If you love the warm, gooey delight of cinnamon rolls and want to serve something that feels like a cozy hug on a plate, then this Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines fluffy, tender cinnamon rolls baked in a rich custard with that signature swirl of cinnamon sweetness, all topped off with a luscious drizzle of icing. Perfect for weekend brunches, special occasions, or anytime you crave a sweet, comforting breakfast treat that’s easy to make and irresistible to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe uses a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that work together beautifully to create amazing layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role, from the cinnamon rolls that bring soft, spiced sweetness, to the custard that soaks in all that goodness, making it extra rich and tender.
- Refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (2 cans, 12.4 oz each): These are the star of the dish, giving it that classic cinnamon swirl and a soft, fluffy texture after baking.
- Large eggs (4): Eggs bind everything together and add richness to the custard that soaks into the cinnamon rolls.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Milk adds moisture and lightness, helping create the perfect custard consistency.
- Heavy cream (1/4 cup, optional): For an even creamier custard that’s indulgent without being heavy.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Adds a warm, aromatic backdrop that enhances the cinnamon and sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Intensifies the cinnamon flavor, giving the casserole that cozy, spiced kick.
- Maple syrup (2 tablespoons, optional): Adds a subtle natural sweetness and depth to the custard.
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter: Essential for greasing the baking dish to prevent sticking and help with browning.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). While it’s warming up, generously grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter. This step ensures your casserole doesn’t stick and gives the cinnamon rolls a lovely golden crust on the edges.
Step 2: Cut and Arrange the Cinnamon Rolls
Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and carefully remove the rolls, reserving the icing packets for later. Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters to ensure they bake evenly and soak up the custard perfectly. Arrange all the cut pieces evenly in your prepared baking dish, spreading them out so each piece can absorb plenty of that dreamy custard.
Step 3: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream (if using), vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and maple syrup until fully combined. This custard will soak into the cinnamon roll pieces, making them irresistibly tender and flavorful.
Step 4: Pour Custard Over Cinnamon Rolls
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll quarters in the baking dish. Gently press or nudge the roll pieces down a bit to help them soak the custard, but don’t stir—keep that beautiful swirl intact!
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Set
Bake the casserole uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the custard is fully set in the middle. You’ll start to smell that incredible cinnamon aroma filling your kitchen—a sign that you’re almost ready to dig in!
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touch—the Icing
Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 to 10 minutes. Drizzle the reserved icing generously over the warm casserole so it melts slightly, creating a perfectly sweet glaze that brings the whole dish together in decadent harmony.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe warm and get ready to wow everyone with this crowd-pleaser that tastes like a bakery hit, but is so simple to make right at home.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To add an extra layer of appeal, fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts lend a delightful crunch. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh berries on the side can also brighten up the plate and add a pop of color.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines all on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider fresh fruit salad or a batch of crispy bacon for a sweet-and-savory balance. A hot cup of coffee or a creamy latte pairs beautifully alongside, making it a perfect brunch experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation at brunch or holidays, serve the casserole in individual ramekins so everyone gets their own perfectly portioned cinnamon bliss. You can also layer the cinnamon rolls and custard in a clear glass baking dish to showcase those tempting cinnamon swirls before baking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole holds its moisture well and reheats beautifully without becoming dry.
Freezing
You can freeze the Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe either before baking (cover tightly with foil) or after baking once cooled. For best results, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or warm the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Adding a splash of milk before warming can help restore custard creaminess.
FAQs
Can I make this Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the milk and heavy cream with your favorite plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free cinnamon rolls to make this dish vegan-friendly and just as delicious.
Do I have to use canned cinnamon rolls?
Canned cinnamon rolls keep things super simple and consistent, but you can use homemade cinnamon rolls if you prefer. Just be sure they are fully baked and cooled before cutting and assembling the casserole.
What is the best time to serve this casserole?
This dish is perfect for brunch, weekend breakfasts, or even as a sweet dessert. It’s especially popular for holiday mornings when you want a crowd-pleasing recipe that doesn’t require staying up all night to bake.
Can I add other flavors to the custard?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding a pinch of nutmeg, a splash of orange zest, or swapping maple syrup for honey to put your own spin on this classic Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe.
How do I make sure the casserole cooks evenly?
Cutting the cinnamon rolls into smaller chunks and spreading them evenly in the pan helps the custard soak in uniformly. Also, don’t cover the casserole while baking to allow the top to brown nicely and cook through completely.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got this wonderfully simple yet indulgent Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe, it’s time to gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a batch of warm, cinnamon-spiced happiness. Whether for family, friends, or just because you deserve a sweet morning, this dish will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Enjoy every gooey, cinnamon-scented bite!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a delightful and easy-to-make breakfast or brunch dish that transforms classic cinnamon rolls into a baked custardy comfort food. Combining fluffy cinnamon rolls with a creamy egg mixture and finished with the sweet drizzle of icing, this casserole offers a warm and indulgent start to your day, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Rolls
- 2 cans (12.4 oz each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
Custard Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional)
Other
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter for greasing the pan
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter to prevent the casserole from sticking.
- Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls: Open the canned cinnamon rolls and carefully remove the icing to be used later. Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Spread the cut cinnamon roll pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even layer for baking.
- Make the Custard Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, optional heavy cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and optional maple syrup until smooth and well combined.
- Pour Mixture Over Rolls: Evenly pour the custard mixture over the cinnamon roll pieces in the dish, allowing them to soak slightly.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown on top and set in the center.
- Cool and Add Icing: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes to set. Then, drizzle the reserved icing evenly over the warm casserole.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the cinnamon roll casserole warm for the best taste and texture. Enjoy this cozy, sweet dish!
Notes
- You can omit the heavy cream and maple syrup for a lighter version but they add richness and sweetness.
- Letting the casserole cool slightly before icing helps prevent the icing from melting away completely.
- This recipe serves 8, perfect for a family breakfast or brunch.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the cinnamon rolls to keep the quarters neat.
- Feel free to add nuts or raisins to the casserole for additional texture and flavor.
