Dessert

Monte Cristo Rolls Recipe

ByThomas Greene December 23, 2025December 23, 2025

Introduction

Monte Cristo Rolls offer a fun and delicious twist on the classic sandwich, wrapped up and baked into soft, golden rolls. With layers of ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, mustard, and raspberry jam, these rolls bring together sweet and savory flavors perfect for brunch or a cozy dinner.

A close-up of a cinnamon roll with thick layers of soft dough spiraled around each other, showing light golden brown and creamy white colors. There are visible bits of red fruit or jam spread inside the layers. Powdered sugar is lightly dusted on top, adding a white powdery texture. Golden amber syrup is being poured over the cinnamon roll, dripping down its sides and pooling on the white plate underneath. The whole scene is set against a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

Unsalted butter, for baking dish
All-purpose flour, for dusting
2 (13.8-oz.) cans pizza dough (preferably Pillsbury), divided
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
8 oz. deli ham, thinly sliced
6 Tbsp. raspberry jam
8 oz. Swiss cheese, thinly sliced
8 oz. deli turkey, thinly sliced
1 large egg
2 Tbsp. heavy cream
Confectioners’ sugar and maple syrup, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Arrange a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 350°F. Grease a 13″ x 9″ baking dish with unsalted butter.
Step 2: On a lightly floured surface, spread out 1 can of pizza dough into a rectangle. Spread Dijon mustard over the dough, leaving a 1/4-inch border. Layer ham evenly over the mustard.
Step 3: Unroll the second can of dough and place it on top of the ham layer. Spread raspberry jam over this top dough layer, leaving a 1/4-inch border. Then layer Swiss cheese over the jam, covering the entire surface, followed by the turkey slices.
Step 4: Starting from the left side, roll the dough tightly, tucking in the edges as you go. Slice the roll into 6 equal pieces. Place the pieces flat side down in the prepared baking dish, like cinnamon rolls.
Step 5: In a small bowl, beat the egg and heavy cream until blended. Brush this mixture over the tops and sides of the rolls; it will create a rich, custard-like glaze.
Step 6: Bake the rolls for 40 to 45 minutes until they are puffed up and golden brown on the outside. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Step 7: Transfer the rolls to a serving platter, dust with confectioners’ sugar, and serve with maple syrup on the side for dipping.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, try mixing a little horseradish into the mustard before spreading.
Substitute fig jam or apricot preserves for raspberry jam to vary the sweetness.
Use your favorite sliced cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Make sure to tuck the edges tightly when rolling to prevent filling from leaking during baking.

Storage

Store any leftover Monte Cristo Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through to maintain crispiness. You can also freeze the unbaked rolls, wrapped tightly, and bake fresh when ready.

How to Serve

The image shows five cinnamon rolls arranged loosely on a white marbled surface, each roll having multiple visible layers of golden brown dough swirled with a reddish cinnamon filling. The texture of the dough looks soft and slightly flaky, with some parts browned to a light crisp. Powdered sugar is being dusted over the rolls from above, creating a fine white sprinkle that settles on the tops and the surface below. The rolls have a warm, inviting look with slight variations in size and shape, emphasizing their homemade quality. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them covered for a few hours or overnight before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.