Cinnamon roll bread pudding has become my absolute go-to for a comforting dessert or a truly special breakfast. I remember the first time I tried making it; I had some stale cinnamon rolls from the day before and didn’t want them to go to waste. The aroma that filled my kitchen as it baked was pure magic – sweet, warm, and undeniably cozy! This simple transformation turned ordinary leftovers into something incredibly decadent. If you’re looking for a way to elevate your brunch game or create a truly memorable treat, this homemade cinnamon roll bread pudding is it. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding
This isn’t just any dessert; it’s an experience! Here’s why you’ll be making this easy cinnamon roll bread pudding again and again:
- Incredible Flavor: It tastes just like a warm, gooey cinnamon roll, but with the comforting texture of bread pudding.
- Quick Prep Time: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can whip this up even on a busy weeknight.
- Budget-Friendly: It’s the perfect way to use up stale baked goods, saving you money and reducing waste.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore this sweet treat, making it ideal for any gathering.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a decadent breakfast, a comforting dessert, or a sweet afternoon snack.
- Simple to Make: This easy cinnamon roll bread pudding recipe is foolproof, even for beginner bakers.
- Satisfying Texture: Crispy edges meet a soft, custardy center for a delightful contrast.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding
Transforming those cinnamon rolls into a delicious dessert is surprisingly simple. Here’s what you’ll need for this fantastic cinnamon swirl bread pudding:
- 6 stale cinnamon rolls, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 4 cups) – Day-old rolls are key as they absorb the custard better without getting too mushy.
- 2 cups whole milk – This forms the base of our rich, creamy custard.
- 3 large eggs – They bind everything together and create that wonderful, custardy texture.
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar – Adds a lovely caramel note and sweetness to complement the cinnamon.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Enhances all the other flavors and adds a warm aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Because, well, it’s cinnamon roll bread pudding!
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg – A little pinch adds a touch of warmth and complexity.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter – Drizzled over the top, it helps create those irresistible crispy edges.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding
Get ready to create a dessert that smells as amazing as it tastes! This recipe for baked cinnamon roll bread pudding is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. Let’s get started!
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish. This ensures your pudding won’t stick and will bake evenly.
- Step 2: Arrange the cubed stale cinnamon rolls in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. Try to spread them out so they are not too clumped together.
- Step 3: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk the 3 large eggs until they are smooth and light. Gradually whisk in the 2 cups whole milk, 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg until everything is thoroughly combined. This custard mixture is the heart of your pudding.
- Step 4: Gently pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll cubes in the baking dish. You’ll see the rolls start to soak it up. Let this sit undisturbed for about 10 minutes. This crucial step allows the bread to absorb the liquid, creating that perfect soft, custardy texture we all love in a baked cinnamon roll bread pudding.
- Step 5: Drizzle the 2 tablespoons melted butter evenly over the top of the assembled pudding. This helps create those wonderfully crispy, golden-brown edges that make this dessert so irresistible.
- Step 6: Place the dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the pudding is puffed up, has a beautiful golden-brown color, and is set in the center with just a slight jiggle. The aroma filling your kitchen will be heavenly!
- Step 7: Carefully remove the baked cinnamon roll bread pudding from the oven. Let it cool slightly for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the custard to fully set and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy this warm, decadent treat!
Pro Tips for the Best Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding
Want to elevate your cinnamon roll bread pudding from great to absolutely unforgettable? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference:
- Always use day-old or slightly stale cinnamon rolls. Fresh ones can turn mushy.
- Don’t skip the soaking time! Letting the bread absorb the custard is crucial for texture.
- A little extra cinnamon and nutmeg in the custard boost the warm, spiced flavor.
- For an extra layer of flavor, add a simple cream cheese glaze after baking.
What’s the secret to perfect Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding?
The real secret to a truly decadent cinnamon roll bread pudding lies in the custard-to-bread ratio and letting it soak properly. Using day-old cinnamon rolls ensures they absorb the rich custard without breaking down, creating that perfect balance of gooey center and slightly crisp edges. For more baking tips, check out this guide to homemade seasoning mixes which can also enhance baked goods.
Can I make Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble this overnight cinnamon roll bread pudding up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before putting it in the oven, and you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding?
The most common pitfalls are using fresh cinnamon rolls (they get too soggy) or under-baking. Make sure your rolls are stale, and bake until the center is set with just a slight jiggle. Rushing the soaking time can also lead to a less cohesive pudding. If you’re looking for other quick dessert ideas, consider these 15 quick and delicious dishes.
Best Ways to Serve Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding
This delightful dessert is fantastic on its own, but serving it just right can take it to the next level. Here are my favorite ways to enjoy this warm cinnamon roll bread pudding:
- With Vanilla Ice Cream: The contrast between the warm, soft pudding and a scoop of cold, creamy vanilla ice cream is pure bliss. It’s a classic pairing for a reason!
- Drizzled with Glaze: If your cinnamon rolls didn’t come with frosting, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and a hint of vanilla is divine. This adds an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
- Alongside Fresh Fruit: A side of fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, can add a lovely tartness that cuts through the richness of the pudding, offering a refreshing balance.
Nutrition Facts for Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding
This decadent dessert is a real treat! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 280mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on healthy eating, you might find this article on foods to eat less of helpful.
How to Store and Reheat Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding
Even though this homemade delight is best served fresh, you’ll be happy to know that storing and reheating your cinnamon roll bread pudding casserole is a breeze. Once it’s cooled down completely, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. You can keep this delicious dessert in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. It holds up remarkably well, maintaining its comforting texture.
For longer storage, this bread pudding freezes beautifully. Wrap individual portions or the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap, then a layer of aluminum foil, and pop it into the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, I find gently warming individual slices in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes works wonders, or you can microwave it for a quick warm-up. It’s still incredibly tasty!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding
What is cinnamon roll bread pudding?
Cinnamon roll bread pudding is a delightful dessert or breakfast dish made by transforming stale cinnamon rolls into a rich, custardy bake. It takes the familiar flavors of a cinnamon roll – the sweet dough, cinnamon swirl, and often a creamy frosting – and combines them with the comforting texture of bread pudding.
How do I make cinnamon roll bread pudding?
Making cinnamon roll bread pudding is quite simple! You’ll start by cubing stale cinnamon rolls and placing them in a baking dish. Then, you whisk together a custard base of milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and spices, and pour it over the rolls. After letting it soak for a bit, you bake it until golden and puffed. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover cinnamon rolls! For more baking inspiration, check out these easy chocolate chip cookie recipes.
Can I use fresh cinnamon rolls for this recipe?
While day-old or stale cinnamon rolls are best for this sweet cinnamon roll bread pudding because they absorb the custard without becoming too mushy, you can use fresh ones. If you do, I highly recommend toasting the cubed rolls lightly in the oven for about 5-10 minutes before adding the custard. This helps them dry out just enough to achieve a better texture.
What kind of cinnamon rolls work best for bread pudding?
You can use most standard grocery store cinnamon rolls. Whether they are from a tube, a bakery, or homemade, as long as they are a bit stale, they’ll work wonderfully. If you’re using a richer dough like brioche cinnamon rolls, you might need to adjust the sugar slightly, but the base recipe for cinnamon bun bread pudding is very forgiving.
Variations of Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic, why stop there? This versatile dessert is a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious twists. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next batch:
- Dietary Adjustments: For a gluten-free version, try using gluten-free cinnamon rolls or a good quality gluten-free bread. You can also experiment with dairy-free milk alternatives like almond or oat milk for a lactose-free option.
- Flavor Boost: Amp up the flavor by adding a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the mix, or swirl in some fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries. A bit of orange zest can also add a bright, surprising note to this cinnamon bun bread pudding.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: For an extra layer of indulgence, try swirling in a simple cream cheese mixture. Beat together softened cream cheese with a little powdered sugar and vanilla, then dollop it into the custard before baking. This creates pockets of tangy sweetness, making it a truly decadent cinnamon roll bread pudding with cream cheese frosting experience.
- Quick Skillet Version: Instead of baking, try making a skillet version on the stovetop. Break up the cinnamon rolls in an oven-safe skillet, pour over the custard, and cook over medium-low heat until set, finishing under the broiler for a crispy top.
Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding: 15 Min Prep Comfort
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Transform stale cinnamon rolls into a warm, comforting dessert with this easy cinnamon roll bread pudding recipe. It features a sweet, custardy treat with crispy edges and soft, cinnamon-scented centers, perfect for dessert or a decadent brunch.
Ingredients
- 6 stale cinnamon rolls, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 4 cups)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Place the cubed stale cinnamon rolls into the prepared baking dish.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg until combined.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll cubes in the baking dish. Let sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the assembled pudding.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pudding is puffed, golden brown, and set in the center with a slight jiggle.
- Let cool slightly before serving warm.
Notes
- Day-old cinnamon rolls work best for this cinnamon roll bread pudding recipe.
- Adjust the sugar in the custard based on the sweetness of your cinnamon rolls.
- Serve this cinnamon roll bread pudding warm, ideally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- If using fresh cinnamon rolls, toast them lightly before cubing to help them absorb the custard.
- This cinnamon swirl bread pudding can be assembled ahead of time and baked when ready.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
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