Cinnamon Roll Waffles (Easy Recipe)

Jump to Recipe

Cinnamon Roll Waffles (Easy Recipe)

Wake-up calls don’t get sweeter—or simpler—than cinnamon roll waffles. When you crave both the warmth of cinnamon rolls and the crispy pockets of waffles, this easy breakfast hybrid solves your dilemma in minutes. With a package of store-bought cinnamon rolls, a hot waffle iron, and a quick cream cheese glaze, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds.

Whether you’re gathering the family for a weekend brunch, hosting friends, or just want an effortless treat, these waffles satisfy. Below you’ll find everything you need to know: ingredient details, helpful techniques, topping ideas, storage solutions, and tips to guarantee perfect waffles every time.

Why Make Cinnamon Roll Waffles?

Cinnamon roll waffles feel like a breakfast hack. By cooking ready-made cinnamon rolls in a waffle iron, you trade oven wait times for golden, crisp-edged waffles with a gooey center and spirals of cinnamon sugar baked in. The process is quick—most waffles cook up in under four minutes—and the results always look and taste far fancier than the prep involved.

This method delivers a waffle with caramelized edges and a satisfying chew—perfect for a quick weekday breakfast or a luxurious weekend spread. You can involve kids in placing, pressing, and glazing, making it fun for little helpers.

Ingredients

Let’s keep it straightforward. Here’s what you need to make about 8 cinnamon roll waffles:

• 1 can refrigerated cinnamon rolls (Pillsbury Grands or another brand; size will affect cooking time)
• Cream cheese icing (from the cinnamon roll package)
• ⅓ cup powdered sugar (for a smoother, richer glaze)
• 1–3 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for depth in the glaze)

You’ll also want a bit of non-stick cooking spray if your waffle iron isn’t non-stick. For variety, include fresh fruit or your favorite toppings (see Topping Suggestions below).

Equipment

• Waffle iron (standard or Belgian-style)
• Mixing bowl and spoon
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons
• Serving plate and a spatula

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Waffles

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Waffle Iron

Plug in your waffle iron and let it preheat fully. If the surface is not non-stick, lightly spray it with cooking spray. Preheating ensures crispy waffles. Drop a water droplet onto the plate; if it sizzles, the iron is ready.

2. Place Cinnamon Rolls in the Iron

Open the can of cinnamon rolls and set aside the cream cheese icing. If using Grands (large rolls), cook one at a time. For smaller rolls, two may fit at once. Gently press a single roll in the center of the waffle iron. Don’t flatten; the iron will do the work.

3. Cook

Close the lid and cook for 2–4 minutes. Cooking times vary by waffle iron and dough size. Start checking for doneness at the two-minute mark. The waffle should be deep golden brown with crisp edges. If the iron releases little steam, that’s a cue it’s ready.

4. Remove and Repeat

Using a spatula, carefully lift the waffle and set it on a wire rack. This prevents it from steaming and losing crispness. Repeat with the remaining rolls, reapplying spray if needed.

5. Make Cream Cheese Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the reserved icing, powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of milk, and vanilla until smooth. Add more milk for a thinner glaze, or less for a thick topping.

6. Serve

Drizzle glaze generously over the hot waffles. The warm dough soaks in the glaze for luscious flavor in every bite.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Spray the iron with non-stick spray only if necessary; too much can cause tough waffles.
• For best texture, place cooked waffles on a cooling rack. This keeps them crisp while you finish the batch.
• For brunch parties, keep finished waffles warm. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a 250°F oven.
• Waffles sticking? Wait another 30 seconds; undercooked rolls tend to tear when lifted.
• Cooking multiple waffles? Wipe the iron between batches to prevent sugar build-up and sticking.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Cinnamon Roll Dough: Use classic, low-fat, or flavored varieties. For a homemade touch, use your own dough, shaped and sliced for the iron.
• Glaze: If you run out, mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and vanilla.
• Milk: Use any milk—dairy, almond, oat, or soy—for the glaze.

Topping Suggestions

Cinnamon roll waffles are like a blank canvas. Here are a few topping ideas to take them further:

Try mixing, matching, and letting the crowd choose.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

Storing Leftovers

Cinnamon roll waffles store well, keeping their flavor and texture if handled right.

• Short-Term: Let waffles cool fully. Place in an airtight container. Refrigerate up to 4 days.
• Long-Term: Arrange cooled waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid (about 1 hour). Transfer to a resealable freezer bag, pressing out as much air as possible. Label and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 10–15 minutes on a baking tray. No need to thaw.
• Toaster: Pop a waffle or two in for 1–2 cycles until heated and crisp.
• Microwave: Use 20–30 second bursts for a softer result.

Avoid adding glaze before freezing; thaw and glaze after reheating for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do cinnamon roll waffles take to cook?

Most are ready in 2–4 minutes. Powers and brands vary. Check the first one, then use it as your baseline for cooking the rest.

Can I make these without a non-stick waffle iron?

Yes, but use a light hand with oil or cooking spray and wipe the iron between batches.

Are they good for a crowd?

Absolutely. Bake ahead and keep warm in the oven, or freeze and reheat so you’re not tied to the waffle iron during guests’ arrival.

Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough?

Definitely. Roll, slice, and let them rise until doubled before pressing them into the iron.

Serving Suggestions

Pair cinnamon roll waffles with:

• Hot coffee or chai for adults
• Fresh fruit or orange juice for a quick breakfast
• Scrambled eggs, bacon, or breakfast sausage for a hearty brunch

Stack them high and drizzle with extra glaze or serve as singles for lighter fare.

Final Notes

Cinnamon roll waffles deliver maximum payoff for minimal effort. In fifteen minutes, you transform a humble can of dough into an indulgent breakfast that tastes bakery-fresh. Layer on your favorite toppings, serve them hot, and watch them disappear. Whether it’s a quiet morning or a celebratory brunch, these waffles are a treat that impresses with every bite.