There is something utterly magical about waking up to the scent of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, but these are not just any cinnamon rolls. This Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls Recipe takes the classic treat to a whole new level of softness and flavor thanks to the secret ingredient: instant vanilla pudding. It creates a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs beautifully with the rich cinnamon-spiced filling and the luscious cream cheese frosting that tops it all off. Whether you’re making these for a special brunch or treating yourself on a cozy weekend, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug in pastry form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls Recipe plays a vital role in building that perfect balance of sweetness, softness, and spice. From activating the yeast to creating the creamy frosting, these simple staples come together to create something truly special.
- ½ cup warm water: This helps activate the yeast, essential for fluffy, risen dough.
- 2 tablespoons active dry yeast or 1 ½ tablespoons instant yeast: The magic starter that makes your rolls rise beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness to the dough.
- 3.5-ounce package instant vanilla pudding: Prepared according to package directions, it brings moistness and that signature vanilla flavor to the dough.
- ½ cup (113 g) butter, melted: Adds richness and tenderness to the dough.
- 2 large eggs: Help bind ingredients and enrich the dough’s texture and color.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 6 to 7 cups (852 to 994 g) all-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough – adding structure and giving that perfect chewiness.
- 1 cup (227 g) butter, softened to room temperature: Used for spreading inside the rolls, ensuring every bite is buttery and indulgent.
- 2 cups (424 g) brown sugar: Blended with cinnamon for the rich, caramelized filling.
- 4 teaspoons cinnamon: The heartwarming spice that defines the classic cinnamon roll flavor.
- 8 ounces (227 g) cream cheese: For the signature tangy, creamy frosting that takes these rolls over the top.
- ½ cup (113 g) butter, softened to room temperature: Combined with cream cheese to create a smooth, dreamy frosting.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla: Enhances the sweetness and complements the cinnamon perfectly.
- 3 cups (342 g) confectioner’s sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for that perfect spreadable consistency.
- 2-3 tablespoons milk: Adjusts frosting texture to be silky and easy to spread.
How to Make Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Activate Yeast
Start by combining warm water, yeast, and sugar in a small bowl. This simple step awakens the yeast and ensures it’s bubbly and alive, which is crucial for that light, fluffy dough you’re aiming for. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until you see frothy bubbles forming on the surface.
Step 2: Prepare Dough
Prepare your instant vanilla pudding according to the package instructions, creating a flavorful base for the dough. In a large mixing bowl, add the pudding, melted butter, eggs, and salt. Stir everything together before gradually incorporating the yeast mixture. Finally, add the flour a cup at a time, kneading just until you have a smooth, soft dough that’s slightly tacky but not sticky.
Step 3: First Rise
Transfer your dough to a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size. This usually takes about an hour and is the perfect time to prepare the filling ingredients.
Step 4: Roll and Fill
Once risen, roll your dough out on a floured surface into a large 34 by 21-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter generously over the entire surface, then evenly sprinkle the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture. This blend will infuse each roll with those classic sweet, spicy flavors everyone loves.
Step 5: Shape Rolls
Roll the dough up tightly from the longer side into a log. Using dental floss or a serrated knife, cut the log into 1½-inch thick slices. Placing the slices on a greased baking sheet with about an inch of space between each lets them rise evenly and bake properly.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the rolls with a clean towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes, until doubled. This second rise is crucial—it ensures the rolls stay tender and fluffy after baking.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 15 to 20 minutes or until they turn a beautiful light golden brown on top. The aroma filling your kitchen is pure bliss at this point.
Step 8: Make Frosting
While the rolls bake, prepare your cream cheese frosting by beating together cream cheese and softened butter until silky smooth. Add vanilla and confectioner’s sugar, mixing until combined. Adjust the frosting consistency with a splash of milk so it spreads effortlessly over warm rolls.
Step 9: Frost and Serve
As soon as your Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls come out of the oven, slather them with the luscious cream cheese frosting. The warmth melts the frosting into the nooks and crannies, creating the ultimate indulgent treat.
How to Serve Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Add a light dusting of cinnamon or a few toasted pecans on top of the frosting for a bit of extra texture and visual appeal. Fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
Serve these cinnamon rolls alongside a fresh fruit salad or a cup of rich coffee to balance the sweetness. A glass of cold milk or hot chai tea also pairs beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the rolls in a tiered cake stand for a brunch centerpiece or place them in individual ramekins for a charming, single-serving presentation. You can also drizzle them with flavored icing like maple or orange glaze for something a little different.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is fine but bring them to room temperature before serving to restore softness.
Freezing
Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls freeze beautifully! Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat rolls wrapped in foil in a 300°F oven for about 10 to 15 minutes to refresh that just-baked softness. You can also warm them in the microwave for 20-second bursts, but watch carefully to avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I make the dough the night before?
Absolutely! After mixing the dough, cover it tightly and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight. The slow fermentation enhances flavor and allows you to bake fresh rolls in the morning.
What if I don’t have instant vanilla pudding?
You can make a quick vanilla custard from scratch or substitute with vanilla-flavored yogurt, but the instant pudding works best to give the dough its signature moist texture and distinct flavor.
Can I use a different type of flour?
All-purpose flour is ideal for this recipe, but you can experiment with bread flour for a chewier texture. Avoid whole wheat flour unless you want a denser roll.
How do I prevent the rolls from drying out?
Don’t overbake and store them well. Make sure to cover with frosting while still warm and keep leftovers airtight to maintain that tender crumb.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the filling?
Definitely! Adding chopped pecans, walnuts, or raisins to the cinnamon sugar filling is a delicious twist and adds wonderful texture.
Final Thoughts
There is truly nothing like pulling warm, gooey cinnamon rolls fresh from the oven, especially when made using this Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls Recipe. The addition of vanilla pudding transforms ordinary rolls into a soft, tender, and flavorful breakfast treat that will become an instant favorite. I encourage you to gather your ingredients, get your hands in the dough, and experience the joy of baking these delightful rolls yourself. Your mornings will never be the same!
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Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
Description
These Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite, featuring a soft and fluffy dough enriched with instant vanilla pudding for extra tenderness. Swirled with a buttery cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a luscious cream cheese vanilla frosting, they are perfect for a comforting breakfast or dessert treat.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- ½ cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons active dry yeast or 1 ½ tablespoons instant yeast
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 (3.5-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding, prepared according to package directions
- ½ cup (113 g) butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 6 to 7 cups (852 to 994 g) all-purpose flour
Filling Ingredients
- 1 cup (227 g) butter, softened to room temperature
- 2 cups (424 g) brown sugar
- 4 teaspoons cinnamon
Frosting Ingredients
- 8 ounces (227 g) cream cheese
- ½ cup (113 g) butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups (342 g) confectioner’s sugar
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes bubbly, indicating the yeast is activated.
- Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, prepare the instant vanilla pudding according to package directions. To the pudding, add melted butter, eggs, and salt, stirring to combine. Then stir in the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, kneading until a smooth and soft dough forms.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
- Roll and Fill: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 34 x 21-inch rectangle. Evenly spread the softened butter over the dough. Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl, then sprinkle this mixture uniformly over the buttered dough.
- Shape Rolls: Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Using dental floss or a serrated knife, slice the log into 1½-inch sections. Arrange the rolls spaced 1 inch apart on a greased baking sheet.
- Second Rise: Cover the arranged rolls with a clean towel and let them rise until doubled in size, about 30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 15 to 20 minutes until they turn lightly golden.
- Make Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and confectioner’s sugar. Mix well until fully combined and creamy. Adjust the frosting consistency with 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk as needed.
- Frost and Serve: Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls before serving for a delicious finishing touch.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the water used to activate the yeast is warm but not hot, ideally between 105°F to 115°F.
- Using dental floss to slice the rolls helps maintain their shape without squashing them.
- You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight for enhanced flavor.
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.
- This recipe yields approximately 24 cinnamon rolls, perfect for a large gathering or to freeze and enjoy later.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Baked Goods
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
