The Best Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding Recipe combines two breakfast favorites into one mind-blowing dessert. When cinnamon rolls meet custardy bread pudding, pure comfort food magic happens. This dish transforms ordinary cinnamon rolls into a warm, gooey masterpiece that’s perfect for cozy mornings or impressive brunches. The cream cheese glaze? It’s the crowning glory that takes this pudding from great to unforgettable.
After making this recipe countless times, I can confidently say it’s foolproof even for beginner bakers. The contrast between the crispy golden edges and the soft, custard-soaked center creates texture perfection in every bite. Whether you’re hosting weekend guests or just treating yourself on a lazy Sunday, this cinnamon roll bread pudding delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Fall For This Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding
This Best Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding Recipe isn’t just another dessert—it’s a game-changer. The middle stays wonderfully gooey with all that cinnamon swirl goodness, while the edges turn perfectly golden and slightly caramelized. It’s the ideal balance between rich custard and sweet cinnamon that makes you close your eyes with every bite.
What makes this recipe extra special is its flexibility. You can use store-bought cinnamon rolls when you’re short on time, or go all out with homemade cinnamon rolls for special occasions. Both options create an incredible result, making this perfect for both planned gatherings and last-minute dessert emergencies.
The cream cheese glaze deserves its own round of applause. Unlike regular bread pudding that often gets a simple dusting of powdered sugar, this version features a thick, tangy glaze that seeps into all the nooks and crannies. It tastes like your favorite cinnamon roll and Sunday brunch had a delicious baby!
- Perfect texture contrast between crispy edges and soft center
- Works with both homemade or store-bought cinnamon rolls
- The cream cheese glaze transforms it into something extraordinary
- Surprisingly simple to make despite its impressive appearance
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Bread Pudding
- 6–8 large cinnamon rolls (store-bought, from a tube, bakery-fresh, or day-old homemade — slightly stale rolls actually work best)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
👉 Tip: Using rolls that are a day or two old helps them soak up the custard without turning mushy.
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (to thin glaze to desired consistency)
👉 Tip: The glaze should be pourable but not watery. Add the milk a little at a time until you reach the perfect drizzle.
Gathering ingredients for this easy bread pudding recipe is half the battle, and luckily, most are probably already in your kitchen. The star ingredient is, of course, cinnamon rolls—either from a tube, bakery-bought, or even day-old homemade ones. This recipe actually works better with slightly stale rolls, as they soak up the custard more effectively.
For the custard base, you’ll need eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and a bit more cinnamon to really drive home that warm spice flavor. The combination creates the perfect rich, silky texture that transforms ordinary cinnamon rolls into something spectacular. If you’re into bread desserts, you’ll appreciate how this custard mixture works its magic.
The cream cheese glaze requires cream cheese (obviously!), powdered sugar, a touch of butter for richness, and milk to adjust the consistency. Don’t skimp here—this glaze is what ties the whole Best Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding Recipe together.
Ingredient Substitutions
| Ingredient | Use | Substitutes |
|---|---|---|
| Cinnamon Rolls | Base | Day-old brioche or challah (add extra cinnamon) |
| Heavy Cream | Custard | Whole milk or half-and-half |
| Cream Cheese | Glaze | Mascarpone or Greek yogurt |
How to Make the Best Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding Recipe
Creating this cinnamon roll bread pudding is surprisingly straightforward. The process breaks down into simple steps that even novice bakers can tackle with confidence. Let’s walk through how to transform ordinary cinnamon rolls into an extraordinary dessert experience.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the rolls – Cut already baked cinnamon rolls into roughly 1-inch chunks. If using store-bought rolls, bake them according to package directions first, then cool slightly before cutting. Arrange these pieces in a well-greased 9×13 baking dish.
- Make the custard – In a large bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 1½ cups whole milk, ½ cup heavy cream, ⅓ cup sugar, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon until perfectly smooth and well combined.
- Pour and soak – Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces. Use a spatula to gently press down, ensuring all pieces get soaked. Let this sit for at least 15-20 minutes—this soaking time is crucial for the Best Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding Recipe.
- Bake to perfection – Place in a preheated 350°F oven and bake for 40-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center, and the top turns beautifully golden brown.
- Prepare the glaze – While the pudding bakes, beat 4 ounces of softened cream cheese with 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons melted butter, and 2-3 tablespoons milk until smooth and pourable. For a different twist, check out other cream cheese desserts for inspiration.
- Add the finishing touch – Once the bread pudding has cooled for about 10 minutes (still warm but not hot), drizzle that luscious cream cheese glaze all over. The slight warmth helps the glaze seep into all the crevices.
What makes this recipe stand out is how the cinnamon roll pieces retain their identity while melding with the custard. Some parts stay distinctly cinnamon roll-like, while others transform into pure bread pudding heaven. It’s this contrast that makes each bite a new discovery.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought Cinnamon Rolls
Let’s settle the debate about which rolls make the Best Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding Recipe. Both homemade and store-bought options have their merits, and I’ve tried this recipe countless times with both varieties. The good news? This dessert turns out amazing regardless of which path you choose.
Homemade cinnamon rolls bring a deeper flavor profile and can be customized with extra cinnamon, orange zest, or even cardamom for a unique twist. If you’re feeling ambitious, try making apple cinnamon rolls as your base—the fruit adds incredible dimension to the finished pudding. The texture of homemade rolls also tends to be less uniform, creating interesting pockets throughout the pudding.
Store-bought rolls (like Pillsbury or other refrigerated tube varieties) offer convenience that can’t be beaten. Simply bake according to package directions, let cool slightly, then proceed with the recipe. They provide consistent results and, honestly, their super-soft texture soaks up the custard beautifully. Many of my friends actually prefer the version made with store-bought rolls!
Let’s be real—nobody is judging if you use the tube stuff. The magic of this bread pudding happens in the transformation, not necessarily in the original rolls. Both options create a dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds.
The Cream Cheese Glaze Makes It
The cream cheese glaze isn’t just a topping—it’s an essential component that completes the Best Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding Recipe. This thick, tangy drizzle transforms an already delicious dessert into something truly memorable. After trying various glazes and toppings, I’m convinced nothing pairs better with this bread pudding than a classic cream cheese glaze.
What makes this glaze special is how it balances the sweetness of the cinnamon-sugar throughout the pudding. The slight tanginess cuts through the richness, preventing the dessert from becoming overwhelmingly sweet. It’s similar to why cream cheese frosting works so well on traditional cinnamon rolls—the contrast is simply perfect.
For the best results, drizzle the glaze while the bread pudding is still slightly warm—not piping hot, but warm enough that the glaze can melt slightly into the crevices. This creates pockets of creamy goodness throughout each serving. If you prefer a thicker topping, wait until the pudding has cooled completely.
Why the Glaze Matters:
- Adds a tangy contrast to the sweet, cinnamon-spiced pudding
- Creates a beautiful finishing touch that makes the dessert look professional
- Introduces a creamy element that complements the varied textures in the pudding
- Ties the whole dish together, making it recognizably a cinnamon roll dessert
Don’t skip the glaze—it’s the signature finish that takes this dessert over the top. If you’re serving this for guests, you can even put extra glaze in a small pitcher on the side for those who want to add more to their individual portions.
Tips for Success
After making this Best Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding Recipe dozens of times, I’ve discovered some game-changing tips that guarantee perfect results every time. These little tweaks might seem minor, but they make all the difference between a good bread pudding and an unforgettable one.
First, use slightly stale cinnamon rolls whenever possible. Day-old rolls absorb the custard much better than fresh ones, resulting in that perfect pudding texture. If you only have fresh rolls, you can quickly dry them out by cutting them up and leaving them on a baking sheet for a couple of hours, or popping them in a low-temperature oven (200°F) for about 10 minutes.
The soaking time is absolutely crucial. Give the custard at least 15-20 minutes to properly infiltrate those cinnamon roll pieces. For an even more luxurious result, you can assemble everything the night before and refrigerate overnight, similar to how you might prepare a donut bread pudding. The extended soak time creates an incredibly uniform texture.
When baking, leave the dish uncovered to achieve that perfect contrast between a crispy, golden top and a soft, custardy center. If you notice the top browning too quickly, loosely tent it with foil for the remainder of the baking time. The pudding is done when it’s set around the edges but still has a slight jiggle in the center—it will continue to set as it cools.
- Don’t overmix the custard—a few small lumps are fine
- Grease your baking dish very generously to prevent sticking
- Let the pudding rest for 10-15 minutes before glazing and serving
- For extra richness, brush the top with melted butter halfway through baking
- Check for doneness by inserting a knife—it should come out mostly clean but not dry
Delicious Variations to Try
The beauty of this Best Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding Recipe lies in its versatility. While the classic version is already incredible, experimenting with different add-ins and flavors can create a customized dessert that perfectly suits your taste preferences. After trying countless variations, these are my favorite ways to put a personal spin on this cinnamon roll dessert.
Add a satisfying crunch by incorporating chopped pecans, walnuts, or even candied nuts into the mixture before baking. The contrast between the soft, custardy pudding and the toasty nuts creates a textural masterpiece that elevates the entire dish. For even more decadence, try toasting the nuts in butter and a little brown sugar before adding them.
Swirling in additional sauces before baking introduces new flavor dimensions. Try drizzling maple syrup, caramel sauce, or even dulce de leche between layers of cinnamon roll pieces. These sweet additions create pockets of gooey goodness throughout the pudding that make each bite a delightful surprise.
For an adult version, add a splash of bourbon, rum, or even amaretto to the custard mixture. The alcohol cooks off during baking, leaving behind a complex flavor that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon. About 2-3 tablespoons is usually sufficient to impart flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Seasonal Twists:
- Fall version: Add diced apples and extra cinnamon
- Summer delight: Top with fresh berries and a lemon zest-infused glaze
- Holiday special: Mix in dried cranberries and orange zest
- Chocolate lover’s dream: Add chocolate chips between layers
Don’t be afraid to combine elements from other favorite desserts. The principles that make this cinnamon roll pudding so delicious can be applied to various flavor profiles. The key is maintaining the proper ratio of custard to bread so the final texture remains perfect.
When to Serve This Cinnamon Roll Dessert
This Best Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding Recipe shines as a versatile dish that fits countless occasions. Its comforting nature makes it perfect for cozy family gatherings, while its impressive presentation works beautifully for more formal events. The beauty is in its adaptability—serve it warm for a homey feel or chilled for an elegant dessert experience.
Weekend brunch becomes extraordinary when this cinnamon roll pudding takes center stage. It pairs perfectly with coffee, mimosas, or even a spiced chai tea. The combination of familiar breakfast flavors in dessert form creates a memorable centerpiece that guests will talk about long after brunch ends. Plus, you can prepare it the night before and simply bake it off in the morning.
Holiday mornings call for special treats, and this recipe delivers without requiring you to spend hours in the kitchen. Christmas, Thanksgiving, or Easter breakfasts feel more festive with a bubbling dish of cinnamon roll pudding on the table. The warming spices create a holiday atmosphere that complements any special occasion.
Need a cozy dessert for a casual dinner party? Serve this pudding warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The contrast between the warm, spiced pudding and cold, creamy ice cream creates a restaurant-worthy dessert experience right at home. For an extra touch, warm some additional cream cheese glaze to drizzle tableside.
- Post-dinner treat for family movie nights
- Make-ahead dessert for busy weekends
- Potluck showstopper that transports easily
- Comforting dessert for cold weather gatherings
- Special breakfast for birthdays or anniversaries
Storage and Reheating Tips
Knowing how to properly store and reheat this Best Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding Recipe means you can enjoy it for days after making it. The good news? This dessert actually develops more flavor as it sits, making leftovers something to look forward to rather than an afterthought. Here’s how to keep it tasting fresh and delicious.
For refrigerator storage, cover the cooled bread pudding tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions to airtight containers. It will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. The cream cheese glaze might soak in a bit more, but this only enhances the overall flavor profile. If you prefer to maintain the distinct layers, you can store unglazed pudding and keep the glaze separate, applying it after reheating.
When it comes to reheating, you have several options depending on how much time you have. For individual servings, the microwave works wonderfully—heat portions for 30-45 seconds until just warmed through. For a crispy top texture, pop your portion in the toaster oven for a few minutes. To reheat the entire remaining pudding, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven for about 15-20 minutes.
This bread pudding also freezes surprisingly well! If you want to save some for later, freeze unglazed portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. They’ll keep for up to a month this way. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, then add fresh glaze for the best results.
Quick Reference Guide:
- Refrigerator storage: 3-4 days in airtight container
- Microwave reheating: 30-45 seconds per serving
- Oven reheating: 325°F for 15-20 minutes (covered)
- Freezer storage: Up to 1 month (unglazed)
- Make-ahead prep: Assemble up to 24 hours before baking
One of my favorite tricks is making a double batch specifically to freeze individual portions. This creates ready-to-go desserts for those nights when you crave something sweet but don’t want to start baking from scratch. Just pull out a portion, reheat, and enjoy instant comfort food!
Your New Favorite Weekend Treat
After dozens of test batches and countless happy tasters, I’m convinced this is truly the Best Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding Recipe you’ll find anywhere. It strikes that perfect balance between impressive and achievable—complex enough to wow your guests but simple enough for weekday baking. The combination of familiar cinnamon roll flavors with the comforting custard texture creates something greater than the sum of its parts.
What makes this recipe stand out is its flexibility. Whether you’re using leftover homemade cinnamon rolls or popping open a tube from the refrigerator section, the end result is always incredibly satisfying. The cream cheese glaze ties everything together, creating that perfect finishing touch that makes each bite memorable.
Don’t wait for a special occasion to try this recipe—sometimes the best reason to make something delicious is simply because it’s the weekend. Treat yourself to this indulgent breakfast-dessert hybrid that’s bound to become a regular in your baking rotation. And when you do make it, don’t forget to snap a photo before that first delicious scoop disappears!
For more breakfast-inspired treats, explore other creative ideas like different flavored cinnamon rolls or unique bread pudding variations. The possibilities are endless when you start with a solid foundation like this recipe. Happy baking!