Name: Irresistibly Decadent Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 4 large Eggs (acts as a binder); 4-6 cups Cinnamon Rolls (cut into bite-sized pieces); 2 cups Milk (can substitute with half-and-half); 1 cup Heavy Cream (for richness); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (sweetens the mixture); 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract (pure for better flavor); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (to enhance flavors); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (balances sweetness); 1/2 cup Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (optional for crunch); 1/2 cup Raisins or Chocolate Chips (optional for sweetness); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (for sweetness); 2-3 tablespoons Milk (for glaze consistency); 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (to enhance glaze flavor)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the weather cools and the scent of cinnamon wafts through the air, my thoughts inevitably drift to comfort foods that warm the soul. One such delight is my Decadent Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding—a creation born from the remnants of weekend brunches. Picture this: fluffy cinnamon rolls transformed into a pudding that’s both creamy and indulgent. Each bite offers a sweet, gooey surprise, blending nostalgia and innovation in a single dish.

This dessert isn’t just about the taste; it’s also a charming way to breathe new life into those leftover rolls that often linger on the counter. In just 15 minutes, you can throw together a heavenly mixture that will bake into a golden-brown masterpiece filled with hints of vanilla and cinnamon. It’s versatile enough for a cozy breakfast or a satisfying end to a dinner party. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll be coming back for seconds—if not thirds! Let’s dive into how you can create this delightful treat in your own kitchen.

Why is Decadent Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding a must-try?

Irresistible Flavor: The harmony of cinnamon rolls with a creamy custard creates a sweet explosion of flavor in every bite.
Quick Prep Time: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can whip up this cozy dessert in no time!
Ultimate Comfort: It combines the nostalgia of cinnamon rolls with the luxurious richness of bread pudding.
Versatile Dessert: Perfect for brunch or as a sweet treat after dinner, this dish fits any occasion.
Leftover Magic: Transform those leftover rolls into a show-stopping dessert, minimizing food waste!
Easily Customizable: Add nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor, making it truly your own.
If you’re looking for another delicious twist, check out my recipe for Decadent Peanut Butter Buckeye Balls that can satisfy your sweet tooth in a whole new way!

Decadent Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding Ingredients

For the Pudding Base:

Cinnamon Rolls – Use store-bought or homemade, cut into bite-sized pieces for the best texture.
Eggs – 4 large eggs act as a binder, adding richness to the pudding.
Milk – Adds moisture; feel free to substitute with half-and-half for a creamier texture.
Heavy Cream – Enhances richness; swap with whole milk for a lighter version if desired.
Granulated Sugar – 1/2 cup sweetens the mixture nicely.
Vanilla Extract – 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract deepens the flavor profile.
Ground Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon to elevate the cinnamon notes in the dish.
Salt – Just 1/4 teaspoon balances the sweetness beautifully.

For the Topping:

Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (optional) – 1/2 cup adds a delightful crunch and nuttiness to the pudding.
Raisins or Chocolate Chips (optional) – 1/2 cup can sweeten and enhance the texture of your dessert.

For the Glaze:

Powdered Sugar – 1 cup for a sweet finishing touch that elevates the dish.
Milk – 2-3 tablespoons to achieve the perfect glaze consistency.
Vanilla Extract – 1/2 teaspoon enhances the flavor of your glaze for added deliciousness.

How to Make Decadent Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure easy removal later.
Whisk Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 2 cups of milk, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until fully combined and slightly frothy.
Combine Cinnamon Rolls: Gently fold in about 4 to 6 cups of cinnamon roll pieces, ensuring each piece is well-coated in the creamy mixture. You can also mix in any optional nuts or chocolate chips at this stage.
Pour Mixture: Pour the bread pudding mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly for consistent baking.
Soak: Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the cinnamon rolls to soak up some of that delicious custard for a custardy texture.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set—beautifully rising and fragrant!
Check Doneness: Insert a knife into the center of the pudding; it should come out clean, indicating it’s perfectly baked.
Cool: Once out of the oven, let the bread pudding cool for a few minutes, allowing it to set further before serving.
Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons of milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Adjust Consistency: If the glaze is too thick, add a bit more milk or sugar to achieve your desired consistency.
Serve: Drizzle the luscious glaze over the warm bread pudding, serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon for an aromatic touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Decadent Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding?

Imagine a cozy gathering with the scent of spices lingering in the air, making your meal unforgettable.

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries add a burst of tartness that perfectly contrasts the sweetness of the pudding.
Whipped Cream: A fluffy dollop of whipped cream enhances the creamy texture while adding lightness to each rich bite.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over your bread pudding introduces a luscious depth that elevates your dessert experience.
Coffee or Tea: A hot cup of coffee or herbal tea complements the warm spices, creating a comforting finish to your meal.
Cinnamon Ice Cream: A scoop of cinnamon ice cream mirrors the flavors of the pudding while adding creaminess—pure bliss!
Maple Syrup: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup brings a natural sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Pairing these elements will create a memorable dining experience that lingers long after dessert is finished.

Expert Tips for Decadent Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding

Right Roll Choice: Use either store-bought or homemade cinnamon rolls; ensure they’re not too fresh to better absorb the custard without becoming soggy.
Soak Properly: Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes before baking to achieve that luxuriously custardy texture—this step can’t be skipped!
Glaze Consistency: Adjust your glaze thickness as needed; aim for a pourable consistency to create an enticing drizzle over your bread pudding.
Baking Perfection: Keep an eye on the bake time; ovens vary, so check for that golden top and test doneness for the best Decadent Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding possible.
Storage Tips: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and you can easily reheat them for a quick treat!

Decadent Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore your creativity with this delightful recipe by trying out these exciting adjustments!

Dairy-Free: Substitute with almond milk and coconut cream for a creamy, non-dairy version that everyone can enjoy.
Nut-Free: Omit nuts and replace with sunflower seeds or extra chocolate chips if you prefer a nut-free treat.
Sweetness Levels: Adjust the sugar by using maple syrup or honey for a natural sweetness twist that complements the cinnamon flavor beautifully.
Texture Boost: Add shredded coconut or crushed graham crackers to the pudding mix for a fun texture variation that adds a delightful crunch.
Flavor Explosion: Consider replacing the vanilla extract with almond extract for a unique twist that brightens the overall profile of the pudding.
Fruit Infusion: Incorporate fresh or frozen berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, into the mixture for a fruity burst amidst the gooey cinnamon goodness.
Spice It Up: Elevate the warmth by adding nutmeg or ginger for an aromatic twist that’s perfect for special occasions.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in chocolate sauce or swap out chocolate chips with caramel for a decadent, indulgent treat that satisfies any sweet tooth!

Make this recipe your own by mixing and matching these variations—experiment and enjoy your delicious creations!

Make Ahead Options

Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding is perfect for meal prep, making it a fantastic choice for busy days. You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance—simply follow the instructions up to the soaking step, cover, and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the cinnamon rolls to soak up the custard fully, ensuring an incredibly rich texture. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in a preheated oven and cook as directed. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and simply reheated to enjoy. Following these steps ensures your delicious Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding remains just as delightful!

How to Store and Freeze Decadent Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding

Fridge: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the pudding cool down completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. To reheat, place the desired portion in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
Serving Tip: Consider drizzling fresh glaze over the pudding after reheating for that just-baked flavor, enhancing your Decadent Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding experience!

Decadent Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs

What kind of cinnamon rolls work best in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use either store-bought or homemade cinnamon rolls. Just make sure they are not too fresh, as slightly day-old rolls will absorb the custard better without becoming too soggy.

How should I store leftover Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just allow the pudding to cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup inside the container.

Can I freeze Decadent Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding?
Yes! For longer storage, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to label them for easy identification!

What’s the best way to reheat frozen bread pudding?
First, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. To reheat, place your portion in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until it’s warmed through. For added delight, drizzle fresh glaze over the top after reheating.

Can I add mix-ins or toppings to the pudding?
Very! This recipe is highly customizable. Consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit like raisins. Tailoring it to your tastes can create a unique twist each time you make it!

Is this dessert safe for pets or anyone with allergies?
Be cautious, as this recipe contains ingredients like eggs, dairy, and sugar that may not be suitable for pets. Always check for allergies related to specific ingredients, especially if you are sharing with guests or family members.