Indulge in Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding for a Sweet Breakfast Treat
Start your day off with a decadent and comforting dish by indulging in Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding. This easy-to-make breakfast treat combines the warm, spiced flavors of cinnamon rolls with the rich creaminess of classic bread pudding, creating a delightful dish perfect for weekend brunch or special occasions.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Simplifies breakfast preparation: Uses store-bought cinnamon rolls for convenience without sacrificing flavor.
- Rich and comforting: Creamy custard-soaked bread pudding with the signature cinnamon swirl and icing drizzle.
- Versatile and kid-friendly: Perfect for family gatherings or as an indulgent treat to start the day.
- Make-ahead friendly: Can be assembled the night before and baked fresh in the morning.
Ingredients
- 6 large cinnamon rolls (store-bought or homemade), unheated
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar or prepared cream cheese icing (optional, for serving)
Equipment Needed
- 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease the baking dish thoroughly.
- Prepare the cinnamon rolls: Cut the cinnamon rolls into bite-sized pieces and spread them evenly in the greased baking dish.
- Make the custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined and smooth.
- Combine custard and bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces, pressing gently to help the bread absorb the liquid. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to soak.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden and slightly puffed.
- Cool and serve: Allow the bread pudding to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Optionally, drizzle with cream cheese icing or sprinkle with powdered sugar for extra indulgence.
Preparation Time
15 minutes (plus 10 minutes soaking time)
Cooking Time
40-45 minutes
Total Time
55-60 minutes
Servings
6 servings
Difficulty Level
Easy
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Use fresh cinnamon rolls: For best texture and flavor, use fresh, soft cinnamon rolls rather than stale bread.
- Don’t skip soaking: Allow the custard to soak into the bread before baking for optimal creaminess.
- Check doneness: The pudding is done when the custard is set and a knife inserted comes out clean.
- Add nutty crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for texture contrast.
- Make ahead: Assemble the pudding in the baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Milk: Substitute whole milk with any plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk; texture will vary slightly.
- Heavy cream: Use coconut cream or an extra 1/2 cup milk for a lighter pudding.
- Cinnamon rolls: Use any sweet roll or brioche if cinnamon rolls are unavailable.
- Sugar: Replace granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Substitute with almond extract for a nutty twist.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store leftover bread pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheating: Warm individual servings in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or reheat the whole dish in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls add a personal touch and fresh flavor to the bread pudding.
Do I need to refrigerate it before baking?
It is not necessary but recommended to let the custard soak into the bread for at least 10 minutes before baking to enhance texture.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute milk and cream with plant-based alternatives such as almond or coconut milk/cream.
Is it possible to add fruit to this bread pudding?
Yes, adding fruits like raisins, chopped apples, or berries can enhance flavor and texture. Add them with the bread pieces before pouring the custard.
How can I make it less sweet?
Reduce the sugar amount slightly or skip the icing drizzle to adjust sweetness to your taste.
Conclusion
Indulging in Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding is the perfect way to combine comforting flavors with an effortless preparation. This sweet breakfast treat elevates any morning and offers flexibility for variations and make-ahead convenience. Whip it up for a special start to your day or weekend brunch that will have everyone asking for seconds!