Resurrection Rolls Recipe

Easter is a time for reflection, celebration, and family traditions. And what better way to bring the story of Easter to life for your children than through a delicious and interactive recipe? This year, our family decided to try Resurrection Rolls, and let me tell you, they were an absolute hit! From the moment we started prepping, the kids were captivated by the process, eager to participate in each step. The anticipation built as the rolls baked, filling our kitchen with the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon and sugar. And then, the grand reveal – the “empty tomb” inside each golden, puffy roll sparked a wonderful conversation about the true meaning of Easter. Beyond the meaningful symbolism, these Resurrection Rolls are simply delicious. The combination of flaky crescent roll, gooey melted marshmallow, and sweet cinnamon sugar is irresistible. They are incredibly easy to make, even with little helpers, and require minimal ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. If you’re looking for a fun, engaging, and tasty way to share the Easter story with your family, look no further than these delightful Resurrection Rolls. They are sure to become a cherished tradition in your home, year after year.

Ingredients for Resurrection Rolls

The beauty of Resurrection Rolls lies in their simplicity. You only need a handful of readily available ingredients to create this impactful and delicious treat. Let’s delve into each ingredient and understand why they are essential for creating the perfect Resurrection Rolls.

• 1 Can of Refrigerated Crescent Rolls: The foundation of our Resurrection Rolls is a can of refrigerated crescent rolls. These convenient dough triangles are the perfect vessel to encapsulate the marshmallow and bake into light, airy, and slightly flaky rolls. When choosing your crescent rolls, you have a few options. The standard, “original” flavor works wonderfully, providing a slightly tangy base that complements the sweetness of the cinnamon and sugar. For an extra buttery richness, you can opt for “buttery” flavored crescent rolls. These will result in a richer, more decadent roll. Brands like Pillsbury are widely available and consistently deliver quality crescent rolls. If you are feeling adventurous and have a little more time, you could even explore making your own crescent roll dough from scratch for a truly homemade touch. However, for ease and speed, the refrigerated canned variety is perfectly suited for this recipe. Ensure your crescent rolls are fresh and have not expired, as this will affect their rise and overall texture.
• 8 Marshmallows: Marshmallows are the symbolic heart of Resurrection Rolls. They represent Jesus in the tomb. As the rolls bake, the marshmallow melts away, leaving an “empty tomb” inside, illustrating the resurrection story. Standard-sized marshmallows are ideal for this recipe, providing a good balance of melt and flavor. You can use either regular white marshmallows or vanilla-flavored marshmallows for a slightly enhanced vanilla note. Mini marshmallows are not recommended as they tend to melt completely and disappear entirely, rather than creating the desired “empty tomb” effect. Fresh marshmallows are best for this recipe. If your marshmallows are slightly stale, they might not melt as smoothly. So, check the expiration date and ensure they are soft and pliable. For a fun twist, you could even consider using flavored marshmallows, such as strawberry or chocolate, for a subtly different flavor profile in your Resurrection Rolls, although classic vanilla remains the most traditional and versatile choice.
• 4 Tablespoons of Butter: Butter is crucial for both flavor and texture in Resurrection Rolls. Melted butter serves two key purposes in this recipe. Firstly, it acts as a flavorful dip for the marshmallows, adding richness and helping the cinnamon sugar mixture adhere. Secondly, if you choose to brush the tops of the rolls with remaining butter and cinnamon sugar (as suggested), it contributes to a beautiful golden-brown color and an extra layer of buttery goodness. Unsalted butter is generally recommended for baking as it allows you to control the overall salt level in the recipe. If you only have salted butter on hand, you can use it, but you might want to slightly reduce any added salt in other recipes you might be making alongside these rolls. When melting the butter, you can use either a microwave or a stovetop. Microwaving is quick and convenient. Simply place the butter in a microwave-safe dish and melt in short intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted. If melting on the stovetop, use low heat to prevent the butter from burning. Melted butter should be smooth and liquid, ready for dipping.
• 2 Teaspoons of Cinnamon: Cinnamon is the warm, aromatic spice that elevates Resurrection Rolls from simple rolls to a delightful treat. Cinnamon adds a comforting flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of sugar and the flakiness of the crescent rolls. When it comes to cinnamon, quality matters. Freshly ground cinnamon will offer the most vibrant and intense flavor. However, pre-ground cinnamon from reputable brands is perfectly acceptable and convenient for everyday baking. There are different types of cinnamon available, such as Ceylon cinnamon (often labeled “true cinnamon”) and Cassia cinnamon. Cassia cinnamon is the more common and readily available type, with a bolder, spicier flavor. Ceylon cinnamon is milder and sweeter, with more delicate notes. For Resurrection Rolls, either type will work well. If you are a cinnamon enthusiast, you might experiment with both to see which you prefer. Two teaspoons of cinnamon provide a good level of flavor for this recipe. If you prefer a more intense cinnamon flavor, you can slightly increase the amount, but be mindful not to overpower the other flavors.
• 3 Tablespoons of Sugar: Sugar is the essential sweetener in Resurrection Rolls, providing the perfect counterpoint to the slightly savory crescent rolls and the warm spice of cinnamon. Granulated white sugar is the standard choice for this recipe and works beautifully. It provides a clean sweetness that allows the cinnamon flavor to shine. You can also experiment with other types of sugar for subtle variations. For example, using light brown sugar instead of granulated sugar will add a hint of molasses flavor and a slightly softer texture to the cinnamon sugar coating. Dark brown sugar will intensify the molasses flavor even further. If you prefer a less refined sugar option, you could use coconut sugar or turbinado sugar, which will impart a slightly caramel-like note. However, for the classic Resurrection Roll flavor, granulated white sugar is the most traditional and effective choice. Three tablespoons of sugar provides a good level of sweetness for this recipe. If you prefer a sweeter roll, you can slightly increase the amount of sugar in the cinnamon sugar mixture.

Instructions: Baking Your Resurrection Rolls

Creating Resurrection Rolls is a fun and straightforward process, perfect for getting the whole family involved. Follow these detailed instructions to bake your own batch of symbolic and delicious Easter treats:

1. Preheat Your Oven to 375 Degrees Fahrenheit: The first and most crucial step in baking any recipe is preheating your oven. Setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) ensures that it reaches the correct temperature before you place the Resurrection Rolls inside. This precise temperature is essential for even baking and achieving the desired golden-brown color and puffy texture of the crescent rolls. Allow your oven ample time to preheat fully. Most ovens have an indicator light that turns off when the set temperature is reached, but it’s always a good idea to give it a few extra minutes to ensure it’s thoroughly heated. Using an oven thermometer can also help you verify the accuracy of your oven temperature.
2. Melt Butter in a Small, Shallow Dish: Next, we prepare the melted butter for dipping the marshmallows. Take your 4 tablespoons of butter and place them in a small, shallow dish. A shallow dish is ideal as it makes dipping the marshmallows easier. You can melt the butter using either a microwave or a stovetop. For microwave melting, place the dish in the microwave and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the butter is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the butter, as it can splatter. If using a stovetop, place the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Melt gently, stirring occasionally, until smooth. Once melted, set the dish of butter aside.
3. In Another Shallow Dish, Stir Together Sugar and Cinnamon: Now, we prepare the cinnamon sugar mixture that will coat the marshmallows. In a separate small, shallow dish, combine the 3 tablespoons of sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon. Use a spoon or fork to stir the sugar and cinnamon together thoroughly until they are well combined and the cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout the sugar. This mixture will provide the sweet and spiced coating for the marshmallows, adding flavor and creating a delightful caramelized crust on the Resurrection Rolls as they bake. Set this dish of cinnamon sugar aside next to the melted butter.
4. Roll Out Crescent Rolls and Divide Along Perforations: Carefully open your can of refrigerated crescent rolls. Gently unroll the dough onto a clean, flat surface, such as a cutting board or countertop. The dough will be pre-scored with perforations, making it easy to separate into individual crescent triangles. Divide the dough along these perforations to create 8 separate crescent roll triangles. Try to handle the dough gently to avoid tearing it. If the dough seems a bit sticky, you can lightly dust your work surface with a small amount of flour.
5. Dip a Marshmallow in the Butter, Then the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture: This is where the fun begins! Take one marshmallow and dip it into the melted butter, ensuring it is lightly coated on all sides. The butter helps the cinnamon sugar adhere to the marshmallow. Immediately after dipping in butter, transfer the buttered marshmallow to the dish of cinnamon sugar. Roll the marshmallow around in the cinnamon sugar mixture, coating it completely on all sides. The marshmallow should be generously covered in the sweet and spiced mixture.
6. Place the Cinnamon Sugar Coated Marshmallow in the Center of a Crescent Triangle: Take one of the crescent roll triangles and place it on your work surface. Position the cinnamon sugar coated marshmallow in the very center of the crescent triangle, on the wider end of the triangle. This placement ensures that the marshmallow is fully enclosed within the dough as you roll it up.
7. Fold Up the Top Two Corners Then Roll the Crescent Up to the Skinny End: Now, we begin to wrap the marshmallow in the crescent dough. Take the two top corners of the wider end of the crescent triangle and fold them over the marshmallow, bringing them together to meet in the center. Then, gently roll the crescent dough up towards the skinny tip of the triangle, encasing the marshmallow completely within the roll. Think of it like rolling a mini cinnamon roll.
8. Seal Up All the Edges Super Tight, Making Sure There Are No Holes: This is a crucial step for preventing the marshmallow from leaking out during baking. Once you have rolled up the crescent, carefully pinch and seal all the edges of the dough together, ensuring there are no openings or gaps. Pay particular attention to sealing the ends and the seam where the dough overlaps. A tightly sealed roll will keep the marshmallow contained and create the desired “empty tomb” effect. Repeat steps 5-8 with the remaining crescent triangles and marshmallows, creating 8 Resurrection Rolls in total.
9. Place Crescents on a Rimmed Baking Sheet Lined with Parchment Paper: Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents the Resurrection Rolls from sticking to the baking sheet and makes for easy cleanup. A rimmed baking sheet is important to contain any potential butter or sugar runoff during baking. Arrange the assembled Resurrection Rolls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow for even baking and air circulation.
10. If Desired, Mix Together Remaining Butter and Cinnamon Sugar and Brush it on Top of the Crescents: If you have any melted butter and cinnamon sugar mixture remaining, you can create an optional glaze for the tops of the Resurrection Rolls. In a small bowl, mix together any leftover melted butter and cinnamon sugar. Using a pastry brush or a spoon, gently brush this mixture over the tops of the unbaked rolls. This will add extra flavor, sweetness, and a beautiful caramelized sheen to the finished rolls. This step is optional but highly recommended for enhanced flavor and visual appeal.
11. Place in the Oven and Bake for 11-13 Minutes or Until Crescents are Light Golden Brown and Puffy: Carefully place the baking sheet with the Resurrection Rolls into the preheated oven. Bake for 11-13 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are light golden brown and puffy. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent them from over-browning. The rolls are done when they are puffed up, have a light golden-brown color, and the crescent dough is cooked through. The marshmallow inside will melt and disappear during baking, creating the “empty tomb.”
12. Allow to Cool Slightly Before Serving: Once the Resurrection Rolls are baked, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Allow the rolls to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving. This slight cooling period allows them to set up slightly and makes them easier to handle. Be cautious when biting into them initially, as the melted sugar inside can be quite hot. Serve warm and enjoy the symbolic and delicious Resurrection Rolls!

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of your treats can be helpful, especially when enjoying them as part of a balanced diet. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutrition facts for one serving of Resurrection Rolls (based on 8 servings per recipe):

• Servings: 8
• Calories: Approximately 190 kcal per serving

Detailed Breakdown (Approximate):

• Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30 grams per serving. This primarily comes from the crescent roll dough and the sugar coating.
• Fat: Approximately 7-9 grams per serving. This is mainly from the butter and the fats present in the crescent roll dough.
• Protein: Approximately 2-3 grams per serving. Crescent rolls provide a small amount of protein.
• Sugar: Approximately 15-20 grams per serving. This is primarily from the granulated sugar coating and the marshmallow.

Important Considerations:

• These are estimates: Nutritional values can vary slightly depending on the specific brands of ingredients used and the exact measurements.
• Treat, not a staple: Resurrection Rolls are a sweet treat and should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced dietary pattern. They are not intended to be a primary source of nutrition.
• Calorie awareness: While 190 calories per roll might seem moderate, consuming multiple rolls can quickly add up in terms of calorie and sugar intake.
• Focus on the experience: Remember that Resurrection Rolls are about more than just nutrition; they are about creating a meaningful and enjoyable experience with family, especially during Easter.

If you are concerned about the sugar content, you could consider slightly reducing the amount of sugar in the cinnamon sugar mixture or exploring alternative sweeteners in very small amounts, although this might alter the traditional flavor profile. However, for a special occasion treat, the standard recipe offers a delightful balance of flavor and symbolism.

Preparation Time

One of the great advantages of Resurrection Rolls is their speed and ease of preparation. This recipe is perfect for busy families or when you need a quick and impactful Easter activity.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 11 minutes
• Total Time: 16 minutes

Breakdown of Time:

• Prep Time (5 minutes): This includes gathering your ingredients, preheating the oven, melting the butter, mixing the cinnamon sugar, opening the crescent roll can, and dividing the dough. The dipping and rolling process is also included in this prep time estimate as it is quite quick.
• Cook Time (11 minutes): This is the baking time in the oven. The rolls bake for approximately 11-13 minutes, depending on your oven and desired level of browning.
• Total Time (16 minutes): From start to finish, including preparation and baking, Resurrection Rolls take a mere 16 minutes. This makes them an incredibly efficient and satisfying recipe, perfect for a last-minute Easter activity or a quick dessert.

The minimal preparation time makes Resurrection Rolls an ideal recipe to involve children in the kitchen. They can easily help with dipping the marshmallows, rolling up the crescents, and brushing on the optional glaze. The quick cook time also means that you can enjoy these warm and symbolic treats in a short amount of time, making them perfect for Easter morning breakfast, a post-dinner dessert, or an afternoon snack.

How to Serve Resurrection Rolls

Resurrection Rolls are best enjoyed warm and fresh from the oven, allowing you to experience their full flavor and delightful texture. Here are some ideas on how to serve and enhance your Resurrection Roll experience:

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve Warm: Resurrection Rolls are at their absolute best when served warm, ideally within minutes of coming out of the oven. The warm rolls offer a comforting aroma and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Slightly Cooled is Also Great: If you need to wait a bit before serving, allowing them to cool slightly is still perfectly acceptable. They will still be delicious, though the marshmallow “empty tomb” might be less dramatically gooey.
• With a Glass of Milk or Juice: Pair your warm Resurrection Rolls with a cold glass of milk or juice. Milk complements the sweetness and cinnamon spice beautifully. Orange juice or apple juice are also refreshing and delightful pairings.
• As Part of Easter Brunch: Resurrection Rolls make a wonderful addition to an Easter brunch spread. They offer a sweet and symbolic element alongside savory brunch dishes.
• As a Dessert After Easter Dinner: These rolls are a perfect light and meaningful dessert to enjoy after your Easter dinner. They are not overly heavy and provide a sweet ending to the meal.
• Fun Easter Morning Breakfast: Start your Easter morning with a special and symbolic breakfast of Resurrection Rolls. They are a festive and delicious way to begin the day, especially when sharing the Easter story with children.

Optional Garnishes and Enhancements:

• Dust with Powdered Sugar: For a simple and elegant touch, dust the cooled Resurrection Rolls with powdered sugar just before serving. This adds a delicate sweetness and visual appeal.
• Drizzle with a Simple Glaze: You can make a quick glaze by whisking together powdered sugar with a small amount of milk or lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled rolls for added sweetness and flavor. A vanilla glaze would be particularly delicious.
• Serve with Fresh Fruit: Balance the sweetness of the Resurrection Rolls by serving them alongside fresh fruit. Berries like strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries, or sliced bananas or peaches, offer a refreshing and healthy contrast.
• Whipped Cream or Ice Cream (For Dessert): If serving as a dessert, you can elevate Resurrection Rolls further by topping them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This adds extra richness and indulgence.

Presentation Ideas:

• Arrange on a Platter: Arrange the warm Resurrection Rolls on a pretty platter or serving dish for an attractive presentation.
• Serve in Baskets: For a rustic and charming touch, serve the rolls in small baskets lined with napkins.
• Individual Plates: Place one or two Resurrection Rolls on individual plates for each person, especially if serving as a dessert course.

No matter how you choose to serve them, Resurrection Rolls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser and a meaningful addition to your Easter celebrations.

Additional Tips for Perfect Resurrection Rolls

To ensure your Resurrection Rolls turn out perfectly every time, here are five additional tips to keep in mind:

1. Don’t Overfill with Marshmallow: While it might be tempting to use extra-large marshmallows or stuff the crescent rolls with too much marshmallow, resist the urge. Overfilling can lead to marshmallow leakage during baking, resulting in messy and less visually appealing rolls. Stick to one standard-sized marshmallow per crescent roll for the best results.
2. Seal Edges Tightly: Properly sealing the edges of the crescent dough is crucial to prevent marshmallow escape and ensure even baking. Take the time to carefully pinch and seal all seams and edges of the rolled crescents. This will keep the marshmallow securely inside and allow the rolls to puff up nicely without any gooey leaks. Double-check for any openings before placing them in the oven.
3. Use Quality Cinnamon for Enhanced Flavor: The cinnamon sugar coating is a key flavor component of Resurrection Rolls. Using high-quality cinnamon will significantly elevate the taste. Opt for fresh cinnamon from a reputable brand or consider using freshly ground cinnamon for the most intense and aromatic flavor. The difference in flavor will be noticeable and well worth the small investment in quality cinnamon.
4. Don’t Overbake for Soft Rolls: Overbaking can lead to dry and less tender crescent rolls. Keep a close eye on the rolls during the last few minutes of baking. They are done when they are light golden brown and puffy. Remove them from the oven as soon as they reach this stage. Slightly underbaked rolls are preferable to overbaked ones, as they will remain softer and more enjoyable.
5. Involve Kids in the Process for a Fun Family Activity: Resurrection Rolls are a fantastic recipe to make with children. The process is simple, engaging, and perfectly themed for Easter. Involve kids in age-appropriate tasks such as dipping marshmallows, rolling up the crescents, and brushing on the glaze. This makes baking Resurrection Rolls a fun family activity and a wonderful way to teach children about the Easter story in an interactive and memorable way. Plus, kids are always more excited to eat food they helped prepare!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Resurrection Rolls

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Resurrection Rolls, to help you troubleshoot and achieve baking success:

Q1: Can I use different types of rolls instead of refrigerated crescent rolls?

A: While refrigerated crescent rolls are the most common and convenient choice for Resurrection Rolls, you can experiment with other types of dough for variations. Puff pastry could be used for a flakier, richer roll, but it might require slightly different baking times. You could also try using homemade crescent roll dough if you prefer a from-scratch approach. However, keep in mind that using different doughs may alter the texture and overall result of the rolls. For the classic Resurrection Roll experience, refrigerated crescent rolls are highly recommended.

Q2: Can I use mini marshmallows instead of standard-sized marshmallows?

A: While you can use mini marshmallows, it is generally not recommended for Resurrection Rolls. Mini marshmallows tend to melt completely and disappear during baking, leaving very little or no “empty tomb” effect inside the roll. Standard-sized marshmallows are ideal as they melt sufficiently to create the symbolic empty space while still leaving some gooeyness and flavor. If you only have mini marshmallows on hand, you would need to use several per roll, and the result may not be as visually impactful.

Q3: Can I add other spices to the cinnamon sugar mixture for extra flavor?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and add other spices to the cinnamon sugar mixture to customize the flavor of your Resurrection Rolls. A pinch of ground nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom would complement the cinnamon beautifully and add warmth and depth of flavor. Start with small amounts, about 1/4 teaspoon of each spice, and adjust to your taste preference. You can also add a touch of ground ginger for a subtle spicy kick. Experimenting with different spice combinations can create unique and delicious variations of Resurrection Rolls.

Q4: How do I store leftover Resurrection Rolls and how long do they last?

A: Resurrection Rolls are best enjoyed fresh and warm on the day they are baked. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Keep in mind that they will be softest on the first day and may become slightly drier over time. To revive them slightly, you can gently warm them in a low oven (around 200°F or 95°C) for a few minutes before serving. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make them rubbery. For the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to bake only the amount you plan to consume within a day or two.

Q5: Can I prepare Resurrection Rolls ahead of time and bake them later?

A: While Resurrection Rolls are best baked fresh, you can prepare them partially ahead of time to save time on the day you plan to bake them. You can assemble the rolls – dipping the marshmallows in butter and cinnamon sugar and rolling them in the crescent dough – and then store them unbaked in the refrigerator for up to a few hours. Make sure to place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover them loosely with plastic wrap. When you are ready to bake, simply remove them from the refrigerator and bake as directed in the recipe. Adding a few extra minutes to the baking time may be necessary if baking directly from the refrigerator. However, for optimal results, baking them closer to serving time is always recommended.

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