easter bunny rolls recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best easter bunny rolls recipe

I have been making these Easter bunny rolls for years now and they are always a hit with my family. My kids love helping me shape the dough into little bunnies and it has become a fun tradition for us every spring. The best part is that these rolls are not just cute they are also soft and fluffy and taste amazing with a little butter.

I love that I can make them from scratch with simple ingredients I already have in my pantry. These rolls are perfect for Easter brunch or dinner but honestly we enjoy them all spring long. They are light and airy with a slightly sweet taste that goes well with ham or any holiday meal.

I use a basic yeast dough recipe that is easy to work with and the bunny shape is simple to form even for beginners. The rolls bake up golden brown and smell so good coming out of the oven. One thing I really appreciate about this recipe is that it uses whole wheat flour which adds a little fiber and nutrients.

My family does not even notice the difference because the rolls are still tender and delicious. They are a healthier option compared to store bought rolls that have preservatives and added sugar. I feel good serving these to my kids knowing they are getting something wholesome.

These rolls also freeze well so I often make a double batch and save some for later. They reheat nicely in the oven or microwave and taste just as fresh as the day I baked them. I love having a batch ready in the freezer for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen and I hope it becomes one in yours too.

Easter Bunny Rolls

4.6 from 1153 votes

Soft and fluffy yeast rolls shaped like bunnies. These are perfect for Easter celebrations and are made with simple ingredients including whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins plus rising time
Servings: 12 rollsCuisine: InternationalCalories: 180 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

1 cup warm milk (110°F)
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
1 large egg
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups all purpose flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 tablespoon olive oil for greasing

For the Topping

1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water for wash
2 tablespoons sesame seeds or poppy seeds optional

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a small bowl combine warm milk and yeast.
2Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3This means the yeast is active and ready to use.
4In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer bowl whisk together sugar melted butter egg and salt.
5Add the yeast mixture and stir until combined.
6Add all purpose flour and whole wheat flour one cup at a time mixing until a soft dough forms.
7If using a stand mixer use the dough hook on low speed for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
8Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for 2 to 3 minutes until it feels smooth and springy.
9Shape the dough into a ball.
10Grease a large bowl with olive oil and place the dough inside turning once to coat.
11Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.
12Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
13Roll each piece into a rope about 8 inches long.
14Cut each rope into three sections one larger piece for the body and two smaller pieces for the ears.
15Shape the large piece into an oval for the bunny body and place it on a parchment lined baking sheet.
16Roll the two smaller pieces into long thin ropes and curl them slightly to form ears.
17Attach the ears to the top of the body pressing gently to seal.
18Cover the shaped rolls loosely with plastic wrap and let them rise for 30 minutes until puffy.
19Meanwhile preheat the oven to 375°F.
20Brush the risen rolls with the egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds if using.
21Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown on top and hollow sounding when tapped.
22Transfer the rolls to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.
23They are best enjoyed warm with butter.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Stand mixer with dough hook optional
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Plastic wrap
Kitchen scissors
Pastry brush

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 180 kcal🧈Total Fat: 6g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 35mg🧂Sodium: 220mg🌾Total Carbs: 28g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 5g

📝Notes

For a dairy free version use almond milk and vegan butter. You can also add raisins or chocolate chips for the bunny eyes before baking.

Watch Video Of How Easter Bunny Rolls Works

These Easter bunny rolls are always a good idea for any spring gathering or holiday meal. They work well for family gatherings because they are fun to make and even more fun to eat.

I love seeing my kids faces light up when they see the bunny shapes on the table. For storing leftovers keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

To reheat simply pop them in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes or microwave for 15 seconds. Serve them warm with butter or jam for a simple and delicious treat.

These rolls also freeze beautifully so you can enjoy them long after Easter is over.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Easter Bunny Rolls

1. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator. The next morning shape the rolls and let them rise at room temperature before baking. This saves time on Easter morning.

2. How do I store leftover rolls?

Store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage freeze them in a zip top bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.

3. Can I use only all purpose flour instead of whole wheat?

Yes you can use 3 cups of all purpose flour instead of the mix. The rolls will be slightly less dense and have a lighter texture. The whole wheat adds a nutty flavor and more fiber.

4. Why did my rolls not rise properly?

This can happen if the milk was too hot and killed the yeast or too cold and did not activate it. Make sure the milk is around 110°F which feels warm but not hot to the touch. Also check that your yeast is not expired.

5. Can I add fillings to the bunny rolls?

Absolutely you can add a small piece of cheese or a raisin inside the dough before shaping. For sweet rolls try a cinnamon sugar filling. Just make sure not to overfill so the rolls hold their shape.

Similar Posts