Table of Contents
Introduction to Resurrection Rolls
What Are Resurrection Rolls?
Resurrection rolls are a simple yet meaningful Easter treat: a marshmallow is dipped in butter, rolled in cinnamon-sugar, then wrapped in crescent roll dough and baked. As the marshmallow melts away in the oven, it leaves a hollow “tomb” inside the roll—symbolizing Jesus’ resurrection.

The Symbolism Behind the “Empty Tomb”
Each step tells part of the Easter story. The butter represents the oils used to anoint Christ’s body, the cinnamon sugar stands for the spices, the dough symbolizes the tomb, and the disappearing marshmallow re-emerges as an empty space—a powerful visual for Resurrection Sunday.
Why This Recipe Is a Family Favorite
- Kid-friendly fun: Kids love unwrapping the gooey surprise.
- Quick & no-fail: You need just five pantry staples and 15 minutes of hands-on time.
- Tradition builder: Makes a memorable Sunday school activity or brunch centerpiece.
Resurrection Rolls Ingredients & Fun Variations
Core Ingredients You’ll Need
- Marshmallows: Regular size (large) gives the best hollow cavity.
- Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough: Pre-cut triangles save time.
- Butter: Melted, to help the cinnamon-sugar stick.
- Cinnamon & Sugar: Classic coating—use 2 tbsp sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon.
Gluten-Free, Chocolate & Pumpkin-Spice Twists
- Gluten-Free Dough: Swap in your favorite GF crescent dough.
- Chocolate-Filled: Replace marshmallow with a small chocolate truffle or square for a melted-chocolate “tomb.”
- Pumpkin-Spice: Stir ½ tsp pumpkin-pie spice into the cinnamon sugar for an autumnal twist (great for Fall Resurrection services).
Tips for Choosing & Preparing Your Ingredients
- Marshmallow quality: Fresh, squishy ones melt cleanly; avoid rock-hard minis.
- Room-temperature butter: Melts more evenly so your sugar mixture clings.
- Even coating: Use tongs or a fork to roll marshmallows in butter and sugar—this keeps fingers cleaner and coating uniform.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Resurrection Rolls Recipe
Step 1 – Prep: Melt Butter & Mix Cinnamon Sugar
- Preheat your oven to 375 °F (190 °C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
- In a small bowl, melt 3 tbsp butter. In another bowl, whisk ½ cup sugar with 1 tsp cinnamon.
- Have ready four small dishes: butter, sugar, crescent dough, and a tray for assembled rolls.
Step 2 – Assemble: Wrap Marshmallows in Dough
- Dip a marshmallow into the melted butter, then roll in cinnamon sugar until completely coated.
- Unroll one triangle of crescent dough; place the coated marshmallow in the wide end.
- Wrap snugly, pinching seams to seal completely—this prevents sugar from escaping and ensures the “tomb” effect.

Step 3 – Bake: Golden, Puffy Perfection
- Place rolls seam-side down on your parchment-lined sheet, spacing them 1 inch apart.
- Bake 10–12 minutes until golden-brown and puffed.
- Cool 2 minutes—then gently pull apart to reveal the hollow center. Serve warm!
Serving, Storage & FAQs
Serving Suggestions & Make-Ahead Tips
- Serve Warm with Beverages: Plate your resurrection rolls right out of the oven alongside hot cocoa, coffee, or a spiced apple cider. The warm, gooey interior pairs beautifully with a steaming mug.
- Brunch Spread Star: Arrange them on a tiered dessert stand next to deviled eggs, ham slices, and fresh fruit for an Easter brunch centerpiece.
- Kid-Friendly Platter: Let little ones pull apart their own roll to “discover” the empty tomb—it’s both a treat and a hands-on storytelling aid.
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble unbaked rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 8 hours. When ready, bake straight from the fridge—just add 1–2 minutes to the clock.
- Freezer Prep: Freeze assembled, unbaked rolls in a single layer until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag; bake from frozen at 375 °F for 14–16 minutes, adding a couple of extra minutes until golden.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can you make Resurrection Rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You have two easy options:
Refrigerator Method: Assemble rolls, cover the tray in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 8 hours. Bake directly from cold—you may need to add 1–2 extra minutes.
Freezer Method: Freeze assembled rolls on a sheet until firm, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen at 375 °F for 14–16 minutes (add a few minutes if needed) until golden.
What do Resurrection Rolls symbolize?
Every element represents a part of the Easter story:
Butter: The oil used to anoint Jesus’ body
Cinnamon-Sugar: The spices placed around Him
Dough: The tomb’s sealed stone
Empty Center: The resurrected Christ and the empty tomb
Can you make Resurrection Rolls with puff pastry?
Absolutely. Substitute pre-rolled puff pastry sheets cut into triangles. Because puff pastry is flakier, watch your bake time closely—usually 10–11 minutes at 375 °F—until the pastry is golden and puffed.
What does the marshmallow Jesus mean?
In this activity, the marshmallow represents Jesus laid in the tomb. As it melts away, it leaves a hollow cavity—the “empty tomb.” It’s a simple yet profound visual: Christ’s body was raised, leaving the tomb empty.
Conclusion
Easy Resurrection Rolls blend delicious family fun with meaningful Easter symbolism. With just five simple ingredients, you can create a memorable hands-on activity for kids, a delightful addition to your holiday brunch, and a tasty reminder of the empty tomb. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or try out gluten-free or chocolate variations, these rolls are sure to become a cherished tradition. Gather your loved ones, preheat the oven, and let the Resurrection Rolls bring both sweetness and significance to your celebrations.
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