Indulging in a warm, creamy dessert is one of life’s simple pleasures, and there’s no better way to experience this than with a comforting dish of Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding. This delightful recipe combines the beloved flavors of cinnamon rolls with the rich, custardy goodness of bread pudding, creating a dessert that’s perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of day. What makes this dish particularly special is its ability to evoke feelings of nostalgia; it’s a dish often associated with family gatherings and holiday celebrations, reminiscent of cozy mornings spent with loved ones. The layers of cinnamon and sugar blend seamlessly with the soft, fluffy bread, creating a heavenly experience in every bite. Each forkful offers a warm embrace, making it not just a dessert, but a comforting memory in itself. If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that will impress friends and family, look no further! With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this sumptuous treat that is guaranteed to bring smiles all around the table.

Ingredients

To make this luscious Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding, gather the following ingredients: You can learn more about this topic. It’s essential to use quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor and texture in your finished dish. Aim for fresh, high-quality cinnamon rolls, as the flavor of the rolls will greatly influence the overall taste of the pudding.

• For the Bread Pudding:
  • 6 cups of day-old cinnamon rolls, cut into cubes. The day-old rolls absorb the custard more effectively, creating a moister pudding. The ideal texture is light and airy yet still rich, which day-old rolls can help achieve.
  • 4 large eggs, which provide structure and richness. Ensure they are at room temperature for easier mixing and better incorporation into the custard.
  • 2 cups of whole milk for creaminess; you can also use a milk alternative for a lighter version, such as almond milk or oat milk, if desired. This can provide a different flavor profile while keeping the dish creamy.
  • 1 cup of heavy cream, adding a luxurious texture that enhances the dessert’s decadence. This is what gives the pudding its custardy richness—substituting with half-and-half can work, but it will yield a different texture.
  • 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, balancing the flavors of the cinnamon. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can reduce this amount slightly.
  • 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract for a subtle aromatic flavor that complements the cinnamon. Using pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, enhancing the dish’s signature flavor profile. For extra depth, consider using Saigon cinnamon, which has a more robust flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon of salt, which helps elevate the sweetness and round out the flavors. A pinch of salt truly brings out the sweetness in the dish.
• For the Topping:
  • 1/2 cup of powdered sugar for a sweet glaze that adds a beautiful finish. This type of sugar dissolves easily in liquids, creating a smooth glaze.
  • 2 tablespoons of milk or cream, adjusting the thickness of the glaze to your preference. Use heavy cream for a richer glaze and milk for a lighter option.
  • 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract to maintain consistency in flavor throughout the dessert. This helps to tie together the flavors of the pudding and the glaze.

Note: Feel free to use store-bought cinnamon rolls for convenience, or make your favorite homemade cinnamon roll recipe! If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with flavored rolls, such as caramel or chocolate. Such variations can introduce exciting new flavors to the pudding, elevating it to new heights. Check out our related guide for more tips on ingredient selection and preparation methods.

Steps / Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread pudding bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown top. The preheating step is crucial, as baking in a properly heated oven helps achieve the ideal texture. This step also ensures that the custard begins to set immediately, preventing sogginess.
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls: Take your day-old cinnamon rolls and cut them into bite-sized cubes. If they are freshly baked, allow them to cool for a bit, as day-old bread works best for absorbing the custard mixture. The key here is to ensure that the cubes are roughly uniform in size for even baking. Smaller cubes will soak up more custard, while larger cubes will provide a more substantial bite.
3. Mix the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until fully combined. This custard will give your bread pudding its rich, creamy texture. Whisking well helps to aerate the mixture, contributing to a lighter texture in the finished dish. Ensure there are no visible egg streaks, as this will help create a uniform custard.
4. Combine Bread and Custard: Gently fold the cinnamon roll cubes into the custard mixture. Ensure every piece is well-coated, allowing them to soak for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that moist and flavorful interior. Stir carefully to avoid breaking apart the roll cubes; you want them to retain their shape for a delightful texture. If possible, press the cubes down into the custard to maximize absorption.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Pour the cinnamon roll and custard mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly. Take care to distribute the cubes in an even layer, ensuring that each piece has a chance to soak up the custard. You can also sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or sugar on top for added flavor before baking.
6. Bake the Bread Pudding: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The pudding should be set but still soft and custardy. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning. If you notice that the top is browning too quickly, you can tent the dish with aluminum foil.
7. Prepare the Topping: While the bread pudding is baking, mix the powdered sugar, milk (or cream), and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. This glaze will add a sweet finishing touch to your dessert. Adjust the consistency of the glaze as needed; it should be pourable but not too runny. A thicker glaze will provide a more concentrated sweetness.
8. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes. Drizzle the prepared topping over the warm bread pudding and serve. Enjoy it on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat! Serving warm highlights the gooey center, making every bite a delicious experience. For an extra flourish, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few fresh berries on the side.

Tips & Tricks

To help you achieve the best results with your Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding, consider the following tips:

• Make-Ahead Option: This bread pudding can be assembled a day in advance. Simply prepare it, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge. This makes it a great option for holiday gatherings or brunch parties, allowing you to enjoy the time spent with guests rather than in the kitchen.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also enjoy it cold, as the flavors will continue to meld together, offering a different yet delightful taste experience. Consider slicing the pudding into squares for easy reheating and serving.
• Common Mistakes: Avoid using fresh cinnamon rolls, as they may not absorb the custard as well. Day-old rolls tend to hold their shape while soaking up the mixture, resulting in a better texture. Additionally, be cautious not to overbake; the pudding should remain soft in the center. Always perform the knife test to ensure it’s set without losing its delightful custard consistency.
• Pro Tip: For added flavor, consider adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, or dried fruit to the mixture before baking. This enhances the texture and adds an unexpected crunch. You can also experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist. Combining different textures and flavors will elevate your Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding to a gourmet level.

Conclusion

With its warm, gooey center and delightful cinnamon flavor, Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding is an indulgent treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are enjoying it as a sweet breakfast idea or a comforting dessert, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your thoughts with us! Happy baking! Remember, the joy of cooking comes not just from the finished dish, but from the love and care you put into every step.

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Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding

Recipe by Chef

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Dinner Cuisine: American Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

− 8 +

⏱️

Prep Time

20 min

🍳

Cook Time

50 min

🔥

Calories

—

Indulging in a warm, creamy dessert is one of life's simple pleasures, and there's no better way to experience this than with a comforting dish of Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding. This delightful recipe combines the beloved flavors of cinnamon rolls with the rich, custardy goodness of bread pudding, creating a dessert that's perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of day.

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Ingredients

US Metric

• 6 cups of day-old cinnamon rolls, cut into cubes
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups of whole milk
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 3/4 cup of granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 cup of powdered sugar (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons of milk or cream (for topping)
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract (for topping)

Directions

1.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2.

Cut day-old cinnamon rolls into bite-sized cubes.

3.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until combined.

4.

Gently fold the cinnamon roll cubes into the custard mixture and let them soak for about 10 minutes.

5.

Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and pour in the cinnamon roll and custard mixture.

6.

Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and a knife comes out clean.

7.

Mix powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla extract to make the topping.

8.

Cool for 10-15 minutes, then drizzle the topping over the bread pudding and serve.

Nutrition Facts