If you’re on the hunt for the perfect sweet treat to wow brunch guests or spoil your family, Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls are about to become your new obsession. Imagine classic cinnamon rolls, only softer, fluffier, and even more decadent, thanks to a secret ingredient: instant vanilla pudding mix. Each roll emerges from the oven tender and golden, with ribbons of cinnamon sugar and a luscious vanilla glaze melting into every swirl. These rolls are as delightful to eat as they are to make, transforming your kitchen into a homey bakery and filling the house with irresistible aromas. Whether you serve them for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you crave a cozy indulgence, Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls truly take comfort food to dreamy new heights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the list—each carefully chosen ingredient has a starring role! These essentials come together to create that signature pillowy texture, gooey center, and buttery sweet flavor in every bite of Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix (5.1 oz): This is the magic ingredient that delivers unmatched softness and rich, subtle vanilla flavor throughout the dough.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Adds creaminess and helps the pudding develop that luxurious texture, making the rolls extra moist.
- Active dry yeast (2 packets, about 4 1/2 tsp): Gives the dough its classic rise—make sure it’s fresh for the fluffiest results!
- Warm water (1/2 cup, 110°F): Activates the yeast quickly and evenly, setting you up for success from the start.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the dough and gives it a beautiful golden color once baked.
- Unsalted butter, softened (1/2 cup): Adds rich, buttery goodness and helps keep the dough tender.
- Large eggs (2): Bind everything together while enriching the dough for an irresistible crumb.
- Salt (1 tsp): Balances sweetness and brings out all the lovely flavors.
- All-purpose flour (6 cups, plus more for dusting): The sturdy base for your dough, giving structure and a soft bite.
- Packed brown sugar (1 cup): Brings caramel notes to the filling for extra depth and gooey swirls.
- Ground cinnamon (2 tbsp): A warm and spicy must-have that gives these rolls their classic aroma.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup): Helps the cinnamon-sugar filling adhere beautifully to each layer as you roll them up.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): The base for your sweet, silky glaze.
- Milk (2 tbsp): Loosens the glaze just enough to create that perfect drizzle consistency.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 tsp): Enhances the vanilla notes and makes the icing truly irresistible.
How to Make Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Vanilla Pudding
Start by whisking together the instant vanilla pudding mix and 2 cups of whole milk in a small bowl. After about five minutes in the fridge, the pudding will thicken up, which is key for giving Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls their famous extra-soft crumb. This rich base sets your dough apart from any basic roll recipe—and it’s so easy!
Step 2: Activate the Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, combine your warm (not hot) water and active dry yeast. Let it sit for five minutes until the mixture gets foamy. This tells you the yeast is alive and kicking, ready to help your rolls rise high and bake up super fluffy.
Step 3: Mix the Dough
Add the granulated sugar, softened butter, eggs, salt, your thickened vanilla pudding, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until the batter is smooth, then gradually add the rest of the flour a cup at a time. Before you know it, you’ll have a soft, workable dough that’s just slightly tacky but pulls away from the bowl.
Step 4: Knead and First Rise
Flour your counter and get hands-on by kneading the dough for 5 to 6 minutes. When the dough feels elastic and silky, pop it into a greased bowl. Cover and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size—the anticipation is so worth it!
Step 5: Roll Out and Fill
After your dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it into a generous 24×12-inch rectangle. Brush melted butter over every inch, then sprinkle with an even mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon. This is the moment the heavenly filling for your Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls comes together!
Step 6: Shape and Second Rise
Tightly roll up your rectangle from the long side to create a neat log. Slice into 16 rolls, and nestle them into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover them again and allow another cozy rise for 30 to 40 minutes—this second rise ensures those signature pillow-top rolls.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then pop the pan in for 25 to 30 minutes. The rolls should turn a gorgeous golden brown, filling your kitchen with pure nostalgia and joy. Let them cool just a bit before frosting—though few can resist picking one straight from the pan!
Step 8: Glaze
While the rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and the vanilla extract for a creamy glaze. As soon as the rolls come out, drizzle this sweet concoction over them while still warm, letting it sink right into every swirl of your Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls.
How to Serve Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls
Garnishes
Take your Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls over the top by scattering toasted chopped pecans or walnuts over the glaze, or add a sprinkle of extra cinnamon. For a pretty finish, try a dusting of powdered sugar after the rolls cool slightly, or crown each with a few fresh berries for a burst of color and freshness.
Side Dishes
Balance the sweet, gooey rolls with something bright and tangy, like a fruit salad or a bowl of Greek yogurt. If these rolls are starring at brunch, add crispy bacon, eggs, or a platter of roasted breakfast potatoes to round out the meal and keep everyone coming back for more.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd, arrange the rolls on a large serving platter and let guests pull apart their own. Hosting a special occasion? Serve each roll in a parchment cupcake liner with a drizzle of extra glaze and a decorative swirl of cinnamon. You can even plate them individually with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert spin!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any extra Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate them for up to four days to maintain their pillowy texture and keep that signature cinnamon aroma fresh.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted rolls tightly wrapped in plastic and foil for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm and glaze right before serving for bakery-fresh results.
Reheating
To revive that “just-baked” magic, microwave individual rolls for 15–20 seconds, or warm a whole pan covered with foil in a 300°F oven until soft and lightly heated through. Add a fresh drizzle of glaze for extra decadence.
FAQs
Can I use a different flavor of pudding mix?
Absolutely! While the vanilla pudding is what sets Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls apart, you can experiment with butterscotch or white chocolate pudding mix for unique twists on the classic.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dough and complete the first rise. Then refrigerate overnight right in the baking dish—simply allow a bit more rise time in the morning before baking for super fresh rolls.
Is it possible to make these without eggs?
If you need an egg-free version, substitute each egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or a commercial egg replacer. The result will be slightly different, but the rolls stay soft and delicious.
Can I add raisins or nuts?
Certainly! Sprinkle up to one cup of raisins, chopped pecans, or walnuts over the cinnamon-sugar filling before rolling up if you love extra texture and flavor in your Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls.
What’s the secret to extra gooey rolls?
For stickier, even gooier rolls, pour a few tablespoons of heavy cream or half-and-half over the unbaked rolls just before baking. This gives the centers a wonderfully soft, rich texture!
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls, there’s no better time to treat yourself! These are the kind of rolls that turn ordinary mornings into something special, and they’ll absolutely earn you “best baker” bragging rights. I hope you fall in love with every tender, vanilla-swirled bite—don’t be surprised if they become your new family tradition. Enjoy, and happy baking!
Print
Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus rising time)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 16 rolls
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of vanilla pudding and cinnamon with these homemade soft and fluffy cinnamon rolls. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat anytime.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 package (5.1 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 packets active dry yeast (about 4 1/2 teaspoons)
- 1/2 cup warm water (110°F)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 6 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
Filling:
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Pudding: Whisk together vanilla pudding mix and milk. Refrigerate until thickened.
- Activate Yeast: Dissolve yeast in warm water until foamy. Add sugar, butter, eggs, salt, prepared pudding, and flour. Mix until smooth.
- Knead the Dough: Gradually add remaining flour to form a soft dough. Knead on a floured surface until smooth.
- Rise and Roll: Let dough rise, then roll into a rectangle. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Shape and Bake: Roll dough into a log, slice into rolls, place in a baking dish, and let rise. Bake until golden brown.
- Glaze and Serve: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.
Notes
- Using pudding mix in the dough makes these rolls extra soft and fluffy.
- For a creamier glaze, consider adding cream cheese to the icing mixture.
- The dough can be prepped ahead and refrigerated overnight for fresh baking in the morning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
