Family Favorite Resurrection Rolls: A Heavenly Easter Treat That Tells a Story ✝️🥐✨
1. Introduction
Resurrection Rolls are more than just a delicious pastry—they’re a meaningful Easter tradition that beautifully illustrates the story of Jesus’ resurrection. These sweet, fluffy rolls hide a marshmallow inside that disappears during baking, leaving behind a hollow center—a perfect edible metaphor for the empty tomb. Whether you’re looking for a fun Easter activity with kids or a special treat to share with family, this resurrection rolls recipe is sure to become a cherished part of your holiday celebrations.
If you enjoy baking special treats for holidays, you might also love our collection of baking recipes that includes everything from classic cakes to festive breads. These resurrection rolls make a wonderful addition to any Easter brunch spread alongside other favorites like our peanut butter cake with peanut butter frosting.
2. Ingredients
To make these meaningful resurrection rolls, you’ll need simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry:
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough (the base for our edible “tomb”)
- 8 large marshmallows (representing Jesus’ body)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (symbolizing the burial oils)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for sweetness and texture)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (adding warm spice flavor)
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting (makes them look extra special)
For more breakfast inspiration beyond Easter, check out our breakfast and brunch recipes collection.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Tools
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon until well combined. Have your melted butter ready in another small bowl. This resurrection rolls recipe comes together quickly, so having everything prepared makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
If you’re looking for more family-friendly recipes that tell a story, try our smoky jalapeño popper meatloaf for a fun twist on a classic dish.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
Unroll the crescent dough carefully and separate it into triangles along the perforated lines. If using crescent roll sheets, cut into 8 equal rectangles using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. This dough represents the linen cloths that wrapped Jesus’ body. As you work with the dough, you can share the Easter story with children, making this resurrection rolls recipe both delicious and educational. The process of rolling out the dough is similar to preparing our Italian stuffed cabbage rolls, where careful wrapping creates something special.
Step 3: Add the Marshmallow
Dip each marshmallow completely in the melted butter, ensuring it’s fully coated, then roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly covered. Place one prepared marshmallow at the wide end of each dough triangle. The marshmallow represents Jesus’ body, while the butter and sugar symbolize the oils and spices used in burial. Carefully wrap the dough around the marshmallow, starting at the wide end and rolling toward the point, pinching all edges firmly to seal completely—this is crucial to prevent leaks during baking and maintain the surprise of the empty “tomb.”
For more delicious rolled recipes, explore our dinner recipes section featuring various rolled and stuffed dishes.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the sealed rolls on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for expansion. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and puffed. As they bake, the marshmallows will melt, leaving a hollow center—just like the empty tomb on Easter morning! The aroma of cinnamon and butter will fill your kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Let cool slightly before serving, as the melted marshmallow center will be very hot. For extra sweetness and a beautiful presentation, dust with powdered sugar just before serving using a fine mesh sieve.
If you enjoy baking sweet treats, you’ll love browsing our dessert recipes for more inspiration.
4. Tips for Perfect Resurrection Rolls
- For best results, use fresh marshmallows—stale ones might not melt properly and could leave chewy bits
- Make sure to completely seal the dough around the marshmallow to prevent leaks—pinch all seams thoroughly
- If the rolls brown too quickly, tent with foil during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar mixture
- Consider using homemade crescent dough for an extra special touch—Allrecipes has a great version
- Let the rolls cool for 5 minutes before biting into them to avoid burns from the hot melted marshmallow
5. Variations to Try
While the classic resurrection rolls recipe is perfect as is, you can experiment with these creative variations:
- Use puff pastry instead of crescent dough for a flakier, more delicate texture
- Add a drop of vanilla extract or almond extract to the melted butter for enhanced flavor
- Try different sizes of marshmallows—mini ones make adorable bite-sized treats perfect for kids
- For a richer version, brush the baked rolls with honey butter (mix 1 tbsp honey with 2 tbsp melted butter)
- Add orange zest to the cinnamon sugar for a bright citrus note
- For a chocolate twist, roll the marshmallows in cocoa powder mixed with sugar
- Make a savory version with cheese-filled dough and garlic butter for an Easter appetizer
For more recipe variation ideas, check out our beef recipes and chicken recipes sections where we offer multiple ways to prepare classic dishes.
6. Serving Suggestions
These meaningful treats are perfect for various Easter occasions:
- Easter morning breakfast served with fresh fruit and scrambled eggs
- As part of an Easter brunch buffet alongside quiche and fresh juices
- Sunday school or church gatherings as an edible lesson
- Gift boxes for neighbors and friends—package 2-3 rolls in cellophane with a ribbon
- Afternoon tea or coffee time with family
- As a sweet ending to your Easter dinner
7. The Meaning Behind the Recipe
This resurrection rolls recipe serves as an edible object lesson that makes the Easter story tangible and memorable. Each element represents part of the biblical account:
- The dough symbolizes the linen cloths that wrapped Jesus’ body after crucifixion
- The marshmallow represents Jesus’ body placed in the tomb
- The melted butter and spices recall the burial oils and spices used according to Jewish custom
- The oven represents the tomb where Jesus’ body lay for three days
- The hollow roll shows the empty tomb discovered on resurrection morning
- The sweet taste reminds us of the joy of Christ’s victory over death
To learn more about our approach to meaningful recipes, visit our about page.
8. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make resurrection rolls ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can prepare them up to the baking step and refrigerate overnight. Keep them covered in the fridge, then bake just before serving for optimal results. The dough might puff slightly less after refrigeration.
Why did my marshmallow leak out?
This usually happens if the dough isn’t sealed properly. Make sure to pinch all edges firmly and completely encase the marshmallow. Also avoid overfilling—use one standard marshmallow per roll.
Can I freeze resurrection rolls?
Yes! Freeze baked rolls in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat in a 300°F oven for 5-8 minutes before serving. You can also freeze unbaked rolls—add 2-3 minutes to baking time when cooking from frozen.
Are there vegan alternatives?
Absolutely! Use vegan crescent dough (check labels as some contain dairy) and vegan marshmallows with plant-based butter. The results will be just as meaningful and delicious.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free crescent roll dough (available in some stores) or make your own gluten-free dough. The marshmallows are naturally gluten-free.
What if I don’t have crescent roll dough?
You can substitute with biscuit dough or pizza dough rolled thin—just adjust baking times accordingly.
9. Conclusion
This resurrection rolls recipe offers more than just delicious flavors—it creates a memorable Easter tradition that brings the story of resurrection to life in a tangible, edible way. Whether you’re making them with children to teach about Easter or simply enjoying them as a special holiday treat, these sweet rolls are sure to become a family favorite year after year. The combination of flaky pastry, cinnamon sugar, and the surprise hollow center makes every bite meaningful and conversation-starting.
We hope this recipe brings joy to your Easter celebrations and creates lasting memories around your table. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the profound message they convey makes this one of our most treasured holiday recipes. May your Easter be filled with the same hope and joy represented in these special rolls!
Print
Family Favorite Resurrection Rolls
Family Favorite Resurrection Rolls are a meaningful Easter tradition that beautifully illustrates the story of Jesus’ resurrection through delicious pastry. These sweet, fluffy rolls hide a marshmallow inside that disappears during baking, leaving behind a hollow center—a perfect edible metaphor for the empty tomb. Perfect for Easter breakfast or as part of your holiday celebrations.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 8 large marshmallows
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper
- Mix sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl, keep melted butter ready
- Unroll crescent dough and separate into triangles
- Dip each marshmallow in melted butter, then roll in cinnamon-sugar mixture
- Place marshmallow at wide end of each dough triangle and wrap completely, sealing edges
- Place sealed rolls on baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown
- Let cool slightly before serving, dust with powdered sugar if desired
Notes
- Use fresh marshmallows for best melting results
- Ensure dough is completely sealed around marshmallow to prevent leaks
- Tent with foil if rolls brown too quickly
- Add nutmeg or cardamom to cinnamon sugar for extra flavor
- Perfect for teaching children about Easter while baking together
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 180 Kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
