Resurrection rolls are a delightful Easter treat that’s perfect to make with kids. Crescent roll dough is wrapped around a cinnamon-sugar coated marshmallow, baked until golden and flaky, then finished with a simple powdered sugar glaze. They make a sweet addition to Easter brunch or dessert.
Resurrection rolls are an easy and fun baking project, ideal for explaining the Easter story to children while creating something delicious. The finished rolls are buttery and flaky with a cinnamon-sweet interior reminiscent of a cinnamon roll.
What do resurrection rolls mean?
Resurrection rolls symbolize the empty tomb following Jesus’s resurrection. As the rolls bake, the marshmallow melts and disappears inside the sealed dough, representing the story of the stone rolled away and the empty tomb. Because of this, they’re sometimes called “empty tomb rolls.”
Ingredients
The recipe has two parts: the rolls and the glaze.
For the rolls:
- Granulated sugar
- Cinnamon
- Marshmallows – Use large marshmallows for easier handling; you’ll need 24.
- Butter – Melted.
- Crescent roll dough – The refrigerated canned dough in the grocery store.
For the glaze:
- Powdered sugar
- Cinnamon
- Heavy cream – Or milk/half-and-half; use 1–2 tablespoons to reach the desired consistency.
- Vanilla extract
How to Make
These rolls are great to prepare with kids because they’re simple and hands-on.
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two muffin tins with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together granulated sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. Dip each marshmallow in melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat completely.
4. Place a coated marshmallow on a crescent roll triangle and wrap, pinching seams tightly to seal so the marshmallow stays inside while baking.
5. Arrange each wrapped marshmallow in the prepared muffin tins. For easier cleanup, place the muffin tins on a baking sheet to catch any leaks.
6. Bake for 12–14 minutes or until the rolls are golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
7. While the rolls cool, whisk the powdered sugar and cinnamon together. Add 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk) and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla; stir until smooth and pourable.
8. Drizzle the glaze over the slightly cooled rolls and let it set for a few minutes, then serve warm.
Storing Leftovers
These are best enjoyed the day they are made. If you need to store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a day. Reheat briefly in a warm oven before serving to restore flakiness.
Can I use mini marshmallows?
Large marshmallows are recommended. Mini marshmallows might work but are harder to wrap and won’t create the same “disappearing” effect inside the roll.
Tips and Tricks
- Some marshmallow may leak during baking; this is normal. Use a baking sheet under the muffin tins to catch drips.
- Spray the muffin tins with nonstick spray or use paper liners to make cleanup easier.
- Pinch seams well to minimize leaks, but don’t worry if a little marshmallow escapes—the rolls will still taste great.
Recipe Summary
Resurrection Rolls
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 24
Calories: 172 kcal per serving (approx.)
Ingredients
For the rolls: 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon cinnamon, 24 large marshmallows, 1/4 cup melted butter, 3 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough.
For the glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk, 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line muffin tins with liners.
- Whisk granulated sugar and cinnamon together.
- Dip each marshmallow in melted butter, then coat in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Wrap each coated marshmallow in a crescent roll triangle, sealing seams.
- Place in muffin tins and bake 12–14 minutes until golden.
- Whisk glaze ingredients until smooth, then drizzle over slightly cooled rolls.
Notes
- Expect some marshmallow leakage—use a baking sheet under the tins to catch drips and make cleanup easier.
- These are best fresh but can be refrigerated in an airtight container for a short time and warmed before serving.
Enjoy these sweet, symbolic treats with your family this Easter.