Cinnamon Roll Waffles with Cream Cheese Glaze
A comforting, bakery-style breakfast made right at home
Introduction
Imagine the warm, cinnamon-sugar aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls paired with the crisp, golden edges of waffles. That’s exactly what you get with cinnamon roll waffles—a genius shortcut that transforms classic dough into a quicker, equally satisfying breakfast. Topped with a silky cream cheese glaze, these waffles are perfect for weekend brunch, special occasions, or whenever you want to treat yourself.
This recipe balances ease and homemade flavor. You can use store-bought cinnamon roll dough for convenience or make your own if you want a fully from-scratch experience. Either way, the result is irresistible.
Ingredients
For the Waffles
- 1 can refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (with icing removed and set aside), or homemade cinnamon rolls (about 8 rolls)
- Non-stick cooking spray or a little butter for greasing
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
- 120 g (4 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 60 g (4 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 tbsp milk (for desired consistency)
- Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- Maple syrup
- Extra cinnamon dusting
- Whipped cream
Equipment Needed
- Waffle maker
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or whisk
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Waffle Maker
Start by preheating your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A well-heated waffle maker ensures a crispy exterior and prevents sticking.
Lightly grease the plates with non-stick spray or brush with melted butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls
If you’re using store-bought cinnamon rolls:
- Open the can and separate each roll.
- Set aside the included icing—you can use it later or mix it into your glaze.
If using homemade dough:
- Slice your cinnamon roll log into evenly sized portions.
Let the rolls sit at room temperature for about 5–10 minutes so they’re easier to work with.
Step 3: Cook the Waffles
Place one cinnamon roll in the center of the waffle iron. Close the lid gently—don’t press too hard as the dough needs space to expand.
Cook for 3–5 minutes, depending on your waffle maker. You’re looking for:
- A golden brown exterior
- Slight crispiness on the edges
- Fully cooked center
Carefully remove the waffle using a spatula and place it on a cooling rack. This helps keep it crisp instead of soggy.
Repeat with the remaining rolls.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze
In a medium bowl:
- Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy.
- Add powdered sugar gradually, mixing well.
- Pour in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a pourable but slightly thick consistency.
The glaze should be smooth, creamy, and easy to drizzle.
Step 5: Assemble
Place your warm cinnamon roll waffles on a plate. Generously drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the top.
Add optional toppings like berries, nuts, or a dusting of cinnamon.
Serve immediately while warm.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Roll Waffles
1. Don’t overcook
Cinnamon rolls contain sugar that can caramelize quickly. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
2. Use medium heat
Too high heat may cook the outside too fast while leaving the inside undercooked.
3. Let them rest briefly
Cooling on a rack keeps the waffles crisp.
4. Customize sweetness
Adjust the glaze sweetness by adding more or less powdered sugar.
5. Add texture
A sprinkle of nuts or granola adds a nice crunch contrast.
Homemade Cinnamon Roll Dough (Optional Upgrade)
If you want to go all out, here’s a quick overview:
Dough Ingredients
- 3 cups flour
- 2¼ tsp yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- ¼ cup sugar
- ¼ cup butter
- 1 egg
- Pinch of salt
Filling
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp cinnamon
- ¼ cup butter
Prepare the dough, let it rise, roll it out, add filling, roll into a log, slice, and use the slices in your waffle maker.
Variations
1. Chocolate Cinnamon Roll Waffles
Add chocolate chips to the rolls before cooking or drizzle melted chocolate on top.
2. Apple Cinnamon Version
Top waffles with sautéed apples cooked in butter, sugar, and cinnamon.
3. Nutty Delight
Mix crushed pecans into the glaze or sprinkle on top.
4. Maple Cream Cheese Glaze
Replace vanilla with maple extract and reduce sugar slightly.
Storage and Reheating
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
- Reheat in a toaster or oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Avoid microwaving if possible, as it makes them soft.
Serving Ideas
- Serve as a brunch centerpiece with fruit salad and coffee
- Pair with scrambled eggs for a sweet-savory combo
- Cut into quarters for a fun party snack
- Stack them like a waffle tower for presentation
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is successful because it:
- Uses pre-made dough for convenience
- Leverages the waffle maker for speed and texture
- Combines crispy and gooey textures
- Balances sweetness with tangy cream cheese
It’s the perfect fusion of comfort food and creativity.
Final Thoughts
Cinnamon roll waffles with cream cheese glaze are one of those recipes that feel special but are surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for guests or just upgrading your breakfast routine, this dish delivers warmth, sweetness, and satisfaction in every bite.
Once you try it, it might just become a regular in your kitchen.