When it comes to desserts that are both comforting and delicious, few can rival the allure of bread pudding. Traditionally made from stale bread soaked in a sweet, spiced custard, bread pudding is a time-honored treat with a rich, custardy texture and a hint of nostalgia. But what if you could elevate this classic dish by using something a bit more indulgent? Enter canned cinnamon rolls—a staple of many breakfast tables that, with a few simple additions, can be transformed into a show-stopping bread pudding.
Why Cinnamon Rolls?
Cinnamon rolls are a fantastic base for bread pudding because they come pre-seasoned with cinnamon and often feature a sweet glaze. This means that your bread pudding will be imbued with a rich, spiced flavor from the get-go. The dough in canned cinnamon rolls is already soft and buttery, which translates perfectly into the custardy texture that defines great bread pudding. By using cinnamon rolls, you’re not only simplifying the preparation but also enhancing the flavor profile of your dessert with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to turn your canned cinnamon rolls into a delightful bread pudding:
- 4 cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts, optional)
- Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing the pan)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into quarters. Place the pieces into the greased baking dish, spreading them out evenly.
- Make the Custard:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until well combined. This mixture will serve as the custard that soaks into the cinnamon rolls.
- Combine and Soak:
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish. Gently press down on the rolls to ensure they are well-coated and soaking up the custard. If you’re using raisins or dried cranberries, sprinkle them over the top. For added texture and flavor, you can also sprinkle chopped nuts.
- Bake the Bread Pudding:
- Allow the cinnamon rolls to soak in the custard mixture for about 10-15 minutes. This will give the rolls time to absorb some of the custard.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean, though it may have some moist crumbs.
- Add the Icing:
- While the bread pudding is baking, prepare the icing from the canned cinnamon rolls. Once the pudding is out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the icing over the top for an extra touch of sweetness and a beautiful finish.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the bread pudding to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This dessert is delicious served warm, either on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Why This Recipe Works
Using canned cinnamon rolls for bread pudding not only simplifies the preparation but also enhances the flavor. The cinnamon rolls are pre-flavored with spices and come with icing that caramelizes as it bakes, creating a deliciously sweet and spiced pudding. The combination of the rich custard with the soft, sweet dough creates a dessert that is both decadent and comforting.
Tips and Variations
Feel free to experiment with different add-ins or toppings to customize your bread pudding. Fresh fruit like apple slices or berries can add a burst of flavor, while a sprinkle of coarse sugar before baking can create a delightful crunch. You can also substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat milk for a lighter version.
In summary, transforming canned cinnamon rolls into bread pudding is a brilliant and easy way to elevate a beloved dessert. With minimal effort, you can create a dessert that’s both rich and comforting, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a weekend brunch or a special holiday gathering, this cinnamon roll bread pudding is sure to impress and delight.