Cream Cheese Roll-Ups Recipe
There is something so joyfully nostalgic about Cream Cheese Roll-Ups. Imagine irresistible pillows of sandwich bread rolled around a sweet, cloudlike cream cheese filling, then bathed in cinnamon sugar and baked until perfectly crisp. These treats are foolproof, outrageously good, and just as welcome at breakfast as after dinner. If you’re looking for a dessert or snack that checks every box—fun to prep, easy to customize, and bound to disappear in minutes—this is the recipe you’ll want to commit to memory.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Only a handful of everyday ingredients come together to make these Cream Cheese Roll-Ups shine. Each item plays an important role in creating that magical combination of creamy, crispy, and totally irresistible.
- White or whole wheat sandwich bread: Soft bread turns into the perfect golden shell with a quick roll and bake.
- Cream cheese (softened): The ultra-smooth, tangy filling that gives these roll-ups their signature flavor and luscious texture.
- Powdered sugar: Adds sweetness to the filling, making it creamy and dreamy.
- Vanilla extract: Balances out the tang from the cream cheese with a lovely, warm aroma.
- Granulated sugar: Forms the sweet, crunchy exterior when baked.
- Ground cinnamon: Provides warmth and classic comfort—cinnamon sugar is the star of the outer layer.
- Melted butter: Helps the cinnamon sugar stick and adds rich, indulgent flavor while baking.
How to Make Cream Cheese Roll-Ups
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This not only prevents sticking but allows the roll-ups to bake evenly and develop their signature crispiness.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is completely smooth. Take your time here—this is where the luscious, sweet center happens. A little patience ensures there are no lumps, just pure creamy goodness.
Step 3: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar
In a separate small bowl, stir together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This fragrant mixture will coat each roll-up, giving every bite that classic, can’t-resist flavor.
Step 4: Flatten the Bread
Take each slice of sandwich bread (with the crusts already removed) and use a rolling pin to flatten them until quite thin. This step makes the bread pliable and ensures it wraps beautifully around the creamy filling.
Step 5: Fill and Roll
Spread about one tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture onto each bread slice, keeping it evenly distributed. Starting from the short edge, roll each slice up tightly—think of a snug little blanket around that decadent filling.
Step 6: Dip and Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
Brush or dip each roll-up in melted butter, making sure every side is coated. Immediately roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture so the coating adheres on all sides. Place each finished roll seam-side down on your parchment-lined tray.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the Cream Cheese Roll-Ups are golden and crisp, and your whole kitchen smells like a bakery. Let them cool slightly (though it’s hard to wait!) before diving in.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Roll-Ups

Garnishes
A simple dusting of extra powdered sugar makes these roll-ups look bakery-worthy. You can also try drizzling with a touch of honey or a thin vanilla glaze for an extra-special finish. Fresh berries on the side add a pop of color and tart contrast to each sweet, creamy bite.
Side Dishes
Cream Cheese Roll-Ups pair perfectly with a platter of fresh fruit, a steaming mug of coffee, or even a small scoop of vanilla ice cream for a late-night treat. If serving for brunch, a side of scrambled eggs or bacon balances out the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the roll-ups stacked in a tower on a cake stand for an eye-catching display, or slice each one into bite-sized pieces for a fun, shareable dessert platter. They’re also delightful arranged around a bowl of fruit compote or warm chocolate sauce for dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you manage to have leftovers (lucky you!), store the Cream Cheese Roll-Ups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator—they’ll be good for up to three days. Just be sure to let them cool completely before packing away to preserve that crispiness.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze baked Cream Cheese Roll-Ups. After they’ve cooled, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep nicely for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply move them to the fridge overnight to thaw.
Reheating
To revive that fresh-from-the-oven magic, reheat Cream Cheese Roll-Ups in a 350°F oven or air fryer for about 5 minutes, or until warmed through and crisp again. The microwave works in a pinch, but the texture is best when reheated with dry heat.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread?
Definitely! While classic white or whole wheat sandwich bread works best for that soft, rollable texture, you can experiment with brioche or other soft breads for a slightly richer flavor and color.
What else can I add to the filling?
Mini chocolate chips, a sprinkle of chopped strawberries, or even a touch of lemon zest can take your Cream Cheese Roll-Ups in a fun, personalized direction. Have fun and get creative based on your cravings!
Do these Cream Cheese Roll-Ups work as a make-ahead treat?
Yes, you can assemble the roll-ups a few hours ahead and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. If you’re planning to bake them the next day, wait to dip in butter and cinnamon sugar until just before baking for the crispiest finish.
Is there a gluten-free version?
Absolutely! Just use your favorite gluten-free sandwich bread, making sure it’s soft and pliable. The rest of the recipe remains exactly the same.
Can I serve these cold?
While they are best served warm, Cream Cheese Roll-Ups can be enjoyed at room temperature as well—just know the texture will be less crisp but still totally delicious.
Final Thoughts
If you love easy desserts that feel extra special, you’ll want to make Cream Cheese Roll-Ups again and again. Whether you serve them for brunch, snack time, or as a sweet surprise after dinner, these little gems always draw a crowd. Give them a try and get ready for big smiles—happy baking!
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Cream Cheese Roll-Ups Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 roll-ups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delightful Cream Cheese Roll-Ups for a sweet treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert. These baked delights are filled with a creamy, sweetened cream cheese filling and coated in a cinnamon sugar mixture for a crispy finish.
Ingredients
Bread:
- 8 slices white or whole wheat sandwich bread, crusts removed
Cream Cheese Filling:
- 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: Mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Make Cinnamon Sugar Coating: In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon.
- Assemble Roll-Ups: Flatten bread slices, spread cream cheese mixture, and roll up tightly. Dip in melted butter, then coat with cinnamon sugar.
- Bake: Place roll-ups on the baking sheet seam-side down and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Best enjoyed warm; reheat in oven or air fryer if needed.
- For variety, add mini chocolate chips or chopped strawberries inside before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll-up
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 11 g
- Sodium: 130 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg