There’s something purely magical about freshly baked sweet rolls wafting through your kitchen—the buttery aroma, the soft golden texture, and that creamy custard filling that melts in your mouth. Custard Cream Filled Rose Rolls are one of those recipes that bridge the gap between an elegant dessert and a comforting homemade treat. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and delicately shaped like blooming roses, each one filled with luscious vanilla custard that adds a creamy surprise in every bite. Whether you’re making them for a weekend breakfast, a holiday celebration, or simply to brighten an ordinary day, these rolls will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 ½ cups (320 g) all-purpose flour

• 2 ¼ tsp (7 g) instant yeast

• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 large egg

• ½ cup (120 ml) warm milk (around 38°C / 100°F)

• ¼ cup (60 g) softened butter

For the Custard Filling:

• 2 egg yolks

• ¼ cup (50 g) sugar

• 1 ½ tbsp cornstarch

• 1 cup (240 ml) milk

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tbsp butter

For Brushing and Decoration:

• 1 egg yolk (for brushing)

• 1 tbsp milk (for brushing)

• Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Custard Cream: In a saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook until the mixture thickens, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Once thickened, remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract and butter, and mix until smooth and glossy. Transfer the custard to a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap (pressing it directly on the surface), and let it cool completely.

2. Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast activates and becomes foamy. Add the egg, salt, and half of the flour. Mix until combined, then gradually add the remaining flour. Knead until a soft dough forms. Add softened butter and continue kneading for 8–10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

3. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

4. Shape the Rolls: Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. Divide it into equal portions (around 10–12 pieces). Roll each piece into a circle, about 10 cm (4 inches) in diameter. Cut 4 slits from the edges toward the center, forming a cross shape but leaving the center intact. Place about 1 teaspoon of cooled custard in the middle. Fold each “petal” toward the center, slightly overlapping, to create a rose-like shape. Pinch the edges gently to seal the custard inside.

5. Second Rise: Place the shaped rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover them lightly and let them rise for another 20–25 minutes, until slightly puffy.

6. Preheat the Oven: While the rolls rise, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

7. Brush and Bake: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk. Gently brush this mixture over each roll for a shiny golden finish. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the rolls are beautifully golden and cooked through.

8. Cool and Serve: Allow the rolls to cool slightly on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrients

• Calories: 240 kcal per roll (approx.)

• Protein: 6 g

• Fat: 9 g

• Carbohydrates: 32 g

• Sugar: 9 g

• Fiber: 1 g

• Calcium: 45 mg

Ingredient Spotlight

The heart of this recipe lies in the custard cream—smooth, rich, and infused with comforting vanilla. Using egg yolks gives it that velvety texture, while cornstarch ensures it thickens just right. The dough, enriched with butter and milk, gives the rolls a soft, tender crumb similar to brioche. The combination of these two elements makes each bite creamy, soft, and slightly buttery. High-quality butter and vanilla extract make all the difference here, so use the best you can find for the most flavorful result.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you somehow manage not to eat them all immediately, you can store these Custard Cream Filled Rose Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a microwave for about 15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for 5–7 minutes. Avoid overheating, as this can dry them out. You can also freeze them (without powdered sugar) for up to 2 months—just thaw and reheat before serving.

Common Variations to Try

There’s plenty of room for creativity with this recipe. You can fill the rolls with chocolate custard, fruit jam, or even Nutella for a decadent twist. Add a few berries or sliced apples inside the rolls before shaping for a fruity touch. For an aromatic variation, add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the dough. You could even drizzle the finished rolls with lemon glaze or melted white chocolate for extra flair.

Pairing Recommendations

These rose rolls pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, cappuccino, or latte. If you prefer tea, try them with Earl Grey or jasmine tea—the floral notes complement the delicate sweetness perfectly. They also make a wonderful companion to a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit on the side. For a breakfast spread, serve them with yogurt, honey, or a light fruit salad for balance.

Health Benefits

While these are indulgent treats, they do offer some benefits. Eggs and milk contribute protein and calcium, while homemade custard avoids the preservatives and artificial additives found in store-bought pastries. If you want a lighter version, you can reduce the sugar slightly and use low-fat milk. Because they’re baked rather than fried, they’re also lower in fat compared to other desserts.

Conclusion

Custard Cream Filled Rose Rolls are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of flavor, texture, and artistry. The soft, pillowy dough cradles a creamy custard center that makes every bite pure comfort. They look stunning on the table, smell heavenly as they bake, and taste even better than they look. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, these rose rolls are guaranteed to bring smiles and sweet satisfaction. Once you make them, you’ll understand why they’re worth every minute in the kitchen—a beautiful blend of love, tradition, and taste in every delicate swirl.