If you’re on the hunt for a delightful, crispy, and sweet treat that will have everyone asking for seconds, this Honey Cinnamon Roll-Ups Recipe is a total winner. Layers of flaky phyllo dough wrap around a fragrant mix of toasted walnuts, cinnamon, and sugar, then get kissed by a luscious honey syrup that adds just the right touch of sticky sweetness. These roll-ups bring together textures and flavors beautifully, making them perfect for sharing at any gathering or savoring as a special indulgence anytime you crave something truly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Honey Cinnamon Roll-Ups Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtful ingredients. Each element plays a role in delivering texture, aroma, and sweetness — from the crunch of toasted walnuts to the flaky crispness of phyllo dough, all rounded with a buttery finish and a honey-cinnamon syrup glaze that ties everything together.
- 2 cups ground walnuts, toasted: Toasting enhances their nutty flavor and adds a satisfying crunch to the filling.
- 1/4 cup sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance the nuts and spice inside the rolls.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: This warm spice lifts the flavor, infusing the filling with cozy aroma.
- 12 sheets frozen phyllo dough, thawed: When baked, these create the irresistible crisp and flaky exterior you’ll love.
- 1/2 cup butter, melted: Brushed between the phyllo layers, it ensures golden, tender roll-ups.
- SYRUP: This comes together from 1/2 cup honey, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice — a sweet and tangy glaze that brings everything to life.
How to Make Honey Cinnamon Roll-Ups Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Nut Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it’s warming, mix together the toasted ground walnuts, sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. This filling will deliver the sweet, nutty, and spiced heart that makes the Honey Cinnamon Roll-Ups Recipe so irresistible.
Step 2: Assembling the Roll-Ups
Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a large piece of waxed paper and brush it generously with melted butter. Place a second sheet on top and brush again with butter. Keep the rest of the phyllo sheets covered with a damp towel to prevent drying. Then sprinkle 1/4 cup of your nut mixture evenly over the layered dough. Using the waxed paper, roll the dough jelly-roll style starting with a long side, peeling away the paper as you roll. Slice the log into four smaller rolls, and place them in a greased 13×9-inch baking dish. Repeat until you’ve used all dough and filling, ensuring every roll is full of that irresistible filling.
Step 3: Baking and Syrup Preparation
Bake the rolls in the preheated oven until they turn a lovely light brown, about 14 to 16 minutes. While they bake, whisk together the honey, sugar, water, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes, creating a syrupy glaze. Let the syrup cool slightly. Once the rolls come out of the oven, cool them on a wire rack before drizzling with the syrup and sprinkling with the remaining walnut mixture for added texture and flavor.
How to Serve Honey Cinnamon Roll-Ups Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios or a dusting of powdered sugar can elevate your Honey Cinnamon Roll-Ups Recipe beautifully. These simple touches add a pop of color and an extra layer of texture while keeping the focus on the sweet, nutty goodness of the rolls.
Side Dishes
Pair these roll-ups with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a fresh fruit salad for balance. The cooling creaminess contrasts the warm, crisp roll-ups, making every bite a comfort-filled experience perfect for dessert or an afternoon treat.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive occasion, arrange your Honey Cinnamon Roll-Ups Recipe on a tiered serving platter dotted with fresh berries and edible flowers. Alternatively, serve each roll on a small plate with a drizzle of honey and a cinnamon stick for a rustic, inviting look that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your Honey Cinnamon Roll-Ups Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them crisp and flavorful without drying out the delicate phyllo layers.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked roll-ups. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This makes weeknight treats or unexpected guests a breeze!
Reheating
To reheat, pop the roll-ups in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 10 minutes to restore crispness and warmth. Microwaving can make the phyllo chewy, so it’s best to stick to the oven for that perfect fresh-baked texture.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
Definitely! Pecans or almonds also work wonderfully and add their own unique flavor and crunch. Just make sure to toast them first to bring out the best taste.
Is it okay to prepare the syrup ahead of time?
Yes, the syrup can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just warm it gently before drizzling over the warm roll-ups for the best texture and flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To keep it vegan, swap the butter for a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine. Ensure your phyllo dough is vegan-friendly as well to enjoy these sweet treats without animal products.
How long can I keep the roll-ups before the phyllo gets soggy?
Phyllo is best enjoyed fresh within a day or two to maintain crispiness. Storing in an airtight container helps, but syrup-soaked pastries will gradually soften over time.
Can these be made gluten-free?
Traditional phyllo dough contains gluten, but you can seek out gluten-free phyllo alternatives or try using thin gluten-free wraps. Keep in mind the texture will differ slightly, but they will still be delicious!
Final Thoughts
This Honey Cinnamon Roll-Ups Recipe truly embodies the joy of simple ingredients coming together to make something unforgettable. Whether you’re treating yourself or gathering friends and family, these roll-ups bring warmth, sweetness, and crunch in every bite. Grab your ingredients and make some magic happen — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Honey Cinnamon Roll-Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these Honey Cinnamon Roll-Ups, a crispy and sweet pastry treat made with toasted walnuts, cinnamon, and a luscious honey syrup. Wrapped in layers of flaky phyllo dough and baked to golden perfection, these roll-ups offer a perfect balance of nutty and sweet flavors ideal for dessert or a special snack.
Ingredients
Walnut Filling
- 2 cups ground walnuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Phyllo Dough
- 12 sheets frozen phyllo dough, thawed
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Syrup
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare filling: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine the ground toasted walnuts, sugar, and ground cinnamon thoroughly. Set aside.
- Assemble roll-ups: Place one sheet of thawed phyllo dough on a 15×12-inch piece of waxed paper and brush it generously with melted butter. Top with a second sheet and brush with butter again. Keep remaining sheets covered with a damp towel to prevent drying. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of the walnut mixture evenly over the double-layered phyllo. Using the waxed paper as a guide, roll the phyllo tightly jelly-roll style starting from the long edge, peeling away the paper as you roll. Once rolled, cut the roll into 4 smaller pieces. Place these smaller rolls into a greased 13×9-inch baking dish. Repeat the process with the remaining phyllo sheets and walnut mixture until all are assembled.
- Bake the roll-ups: Bake the assembled rolls in the preheated oven for 14 to 16 minutes or until they turn light golden brown. Remove from oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack.
- Prepare the syrup: Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine honey, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and cool the syrup for about 10 minutes.
- Serve with syrup: Drizzle the cooled syrup evenly over the baked roll-ups and sprinkle with any remaining walnut mixture for added crunch and flavor. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Keep unused phyllo dough covered with a damp towel to prevent it from drying out and becoming brittle.
- Ensure that the syrup is cooled slightly before drizzling to avoid making the roll-ups soggy.
- For added texture, you can toast the walnut mixture lightly before assembling.
- These roll-ups are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, warm them briefly in the oven to restore their crispiness.
