Description
Soft, fluffy, and decadently rich, these Vanilla Pudding Cinnamon Rolls are made with a unique vanilla pudding dough, swirled with buttery cinnamon-sugar filling, and topped with a silky cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
For the Rolls:
½ cup warm water
2 tablespoons active dry yeast or 1 1/2 tablespoons instant yeast
2 tablespoons sugar
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
For the Filling:
1 cup (227 g) butter, softened to room temperature
2 cups (424 g) brown sugar
4 teaspoons cinnamon
For the Frosting:
8 ounces (227 g) cream cheese
½ cup (113 g) butter, softened to room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 cups (342 g) confectioner’s sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit until bubbly, about 5–10 minutes.
- Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, prepare the vanilla pudding as per package instructions. Add melted butter, eggs, and salt. Stir in the yeast mixture. Gradually add flour, kneading until a smooth, soft dough forms.
- First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
- Roll and Fill: Roll dough into a 34 x 21-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the butter.
- Shape Rolls: Roll dough tightly into a log. Slice into 1 1/2-inch sections using dental floss or a serrated knife. Arrange rolls on a greased baking sheet, spaced 1 inch apart.
- Second Rise: Cover rolls with a clean towel and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 15–20 minutes until lightly golden.
- Make Frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla and confectioner’s sugar, mixing until combined. Adjust consistency with milk as needed.
- Frost and Serve: Spread frosting over warm rolls before serving.
Notes
Ensure yeast activates by using warm (not hot) water and checking for bubbles.
For easier rolling, chill dough briefly after the first rise.
Leftovers can be refrigerated or frozen; frost just before serving for best results.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 rolls
- Calories: 400 kcal
