Fluffy Easter Resurrection Rolls: Easy 5-Step Cozy Brunch Recipe

Just picture it—the soft, yeasty aroma of fresh dough spiraling through your kitchen, golden rolls puffing up in the oven, and warm cinnamon sugar making everything smell like a bakery on Easter morning. The first time I made these Fluffy Easter Resurrection Rolls, the anticipation was almost as sweet as the finished treat. My kids hovered by the oven door, noses pressed to the glass, and even my husband (who claims he’s “ambivalent about sweets”—ha!) couldn’t resist sneaking into the kitchen. You know, there’s something magical about watching marshmallows disappear inside fluffy dough, leaving behind a hollow pocket and a story to tell. It’s the kind of moment where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special.

When I was knee-high to a grasshopper, Easter mornings meant sticky buns and colored eggs, but I wish I’d discovered these resurrection rolls sooner. They’re pure, nostalgic comfort—the kind of cozy, hands-on recipe perfect for little helpers (or for anyone who just loves licking cinnamon sugar off their fingers). We first stumbled upon this recipe at a church bake sale, and honestly, I’ve never looked back. These rolls have become a staple for our family gatherings, for gifting to neighbors, and for making lazy holiday mornings feel extra special. My family couldn’t stop sneaking them off the cooling rack (and I can’t really blame them—a warm roll is perfection).

Whether you’re looking to brighten up your Pinterest brunch board, surprise your kids with a sweet treat, or just want an easy, delicious way to add a little meaning to your Easter spread, these Fluffy Easter Resurrection Rolls are the answer. I tested this recipe more times than I’d care to admit (in the name of research, of course), and every batch feels like a warm hug. You’re going to want to bookmark this one—trust me!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you, after years of holiday brunches and countless recipe experiments, these Fluffy Easter Resurrection Rolls stand out for all the right reasons. There’s just something about the pillowy-soft dough wrapped around gooey, melted marshmallow that delights everyone, every single time. As a home baker, I’ve learned that the best recipes are the ones that bring people together—and this one does just that, with a little storytelling magic baked right in.

• Quick & Easy: No complicated techniques—just five simple steps and you’re done! Perfect for busy mornings or when you want to keep brunch stress-free.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably have everything you need already (no fancy shopping required). Pantry staples and a bag of marshmallows—how easy is that?
• Perfect for Easter: There’s a built-in teachable moment here, making this recipe ideal for sharing the Resurrection story with kids in a hands-on, memorable way.
• Crowd-Pleaser: I’ve yet to meet a person who doesn’t grin after biting into one. Kids love the sweetness and surprise, and grownups appreciate the soft, buttery dough.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of gooey marshmallow, warm cinnamon, and golden dough is next-level comfort food. Every bite is a little celebration.

What really makes these resurrection rolls different from the rest? It’s all about the technique—rolling marshmallows in cinnamon sugar before sealing them inside the dough creates a sweet, fragrant pocket that’s both a treat and a teaching moment. I use a little extra butter for a richer flavor, and I’ve found that letting the rolls rise just a bit before baking makes them ultra-fluffy. Plus, you can customize the filling if you’re feeling adventurous (chocolate chips, anyone?).

This recipe isn’t just good—it’s the kind that makes you close your eyes and savor the first bite. It’s comfort food, but with a story, a little lesson, and a lot of heart. Whether you’re impressing brunch guests or just making a Saturday morning special, these resurrection rolls are always a hit. They’re my go-to for cozy holidays, and I have a feeling they’ll become your new tradition too.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and a satisfying, fluffy texture—without any complicated steps. Most of these are pantry staples, so you probably won’t have to run to the store. Here’s what you’ll need for the fluffiest, most scrumptious Easter resurrection rolls:

• For the Dough:
  • 1 can (16 oz / 450 g) refrigerated crescent roll dough (or homemade dough if you’re feeling ambitious!)
• For the Filling:
  • 8 large marshmallows (standard size—not mini or jumbo)
  • 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted (for brushing and flavor)
• For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon (8 g) ground cinnamon
• Optional Finishing Touches:
  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Vanilla glaze (1/2 cup powdered sugar + 2 teaspoons milk + 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract mixed smooth)

Tried-and-True Tips: I recommend Pillsbury for the crescent dough—it’s consistently soft and bakes up beautifully. For marshmallows, classic Jet-Puffed works great. If you’re dairy-free, swap the butter for a plant-based version and use coconut oil for brushing. Looking for a gluten-free option? Try a gluten-free biscuit dough (King Arthur’s is reliable). And if you want to add a little twist, tuck a few chocolate chips under each marshmallow or add a dash of orange zest to the cinnamon sugar for a fresh, springy note.

In the summer, I sometimes swap the marshmallow for a spoonful of strawberry jam for a fruity take. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility—use what you have, and don’t be afraid to experiment. The ingredients are simple, but the flavor payoff is huge!

Equipment Needed

You don’t need a fancy kitchen setup to make these Fluffy Easter Resurrection Rolls—just a few basic tools and a little holiday spirit:

• Baking sheet or pan: I use a standard half-sheet pan lined with parchment for easy cleanup. A glass baking dish works too if you like softer edges.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: Keeps everything from sticking (and trust me, marshmallow can get sticky!).
• Mixing bowls: For the cinnamon sugar and melted butter.
• Pastry brush: For buttering the dough—if you don’t have one, a clean finger works in a pinch.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy helps with the cinnamon-sugar ratio.
• Cooling rack: Not essential but handy for letting the rolls set (and for keeping sneaky hands away—sometimes).

No stand mixer or rolling pin needed here. If you’re using homemade dough, a rolling pin helps, but crescent dough is ready to go. I’ve used everything from thrift-store baking sheets to a well-loved Pyrex dish—both work just fine. And for cleaning marshmallow off pans, a soak in warm water does wonders. Budget-friendly tools get the job done just as well as the fancy stuff.

How to Make Fluffy Easter Resurrection Rolls (Step-by-Step)

1. Prep Your Setup (5 minutes):
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
   • Gather all your ingredients and tools so you’re not scrambling when your hands are sticky (trust me, you’ll thank yourself later).
2. Mix Cinnamon Sugar & Melt Butter (3 minutes):
   • In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon (8 g) ground cinnamon. Stir until evenly mixed—no clumps.
   • Melt 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter in a separate bowl. (Microwave in 10-second bursts or melt gently on the stove.)
3. Assemble the Rolls (10 minutes):
   • Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into 8 triangles. (If it’s sticky, pop it in the fridge for 5 minutes.)
   • Dip each marshmallow into the melted butter, coating all sides. Then roll in the cinnamon sugar until covered (kids love helping with this part!).
   • Place each marshmallow at the wide end of a dough triangle. Fold the dough over the marshmallow, then pinch and seal all edges well—no leaks! Roll gently into a ball, making sure it’s completely sealed (otherwise, the marshmallow might escape during baking).
4. Bake Until Golden & Fluffy (13-15 minutes):
   • Arrange the filled dough balls on your baking sheet, leaving space between each.
   • Brush the tops with any leftover melted butter and sprinkle extra cinnamon sugar if desired (for a little crunch!).
   • Bake for 13-15 minutes, until golden brown and puffed up. The kitchen will smell amazing—don’t rush this part!
   • Sensory cue: The rolls should look golden, with a slight crackle on top, and feel soft to the touch.
5. Cool & Finish (5-10 minutes):
   • Let the resurrection rolls cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack. The marshmallow will set and create a hollow center.
   • Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a quick vanilla glaze while they’re still slightly warm.
   • Serve fresh and warm for the best ooey-gooey experience!

Troubleshooting: If a marshmallow leaks, no worries—it happens! The roll is still delicious, just a little messier. For best results, pinch the dough edges tightly. If your dough is too soft, chill it for a few minutes before assembling. And if you like an extra-fluffy roll, let them sit for 10 minutes before baking to puff up a bit more.

Prep Tip: Assembly is a great job for little hands—just have some extra cinnamon sugar on hand for snacking!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Years of making these resurrection rolls have taught me a few tricks (and, let’s be honest, I’ve had my share of leaky marshmallow disasters!). Here’s what I’ve learned along the way:

• Seal Carefully: The number one issue is marshmallow leaking out. Don’t rush—pinch the dough edges together really well. If you see a small hole, patch it with a bit of extra dough.
• Don’t Overstuff: Stick to one large marshmallow per roll. More seems better, but it’ll burst through the dough as it melts.
• Chill Dough if Sticky: If your dough is getting too soft or sticky, pop it in the fridge for 5-10 minutes. It makes sealing much easier and prevents tearing.
• Even Spacing: Leave enough space on the pan so the rolls have room to puff up and brown evenly.
• Bake on Parchment: Marshmallow can get sticky as it melts. Parchment paper or a silicone mat makes cleanup a breeze (and saves your pans from hard-to-remove sugar spots).
• Watch the Oven: Every oven is different. Start checking at 12 minutes—the goal is golden brown, not too dark. Overbaking dries out the dough.
• Let Them Rest: The rolls will be piping hot and the inside will be molten right out of the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes so the marshmallow sets and the rolls are easier to handle.
• Personal Failures: I’ve tried adding mini marshmallows for “extra filling” and ended up with more marshmallow on my pan than in the roll! Stick to the classic method for best results.
• Multitask: While the rolls bake, prep a quick glaze or set the table. These few minutes go quickly, and multitasking keeps brunch moving.
• Consistency is Key: Try to make your dough balls the same size so they bake evenly. If you’re making a double batch, use two pans and swap their positions halfway through baking.

With these tips, you’ll get perfect, fluffy resurrection rolls every time—even if you’re a little messy in the kitchen (I sure am!).

Variations & Adaptations

One of my favorite things about Fluffy Easter Resurrection Rolls is how customizable they are. Whether you’re adapting for allergies, adding your own flair, or just switching things up seasonally, here are some tried-and-true variations:

• Gluten-Free Resurrection Rolls: Use a gluten-free biscuit or crescent dough (King Arthur’s or Simple Mills are solid choices). The rest of the ingredients work as is—just watch bake time, as gluten-free dough can brown faster.
• Dairy-Free or Vegan: Swap in plant-based butter and vegan marshmallows (Dandies is a popular brand). Check your dough—many store-bought versions are dairy-free, but always read the label.
• Chocolate Stuffed: Tuck a few chocolate chips or a square of dark chocolate under the marshmallow before wrapping. The chocolate melts along with the marshmallow for a decadent surprise!
• Seasonal Flavors: Add a pinch of orange or lemon zest to the cinnamon sugar for a springy, citrus twist. In autumn, swap the cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice.
• Fruit-Filled: Instead of marshmallow, use a spoonful of strawberry or raspberry jam. It’s a fun fruity take (just be sure to seal the dough extra well, as jam can leak).
• Personal Favorite: I’ve tried brushing the outside with a little maple syrup before baking for an extra caramelized finish—so delicious!

For nut allergies, skip any nut-based toppings and stick to the classic recipe. If you want to use a different cooking method, these work in an air fryer (cook at 350°F/177°C for 8-10 minutes) for a crispier finish. Honestly, don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own—it’s incredibly forgiving and always a hit.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These resurrection rolls are hands-down best served fresh and warm from the oven—the marshmallow center is gooey, the dough is soft, and the cinnamon sugar is fragrant. I love piling them onto a pretty plate, dusting with powdered sugar, and watching everyone’s faces light up as they break into each roll.

Serving ideas: Serve with fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, and orange juice for a balanced brunch. Kids love them with a glass of cold milk. For grownups, pair with a hot cup of coffee or a frothy chai latte.

• Presentation tip: Place the rolls in a basket lined with a tea towel to keep them warm on the table. Add pastel napkins for an extra Easter touch!

Storage: If you have leftovers (rare, but it happens), let the rolls cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooled rolls in a zip-top bag for up to 1 month.

• Reheating: Warm rolls in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. The marshmallow may not be quite as gooey, but they’re still delicious!
• Flavor develops: The cinnamon flavor deepens a bit overnight, so don’t be afraid to make them the night before and reheat for brunch.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a rough estimate per roll (based on the classic version):

• Calories: 160
• Carbohydrates: 27 g
• Fat: 5.5 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Sugar: 10 g

The main ingredients—marshmallows, crescent dough, and cinnamon—make this a sweet treat, but there are a few perks! Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants and has a comforting aroma that’s been shown to boost mood (seriously, it’s science!). If you use gluten-free or dairy-free options, these rolls can fit a variety of dietary needs. However, they do contain wheat (unless you use GF dough) and may contain dairy, so always check your labels if allergies are a concern.

I love that these are portion-controlled—one roll is a perfect little treat. In our family, we treat them as a special occasion food, enjoyed with lots of laughter. They’re not health food, but they’re a sweet part of our celebration and bring joy in every bite!

Conclusion

If you’re searching for a recipe that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, these Fluffy Easter Resurrection Rolls are absolutely worth a try. They’re cozy, meaningful, and packed with warm, sweet flavor—a little holiday magic in every bite. Don’t be afraid to make them your own—switch up the fillings, play with glazes, or invite the kids to help assemble (sticky fingers just mean happy memories!).

I love this recipe because it brings my family together and always sparks conversation around the table. There’s something special about sharing a story and a treat all in one. So go ahead, give these resurrection rolls a whirl, and let me know how they turn out! Drop a comment with your favorite variation or share your results on Pinterest—I’d love to see your cozy brunch creations. Happy Easter, and happy baking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make resurrection rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the rolls the night before, cover them tightly, and refrigerate. Bake them fresh in the morning for that classic warm-and-gooey effect.

What does the “resurrection” part mean in resurrection rolls?

The marshmallow represents Jesus, and as it melts inside the dough, it disappears—leaving an empty “tomb.” It’s a hands-on way to share the Easter story with kids.

Can I use homemade dough instead of canned crescent rolls?

Absolutely! Any soft yeast dough or sweet roll dough works. Just roll it thin and cut into triangles. The bake time may increase by a few minutes, so keep an eye on them.

How do I keep the marshmallow from leaking out?

Make sure to seal the dough edges tightly around the marshmallow. Chill the dough if it gets too soft, and patch any holes before baking. Some leaking is normal and totally fine—it adds to the charm!

Are resurrection rolls allergy-friendly?

They can be! Use gluten-free dough and vegan marshmallows for allergy-friendly versions. Always check labels for nuts, dairy, and wheat if allergies are a concern.

Print