Name: Creamy Resurrection Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 2 h
Ingredients: 1 cup warm milk (110°F); 1 packet active dry yeast; ¼ cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg; 3½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 12 large marshmallows; ¼ cup butter, melted (for brushing); ½ cup cinnamon sugar mixture

Creamy Resurrection Rolls: Heavenly Pillows of Sweetness & Symbolism 🥐✨🙏

1. Introduction

These Creamy Resurrection Rolls are more than just a delicious treat – they’re a beautiful Easter tradition that tells the story of Christ’s resurrection in edible form. With their flaky exterior and melt-in-your-mouth marshmallow center, these easy resurrection rolls recipe will become your family’s new favorite holiday tradition. Perfect for your Easter brunch or as a sweet addition to your holiday dinner spread.

Freshly baked Creamy Resurrection Rolls with glaze, perfect for Easter brunch.

The magic happens when the marshmallow “disappears” during baking, leaving behind a sweet, creamy center – just like the empty tomb on Easter morning. This easy resurrection rolls recipe requires just 7 simple ingredients and about 2 hours from start to finish, including rising time. If you’re looking for more baking inspiration, be sure to check out our other sweet treats!

2. Ingredients

For this easy resurrection rolls recipe, you’ll need these pantry staples that you probably already have on hand:

1 cup warm milk (110°F) – whole milk works best for richness
1 packet active dry yeast – the magic ingredient that makes them rise
¼ cup granulated sugar – for just the right amount of sweetness
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted – adds moisture and flavor
1 large egg – helps bind everything together
3½ cups all-purpose flour – the foundation of our dough
1 teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors
12 large marshmallows – the surprise center that disappears
¼ cup butter, melted (for brushing) – creates that golden crust
½ cup cinnamon sugar mixture – the perfect finishing touch

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm milk (about 110°F – too hot will kill the yeast!), yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. This activates the yeast, which is crucial for getting light, fluffy rolls in this easy resurrection rolls recipe. If you’re new to working with yeast, don’t worry – it’s easier than you think! For more yeast bread techniques, check out this helpful resource.

Warm milk and butter mixture with yeast and sugar for Creamy Resurrection Rolls dough.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the yeast mixture with melted butter, egg, flour, and salt. Mix on medium speed for 5 minutes until a smooth dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but pull away from the sides of the bowl. If you don’t have a stand mixer, you can knead by hand for about 8-10 minutes. This is one of those sweet dough recipes that’s worth the extra effort!

Stand mixer combining ingredients for Creamy Resurrection Rolls dough.

Step 3: Roll and Cut the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll into a 12×18 inch rectangle. Cut into 12 equal squares (about 4.5 inches each). This easy resurrection rolls recipe works best when all pieces are uniform in size. Pro tip: Use a pizza cutter for clean, even cuts. While you’re working with dough, you might want to check out our other baking recipes for more inspiration!

Rolling out dough for Creamy Resurrection Rolls on a floured counter.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Dip each marshmallow in melted butter, then roll in cinnamon sugar. Place one marshmallow in the center of each dough square and pinch the edges tightly to seal (this is crucial to prevent marshmallow leakage!). Place seam-side down in a greased baking dish, cover with a clean towel, and let rise for 1 hour in a warm place. Bake at 375°F for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. The heavenly aroma will fill your kitchen! These make a wonderful addition to any brunch menu.

Buttered marshmallows coated in cinnamon sugar for Creamy Resurrection Rolls filling.

4. Tips for Perfect Resurrection Rolls

After testing this easy resurrection rolls recipe many times, here are my professional tips for success:

Use fresh yeast for optimal rising – check the expiration date!
Don’t skip the rising time – it’s essential for light, fluffy texture
Seal the dough tightly around the marshmallow to prevent leakage (pinch well!)
Bake until deep golden brown for maximum flavor development
Serve warm for the gooey, creamy center that kids and adults love
For extra richness, brush with butter right after baking

5. Variations

While the classic version is delicious, you can customize your easy resurrection rolls recipe:

Add 1 tablespoon orange zest to the dough for bright, citrusy flavor
Use flavored marshmallows like vanilla or caramel for different tastes
Drizzle with cream cheese glaze after baking for extra decadence
Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts before baking for crunch
Add 1 teaspoon cardamom to the cinnamon sugar for exotic flavor
Make mini versions using small marshmallows for bite-sized treats

6. Serving Suggestions

These Creamy Resurrection Rolls are versatile enough for many occasions:

Easter morning breakfast with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit
Church potlucks – they always disappear quickly!
Sunday brunch gatherings alongside fresh salads
Teaching children about Easter – the edible lesson is unforgettable
Gift baskets for neighbors – wrap in pretty cellophane with a ribbon
Afternoon tea treats – pair with your favorite herbal tea
Dessert after your Easter dinner

7. Storage Instructions

To keep your easy resurrection rolls recipe fresh:

At room temperature for 1 day in an airtight container (best when fresh)
In the refrigerator for up to 3 days – reheat before serving
Reheat in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to refresh the texture
Freeze unbaked rolls for up to 1 month – perfect for meal prep
To freeze baked rolls, wrap individually in plastic then foil
Thaw frozen baked rolls at room temperature, then warm before serving

8. The Easter Story Connection

The beautiful symbolism in this easy resurrection rolls recipe makes it special for faith-based families:

The marshmallow represents Jesus’ body – pure and white
The cinnamon sugar symbolizes the oils and spices used in burial
The dough is like the tomb – wrapping the body completely
The empty center after baking shows the resurrection – the tomb is empty!
The golden brown color represents new life and hope
The sweetness reminds us of God’s love and grace

9. Conclusion

This easy resurrection rolls recipe creates a memorable Easter tradition that combines delicious flavors with meaningful symbolism. The contrast of the crisp, golden exterior with the sweet, creamy center disappearing during baking makes these rolls as magical to eat as they are meaningful. Whether you’re making them for your family or sharing them with your community, these Creamy Resurrection Rolls will become a cherished part of your Easter celebrations for years to come. For more holiday inspiration, check out my about page to learn about my culinary journey, or if you’re interested in working together on special projects. Don’t forget to pair these with some comforting soups or hearty main dishes for a complete holiday meal!