Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding – Easy Homemade Dessert Recipe
Published: 1 Mar 2026
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding
The beauty of this dessert comes from simple ingredients. Most of them are already in many home kitchens. Cinnamon rolls create the base of the pudding, while eggs and milk form the rich custard that holds everything together.
Using slightly dry cinnamon rolls works best. They absorb the custard well and create the soft texture that bread pudding is known for.
Bread Base
- 6 to 8 cinnamon rolls, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for greasing the baking dish
Custard Mixture
- 3 large eggs
- 2 egg yolks
- 1½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Add-Ins
These ingredients are optional, but they add extra flavor and texture.
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- ¼ cup raisins or chocolate chips
Cream Cheese Glaze
- 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Recipe Method
Making cinnamon roll bread pudding is simple when you follow each step carefully. The key is allowing the cinnamon rolls to absorb the custard before baking. This step creates a soft and creamy center.
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preparing the oven first ensures the pudding bakes evenly. Take a medium baking dish and grease it well with the butter. This step prevents the bread pudding from sticking and helps the edges turn golden while baking.
Cut the cinnamon rolls into bite-size pieces. Spread the pieces evenly in the baking dish so they form a loose layer. Do not press them down too tightly. Leaving small spaces between the pieces allows the custard to soak through. If you plan to use nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips, sprinkle them evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture
Take a large mixing bowl and add the eggs and egg yolks. Whisk them gently until the yolks and whites combine. Add the milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Continue whisking until the mixture becomes smooth and the sugar dissolves.
This mixture forms the custard. Custard is simply a mixture of eggs and milk that thickens while baking. It gives bread pudding its rich and creamy texture.
Step 3: Combine the Cinnamon Rolls and Custard
Slowly pour the custard mixture over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish. Make sure the liquid spreads evenly across the entire dish. Use a spoon or spatula to gently press the cinnamon roll pieces down. This helps them absorb the custard properly.
Let the mixture rest for 10 to 15 minutes. During this time, the bread will soak up the custard. This step is important because it ensures every bite becomes soft and flavorful.
Step 4: Bake the Bread Pudding
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake the pudding for 35 to 40 minutes. As the pudding bakes, the custard thickens and the top begins to turn golden brown. The center should look set but still slightly soft.
You can test the center by inserting a knife. If it comes out mostly clean, the pudding is ready. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the pudding to settle and makes it easier to serve.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze
While the pudding cools slightly, prepare the glaze. Place the softened cream cheese in a bowl and mix until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Stir until the glaze becomes creamy and pourable.
If the glaze feels too thick, add a small spoon of cream and mix again.
Step 6: Serve the Bread Pudding
Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the warm bread pudding. Let the glaze gently flow over the golden top and into the soft layers below.
Serve the pudding warm for the best flavor. The soft cinnamon rolls, creamy custard, and sweet glaze create a dessert that feels comforting and satisfying.
Variations to Try
One reason many cooks love this recipe is that it can easily be adjusted. A few simple additions can create exciting new flavors.
Caramel Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding
Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the baked pudding just before serving. The caramel adds a deep, buttery sweetness that pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
Apple Cinnamon Version
Add one cup of small diced apples to the cinnamon roll mixture before pouring in the custard. The apples become soft while baking and add a fresh fruit flavor.
Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding
Mix half a cup of chocolate chips with the cinnamon roll pieces. The chocolate melts during baking and adds a rich touch to each bite.
Nut Crunch Version
Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking. The nuts become lightly toasted and add a pleasant crunch.
Mistakes to Avoid
Even a simple dessert can go wrong when small steps are skipped. Avoiding these common mistakes will help your bread pudding turn out perfect.
Using Very Fresh Cinnamon Rolls
Fresh rolls are soft but may not absorb custard well. Slightly dry rolls work better because they soak up the liquid and create the proper texture.
Skipping the Soaking Time
Letting the bread sit in the custard for several minutes is very important. This step ensures the center becomes soft and flavorful.
Baking at High Temperature
A hotter oven may cook the outside too quickly while leaving the center undercooked. A steady temperature allows the custard to bake evenly.
Overbaking the Pudding
Bread pudding should stay soft in the middle. Baking it too long can make it dry and firm.
Conclusion
Cinnamon roll bread pudding is a dessert that brings comfort and sweetness to the table. It blends the warm flavor of cinnamon with the creamy richness of baked custard. Each spoonful feels soft, sweet, and satisfying.
This recipe is easy enough for a relaxed weekend baking session but special enough to serve to family and friends. With the simple ingredients and clear steps above, you can prepare a dessert that tastes like it came from a bakery.
Once you enjoy this recipe, take some time to check the homepage for more tasty food recipes. You may discover your next favorite dish to cook at home.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought cinnamon rolls?
Yes, store-bought cinnamon rolls work very well in this recipe. They save time and still create a rich and flavorful dessert.
Can I prepare the bread pudding ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble the pudding, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Bake it the next day when you are ready to serve it.
How should I store leftovers?
Place leftover bread pudding in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about three to four days.
How do I reheat bread pudding?
You can warm a serving in the microwave for about 30 to 40 seconds. For a larger portion, reheat it in the oven at a low temperature until warm.
Can cinnamon roll bread pudding be frozen?
Yes. Allow the pudding to cool completely, then store it in a sealed container and freeze it for up to two months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
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- Be Respectful
- Stay Relevant
- Stay Positive
- True Feedback
- Encourage Discussion
- Avoid Spamming
- No Fake News
- Don't Copy-Paste
- No Personal Attacks
