Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Cinnamon Roll Casserole: The Ultimate Breakfast Treat for Any Occasion

ByBella Skye
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Introduction to Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Cinnamon roll casserole is a warm, gooey, and irresistible breakfast dish that transforms ordinary cinnamon rolls into a decadent, custardy French toast-style bake. Perfect for Christmas morning casseroles, brunches, and special occasions, this casserole combines the comforting flavors of sweet cinnamon rolls with creamy custard, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and easy to serve.

More Casseroles Recipes

What makes cinnamon roll casserole so special is its versatility. You can prepare it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning, making it ideal for holiday mornings, breakfast pitch in events, or breakfast for big groups. Its combination of soft, buttery cinnamon rolls and a custard soaked in cinnamon, vanilla, and cream creates a rich texture that’s impossible to resist.

Whether you are looking for breakfast luncheon ideas, easy holiday breakfast ideas, or a show-stopping dish for breakfast foods for a party, cinnamon roll casserole delivers flavor, ease, and a festive touch. This recipe is a must-have for anyone who loves cinnamon rolls breakfast traditions but wants a simple, make-ahead solution for large gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are many reasons this cinnamon roll casserole will become a favorite:

  • Effortless Preparation: Using store-bought or homemade cinnamon rolls, the casserole comes together in minutes.
  • Perfect for a Crowd: Ideal for breakfast for big groups, brunches, or holiday breakfasts.
  • Custardy and Comforting: The custard-soaked rolls are soft, tender, and melt in your mouth.
  • Versatile Flavors: Add fruits, nuts, or drizzles of glaze to customize the flavor.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the night before and bake in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.

This casserole combines simplicity with indulgence, giving you a dish that’s both elegant and comforting. It’s perfect for breakfast sweets lovers and anyone who enjoys a rich, satisfying brunch.

Cinnamon roll casserole

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Soaking Time: 10–15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 35–40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50–60 minutes
  • Servings: 8–10

The timing allows the custard to soak into the rolls and bake into a golden, creamy perfection, making it ideal for Christmas breakfast easy preparation or brunches with friends and family.

Ingredients

  • 8–10 cinnamon rolls, store-bought or homemade
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional toppings: icing from cinnamon rolls, powdered sugar, fresh berries, maple syrup

Substitution Notes

  • Milk and Cream: Almond, oat, or soy milk can replace dairy; coconut cream can replace heavy cream.
  • Cinnamon Rolls: Use gluten-free, homemade, or store-bought rolls.
  • Sweetener: Maple syrup or glaze instead of icing for a lighter version.
  • Add-ins: Berries, apples, or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Cinnamon roll casserole

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cinnamon rolls vector

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to ensure easy removal and even baking.

Cinnamon rolls vector

Step 2: Cut and Arrange Cinnamon Rolls

Cut each cinnamon roll into halves or quarters. Arrange the pieces evenly in the prepared dish, ensuring each portion gets a good mix of cinnamon swirl and soft dough.

Cinnamon rolls vector

Step 3: Prepare the Custard

In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully blended. The custard will soak into the cinnamon rolls, creating a soft, French toast-like texture.

Cinnamon rolls vector

Step 4: Pour Custard and Soak

Pour the custard evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces. Press lightly to ensure the rolls absorb the mixture. Let sit for 10–15 minutes to allow full absorption.

Cinnamon rolls vector

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown. Test doneness by inserting a knife; it should come out clean.

Cinnamon rolls vector

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touch

Remove from the oven and drizzle with icing or glaze. Sprinkle with powdered sugar or fresh berries for added sweetness and visual appeal. Serve warm for best results.

How to Serve

Cinnamon roll casserole is best served warm. Slice into squares for breakfast for big groups, brunch, or holiday mornings. Pair with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a full breakfast spread.

For parties or special occasions, present the casserole on a festive platter with optional toppings like fresh berries, maple syrup, or extra icing. It’s visually appealing and indulgent, making it ideal for breakfast pitch in events or Christmas morning gatherings.

Cinnamon roll casserole

Additional Tips

  • Let the custard soak for at least 10 minutes for a fully tender texture.
  • Use fresh cinnamon rolls for a richer flavor; store-bought ones are convenient and work perfectly.
  • For extra flavor, layer berries or nuts between rolls.
  • Avoid overbaking; the top should be golden, and the inside soft and custardy.
  • Assemble the night before and refrigerate for easy holiday breakfasts.

Recipe Variations

  • Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole with Berries: Add blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries between layers.
  • Maple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Casserole: Sprinkle chopped pecans and drizzle maple syrup on top.
  • Chocolate Cinnamon Roll Bake: Add chocolate chips to the custard mixture for an indulgent twist.
  • Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Casserole: Use gluten-free rolls for dietary needs.

Freezing and Storage

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Assemble unbaked casserole and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake fresh when needed.
  • Reheating: Thaw overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed. Individual slices can be microwaved.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 7g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Fiber: 1g

Values vary depending on the cinnamon rolls and toppings used.

Final Words

Cinnamon roll casserole is a decadent, comforting, and easy breakfast dish that elevates any brunch or holiday breakfast. Its custardy texture, sweet cinnamon flavors, and soft rolls make it irresistible for breakfast for Christmas morning, breakfast pitch in events, or brunch with family and friends.

This recipe is versatile, allowing customization with fruits, nuts, or chocolate, and works perfectly for breakfast luncheon ideas or easy holiday breakfast ideas. Its make-ahead convenience and ability to serve a crowd make it a stress-free option for home cooks wanting a special dish without the hassle.

Cinnamon roll casserole combines the best of cinnamon rolls breakfast traditions with a French toast bake twist, creating a dish that’s both nostalgic and indulgent. Its rich flavor, creamy texture, and visually appealing presentation make it a favorite for family gatherings, holidays, or any special breakfast occasion.

This casserole proves that breakfast sweets can be easy, delicious, and memorable. Keep this recipe in your repertoire for a show-stopping, crowd-pleasing dish that turns any morning into a celebration. Whether served warm on Christmas morning or for brunch with friends, cinnamon roll casserole is a timeless recipe that delivers comfort, flavor, and joy in every bite.

FAQ’s

Yes, assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning.

Absolutely. They are convenient and produce delicious results. Homemade rolls give richer flavor.

Yes, berries, apples, or nuts can be added for extra texture and taste.

Definitely. This casserole is festive, indulgent, and ideal for Christmas morning, brunch, or breakfast for big groups.

Yes, freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Bake fresh before serving.

Cinnamon Roll Casserole: The Ultimate Breakfast Treat for Any Occasion
Print

Cinnamon Roll Casserole: The Ultimate Breakfast Treat for Any Occasion

Recipe by Bella Skye
Servings

8

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes
Calories

320

kcal

Ingredients

  • 8–10 cinnamon rolls, store-bought or homemade

  • 4 large eggs

  • 1 cup whole milk

  • ½ cup heavy cream

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • Pinch of salt

  • Optional toppings: icing from cinnamon rolls, powdered sugar, fresh berries, maple syrup

Directions

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to ensure easy removal and even baking.
  • Cut each cinnamon roll into halves or quarters. Arrange the pieces evenly in the prepared dish, ensuring each portion gets a good mix of cinnamon swirl and soft dough.
  • In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully blended. The custard will soak into the cinnamon rolls, creating a soft, French toast-like texture.
  • Pour the custard evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces. Press lightly to ensure the rolls absorb the mixture. Let sit for 10–15 minutes to allow full absorption.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown. Test doneness by inserting a knife; it should come out clean.
  • Remove from the oven and drizzle with icing or glaze. Sprinkle with powdered sugar or fresh berries for added sweetness and visual appeal. Serve warm for best results.

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