut-side up in the prepared muffin cups. This formation will help the cruffins rise beautifully in the oven, creating a charming presentation.

Step 6: Bake
Carefully place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake the cruffins for about 18 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should turn golden brown and puff up nicely. When you see a beautiful golden crust, they’re ready to come out! Let them cool for a few minutes in the tin before handling.

Step 7: Finishing Touches
As soon as they are cool enough to handle, roll the warm cruffins in any remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat them fully. This extra touch will enhance their sweetness and give a delightful crunch to the exterior. The final result will be a deliciously flaky cruffin that’s great for a cozy breakfast or a sweet snack!

Expert Tips for Delicious Cruffins

Use Room Temperature Butter: Allow your softened butter to sit out for a bit before spreading; this makes it easy to cover the dough evenly.
Even Dough Thickness: Ensure the dough is rolled out evenly to create consistent flaky layers in your cruffins. Uneven dough can lead to a lumpy texture.
Seal the Seams Well: When rolling the dough, pinch the seams tightly. This prevents any cinnamon sugar from leaking out during baking, keeping your cruffins intact and flavorful.
Watch the Baking Time: Ovens can vary; check your cruffins a minute or two before the suggested baking time. They should be golden brown for the best texture.
Customize Your Fillings: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Try adding chocolate chips or fruit fillings for a fun twist and to keep your cruffins exciting every time you make them.

Make Ahead Options

These cruffins are a perfect candidate for meal prep, making your busy mornings much easier! You can prepare the dough rolls up to 24 hours in advance; just follow the recipe instructions and chill them, covered tightly in plastic wrap, in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their quality, preventing them from drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy fresh cruffins, simply remove them from the fridge and allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking. This brief resting period ensures they puff up beautifully during baking, giving you those irresistibly flaky results just like you made them from scratch—just without the fuss!

How to Store and Freeze Cruffins

Room Temperature: Store leftover cruffins in a loosely covered container for up to 1 day to maintain their softness. This allows the flaky layers to stay intact without becoming soggy.
Fridge: If you need to store them longer, keep the cruffins in the fridge for up to 3 days. Wrap them in plastic wrap to prevent drying out, but they may lose some of their original flakiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cruffins for up to 2 months. Place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag, and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes before enjoying.
Reheating: To revive the perfect texture, reheat cruffins in the oven instead of the microwave. This way, they retain their beautiful flaky quality and warmth, making them just as delightful as when they were freshly baked.

What to Serve with Easy Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins?

These delightful pastries are perfect for creating a warm and inviting breakfast or snack experience that everyone will love.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries and citrus balances the sweetness of cruffins, adding a refreshing lift to your meal.
Rich Greek Yogurt: Pair with a dollop of honey and nuts for a creamy contrast that complements the flaky pastry perfectly.
Steamy Cup of Coffee: The rich, bold flavors enhance the sweet, cinnamon notes of the cruffins, making for a cozy breakfast delight.
Sweet Honey Butter: A spreadable treat that adds indulgence and richness, amplifying the flavor of every delicious bite.
Refreshing Iced Tea: A crisp and cool beverage choice, perfect for serving during warmer days alongside your warm cruffins.
Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For a fun twist, serve with a warm chocolate dip—a sweet indulgence that enhances each cruffin.

Imagine enjoying these delightful pairings, each complementing the flaky and gooey goodness of your cruffins while creating a full sensory experience.

Cruffins: Endless Customization Awaits

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you embark on your cruffin-making adventure!

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine for a vegan-friendly twist.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crescent dough for a deliciously inclusive treat that everyone can enjoy.
Chocolate Delight: Fold in mini chocolate chips when spreading the butter for a rich, sweet surprise with every bite.
Spiced Up: Mix in nutmeg or cardamom with the cinnamon for a fragrant spice blend that elevates the flavor profile.
Fruity Filling: Add diced apples or blueberries under the cinnamon sugar for fruity bursts of flavor in each fluffy layer.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon filling for added texture and earthiness.
Heat it Up: For a little kick, mix a pinch of cayenne pepper into your cinnamon-sugar for a sweet and spicy combo.
Savory Twist: Experiment with savory fillings, like cheese and herbs, to create a unique cruffin perfect for brunch.

These delightful variations allow you to make the cruffins your own, whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savory. Want more inspiration? Check out my ideas for perfect pastry pairings!

Cruffins Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right Pillsbury dough for cruffins?
Absolutely! For cruffins, I recommend using the Pillsbury™ Original Crescent Dough Sheets, as they provide a perfect flaky texture. If you can’t find them, you can use Pillsbury™ Original Crescent Rolls but make sure to seal the perforations well to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.

How should I store leftover cruffins?
To maintain the softness of your cruffins, store any leftovers in a loosely covered container at room temperature for up to 1 day. For longer storage, wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh but may slightly affect their texture.

Can I freeze cruffins, and how?
Yes, you can freeze cruffins! For optimal results, place them in an airtight container or a zip-top bag, ensuring you remove all the air. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to bring back that delightful flakiness.

What should I do if my cruffins don’t rise properly?
Very! If your cruffins aren’t rising as expected, it could be due to pressing the dough too flat or underbaking them. Ensure you roll the dough to the correct thickness and keep an eye on baking time. If using crescent rolls, also make sure to pinch the seams tightly to keep the filling in. Enjoy experimenting with your baking until you find the perfect rise!

Are cruffins suitable for people with allergies?
When considering dietary restrictions, keep in mind that this cruffin recipe contains gluten and dairy due to the dough and butter. If allergies are a concern, opt for gluten-free dough alternatives available at many stores. You could also use a non-dairy butter substitute to accommodate lactose intolerance, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this delightful treat!

How can I enhance the flavor of my cruffins?
Of course! To add an extra kick to your cruffins, try incorporating a teaspoon of vanilla extract into your softened butter for a rich aroma. Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom, or consider adding mini chocolate chips to the filling for a delightful chocolatey twist. The beauty of cruffins lies in their versatility!