This simple baked dessert is the kind of clever shortcut recipe busy families love, turning a package of solid frozen hamburger buns and a few pantry staples into a warm, cozy treat that feels a little special for Grandparents Day. It bakes up like an easy bread pudding or cinnamon bake, with soft centers and golden edges, and it is especially nice when you want something homemade without a long ingredient list or a lot of fuss.
Serve this dessert warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped topping, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For a family-style table, I also like to add fresh sliced apples or berries on the side and pour coffee, tea, or cold milk to make it feel like a relaxed little celebration after supper.
Servings: 6
6 solid unwrapped frozen hamburger buns
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease an oven-safe ceramic baking dish.
2. Arrange the solid frozen hamburger buns in the baking dish in a single snug layer.
3. In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until combined.
4. Spoon and drizzle the butter mixture evenly over the frozen buns, coating the tops and letting some run down into the dish.
5. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until the buns are heated through, softened in the center, and golden and caramelized on top.
6. Let the dessert rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving warm.
For extra sweetness: Add a light drizzle of honey or maple syrup over the top right after baking if your family likes desserts on the sweeter side.
For picky eaters: Use a little less cinnamon for a milder flavor, or serve each portion with whipped topping so everyone can dress up their own bowl.
For a richer texture: Cover the dish loosely with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking, then uncover for the remaining time so the centers soften while the tops still turn golden.
Serving tip: If the buns are very large, you can cut them in half once slightly thawed to help the buttery cinnamon mixture soak in more evenly and create more crisp edges.
