If you are looking for a warm, comforting breakfast that feels like a special treat but is surprisingly easy to make, this Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It takes those soft, sweet cinnamon rolls we all love and transforms them into a delightful casserole that’s perfect for sharing with family or friends. The combination of tender cinnamon roll bites soaked in a luscious cinnamon-vanilla custard makes every forkful heavenly. Plus, with just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up this cozy breakfast bake in under an hour and have a gorgeous dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe relies on a few very straightforward but essential ingredients, each playing a key role in the flavor and texture. From the ready-to-go cinnamon rolls that bring sweetness and softness, to the creamy custard mixture that seeps into every nook and cranny, these ingredients come together in perfect harmony.
- Refrigerated cinnamon rolls (2 cans, 8-count): The star of the dish with built-in dough, cinnamon, and creamy icing for the finishing touch.
- Large eggs (4): Provide structure and richness to the custard that binds the casserole.
- Heavy cream (½ cup): Adds luxury and creaminess to the custard.
- Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons): Amplifies the warm, spicy cinnamon flavor throughout the casserole.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Elevates the overall aroma and taste, giving a sweet depth.
- Maple syrup (¼ cup): Infuses a subtle natural sweetness that complements the cinnamon and sugar.
- Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons): Ensures an even sweet balance in the custard.
- Melted butter (1 tablespoon): Used for greasing the pan to prevent sticking and add a bit of buttery flavor.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and generously grease it with melted butter. This step is important to make sure your casserole doesn’t stick and helps develop a slight golden crust along the edges.
Step 2: Cut and Arrange the Cinnamon Rolls
Open your refrigerated cinnamon roll cans and cut each cinnamon roll into quarters. This breaks them into smaller, bite-sized pieces that soak up the custard beautifully. Spread these pieces evenly in the greased baking dish to create an even base for your casserole.
Step 3: Mix the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and granulated sugar. Whisk until the mixture feels smooth and well combined. This custard is what will soak into the cinnamon roll pieces, adding moisture and making the casserole rich and tender.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in your baking dish. Let it settle for a moment so the custard starts to absorb. Then place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’re aiming for the casserole to be set (no wobbling in the middle) and beautifully golden on top.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch
Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before drizzling on the sweet icing that comes with the cinnamon rolls. This little glaze adds the perfect finishing touch, making every bite irresistibly sweet and creamy. Serve it warm for the best experience.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
While the classic icing drizzle is incredible, you can jazz up your Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe with chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an added crunch. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon right before serving can also add a lovely visual and flavor boost.
Side Dishes
This casserole is rich and flavorful on its own, but pairing it with fresh fruit like berries or sliced oranges can add a fresh, tangy contrast that balances the sweetness. A side of crispy bacon or sausage is perfect if you want a savory touch to round out your brunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For festive occasions, try serving individual portions in small ramekins for an elegant look. You could also layer the cinnamon roll pieces with sliced apples or pears before pouring the custard, adding a delicious fruity twist. This Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is versatile enough to invite your own creative flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, no worries! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole keeps well and can be enjoyed for up to 3 days, making it a great option for busy mornings.
Freezing
You can freeze individual portions by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. For best flavor and texture, consume within 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe in the microwave for a quick fix or in a 325°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Reheat gently to maintain that soft, custardy texture without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of refrigerated ones?
Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls work beautifully. Just cut them into quarters and proceed as directed. It’s a great way to add a personal touch if you love making dough from scratch.
Is it okay to substitute milk for heavy cream?
You can swap heavy cream with whole milk for a lighter version, but keep in mind the casserole will be slightly less rich and creamy. Heavy cream really helps to create that indulgent custard texture.
Can I add other flavors or mix-ins?
Definitely! Adding chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even chocolate chips before pouring the custard can create fun variations. Just be mindful not to overload the dish so the custard can still soak evenly.
What can I use if I don’t have maple syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup on hand, honey or a light corn syrup can work as substitutes. Maple syrup brings a special depth of flavor, but these alternatives will maintain sweetness and moisture.
How long does this casserole stay good after baking?
When stored properly in the fridge, this Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe stays fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. Enjoy leftovers cold or reheated, whichever you prefer!
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly inviting about waking up to a warm, gooey casserole studded with cinnamon and drenched in sweet icing, and this Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe delivers exactly that vibe. It brings effortless joy to any breakfast or brunch table and is guaranteed to become a new favorite for your family and friends. So go ahead, give this recipe a try—your mornings will never be the same again!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a delightful and easy breakfast bake that transforms classic cinnamon rolls into a warm, custard-soaked treat. Perfect for brunch or holiday mornings, it combines soft cinnamon rolls with a rich mixture of eggs, cream, and maple syrup, baked to golden perfection and topped with sweet icing for a truly indulgent start to your day.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Rolls
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls (8-count, with icing)
Custard Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Other
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for greasing pan)
Instructions
- Prep the Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter to prevent sticking and help with easy serving.
- Prepare Cinnamon Rolls: Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into quarters. Spread the cinnamon roll pieces evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a base layer of delicious cinnamon dough.
- Mix the Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined, which will soak into the rolls and add rich flavor.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish, ensuring all pieces are saturated to create a soft, custardy texture after baking.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is set through and the top is golden brown, indicating that it is fully cooked and ready to enjoy.
- Add Icing and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly, then drizzle the included icing packet from the cinnamon roll cans over the top. Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts before baking for a crunchy texture contrast.
- For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle caramel sauce or cream cheese glaze over the casserole instead of the included icing.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before and refrigerated overnight for a convenient make-ahead breakfast.
