WW 2 Points – Mini Cinnamon Rolls: A Hug in a Bite

There’s something undeniably comforting about the scent of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the kitchen. For me, it conjures up memories of rushed mornings, hushed whispers of excitement on holidays, and the simple joy of a treat that feels both decadent and attainable. These mini cinnamon rolls, particularly the “2 points” version I first encountered in the pages of WW magazine, hold a special place in my heart. They represent that perfect balance – a way to indulge in a classic, beloved flavor profile without derailing your entire day’s points budget. I remember the first time I made them, skeptical that something so small and seemingly simple could deliver that classic swirl of sweet, spiced goodness. But with the first warm, gooey bite, all my doubts melted away. It was pure magic, a tiny, perfect moment of deliciousness that proved you don’t need elaborate ingredients or hours in the kitchen to create something truly special.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
• Total Time: 25-28 minutes
• Servings: 12
• Yield: 12 mini rolls
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

The beauty of these mini cinnamon rolls lies in their simplicity, relying on a few pantry staples and a clever use of readily available ingredients.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl:

• 2 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon unsalted butter, melted

For the Rolls:

• 1 (11 ounce) package refrigerated breadstick dough

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 1/4 cup low-fat cream cheese (also known as Neufchatel), softened
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
• A few drops of water, if needed for consistency

Equipment Needed

While these rolls are wonderfully simple, a few essential tools will make the process smooth and efficient.

• Baking sheet
• Small bowl (for the cinnamon sugar mixture)
• Another small bowl (for the glaze)
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Whisk or fork (for the glaze)
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Cooking spray

Instructions

Crafting these delightful mini cinnamon rolls is a straightforward process, yielding a batch of sweet treats perfect for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon indulgence.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensuring your oven is at the correct temperature is the first crucial step for achieving perfectly baked rolls.
2. Prepare your baking pan. Spray a 9×13 inch baking pan with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes for easy removal once they’re baked.
3. Mix the cinnamon sugar filling. In a small bowl, combine the packed dark brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted unsalted butter. Stir until well combined. Set this mixture aside.
4. Prepare the breadstick dough. Separate the refrigerated breadstick dough into its individual 12 strips.
5. Form the swirls. Sprinkle the tops of each breadstick strip with the prepared brown sugar mixture. Then, roll each strip into a spiral, starting from one end and coiling it into a tight roll. Press the ends gently to seal the spiral, ensuring the filling stays tucked inside.
6. Arrange the rolls. Arrange the formed cinnamon rolls in the prepared 9×13 inch baking pan. Make sure to leave about 1 inch of space between each roll to allow for even baking and expansion.
7. Bake the rolls. Bake in the preheated oven until the rolls are lightly golden brown, which should take approximately 15-18 minutes. Keep a close eye on them as oven temperatures can vary.
8. Cool slightly. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the rolls cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This brief cooling period helps them set up a bit before glazing.
9. Prepare the glaze. While the rolls are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a separate small bowl, combine the softened low-fat cream cheese, vanilla extract, and confectioners’ sugar. Whisk or stir vigorously until you achieve a smooth, spreadable glaze. If the glaze seems too thick, add a few drops of water at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
10. Glaze and serve. Drizzle the prepared cream cheese glaze generously over the tops of the warm rolls. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving. These mini cinnamon rolls are best served warm.

Expert Tips & Tricks

To elevate your mini cinnamon roll game, here are a few seasoned insights:

• Don’t Over-Mix the Glaze: When making the cream cheese glaze, aim for smooth, not airy. Over-whipping can incorporate too much air, leading to a less smooth finish. A gentle whisking is all that’s needed.
• Breadstick Dough Variations: While the standard refrigerated breadstick dough works wonderfully, some brands might have slightly different textures. If you find yours is particularly sticky, a light dusting of flour on your surface when rolling can be helpful.
• Achieving the Perfect Spiral: For a neat spiral, try to keep the rolling tension consistent. If your dough is very cold, it might be a bit stiffer to roll. Allowing it to sit at room temperature for just a few minutes can make it more pliable.
• The “Drizzle” Technique: For an artful drizzle, you can use a spoon to artfully drizzle the glaze, or for more control, place the glaze in a small piping bag with a fine tip, or even a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These mini cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat best enjoyed shortly after they’ve been glazed.

• Serving: Serve these warm rolls as a delightful breakfast accompaniment, a sweet afternoon snack, or even a light dessert. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk.
• Storage: Leftover mini cinnamon rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds, or in a low oven for a few minutes until warmed through.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	34.3 kcal
Calories from Fat
Total Fat	1.4 g	2%
Saturated Fat	0.9 g	4%
Cholesterol	4.4 mg	1%
Sodium	19.9 mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate	5 g	1%
Dietary Fiber	0.1 g	0%
Sugars	4.7 g	18%
Protein	0.5 g	0%

(Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Variations & Substitutions

While the classic recipe is a winner, feel free to experiment with these delicious variations:

• Nutty Crunch: Before rolling the dough, sprinkle a tablespoon or two of finely chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon sugar mixture for added texture and flavor.
• Citrus Zest: Add the zest of half a lemon or orange to the cream cheese glaze for a bright, refreshing twist.
• Different Spices: Experiment with adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a more complex spice profile.
• Dairy-Free Glaze: For a dairy-free option, whisk together powdered sugar with a non-dairy creamer or milk (like almond or oat milk) and a touch of vanilla extract until a glaze consistency is reached.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these mini cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the cinnamon sugar mixture and the glaze ahead of time and store them separately. However, it’s best to assemble and bake the rolls closer to serving for optimal freshness.

Q: My glaze is too thin, how can I thicken it?
A: If your glaze is too thin, gradually whisk in more confectioners’ sugar, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired spreadable consistency.

Q: Can I use regular brown sugar instead of packed dark brown sugar?
A: Yes, you can use regular brown sugar, but packed dark brown sugar will provide a richer, more molasses-like flavor.

Q: How do I ensure the breadstick dough rolls up nicely into a spiral?
A: Gently unroll the breadstick dough and try to keep the tension even as you roll it into a spiral. Pinching the end to seal helps maintain the shape.

Q: Can I freeze these mini cinnamon rolls?
A: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze baked and cooled rolls. Ensure they are tightly wrapped. Reheat them gently in the oven or microwave.

Final Thoughts

These WW 2 Points Mini Cinnamon Rolls are a testament to the fact that delicious indulgence doesn’t always require a compromise. They are a small bundle of joy, a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and creamy glaze, all achieved with minimal fuss. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, I encourage you to give these delightful swirls a try. They are sure to bring a smile to your face and a touch of cozy comfort to your day. Don’t be surprised if they become a regular feature in your kitchen – I know they have in mine!