If you love the warm, gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls but want a fun twist for your next breakfast or brunch, this Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine soft, buttery pieces of cinnamon rolls soaked in a rich, creamy custard, baked to golden perfection, and then topped with sweet icing that melts into every bite. It’s the perfect combination of comfort and ease, making it a sure crowd-pleaser whether you’re feeding a family or spoiling yourself on a slow weekend morning.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious casserole, and the best part is how simple and straightforward everything is. Each component plays an essential role, from providing that signature cinnamon sweetness to delivering rich creaminess and a perfect texture.
- Refrigerated cinnamon rolls (2 cans, 8-count each): These are the star of the show, bringing soft, fluffy dough layered with cinnamon and sugar.
- Large eggs (4): Eggs bind the casserole together and give it a custardy richness.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Adds silky texture and creaminess to the custard base.
- Milk (1/4 cup): Lightens the custard mixture without sacrificing flavor.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the custard just enough to complement the cinnamon rolls.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon): Packs in the warm spice that makes this casserole truly irresistible.
- Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Enhances all the flavors with its sweet, aromatic touch.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Drizzled on top to create a golden, buttery crust.
- Optional chopped pecans or walnuts: Add a lovely crunch and nuttiness to finish off the dish.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Cinnamon Rolls
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish so your casserole won’t stick. Open your cans of cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into quarters, creating bite-sized pieces perfect for soaking up the custard. Spread these pieces evenly across the prepared dish, forming the delicious base of your casserole.
Step 2: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the eggs, heavy cream, milk, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk everything until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined. This custard will seep into the cinnamon roll pieces and bake into a fluffy, creamy layer that’s pure comfort in every bite.
Step 3: Assemble and Add Butter
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll quarters in the dish, ensuring every piece gets soaked. Next, drizzle the melted butter over the top, which will help create a golden, slightly crispy crust. If you’re adding chopped nuts, sprinkle them on now for a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place your casserole in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and set in the center. The sweet aroma filling your kitchen will be too tempting to resist! Once baked, allow it to cool for about 5 to 10 minutes before moving on to the next delicious step.
Step 5: Drizzle Icing and Serve
Use the icing that came with your cinnamon roll cans and generously drizzle it over the warm casserole. This final touch melts into the surface, making every slice a gooey, cinnamon-sweet sensation that’s just waiting to be devoured.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
While the icing is the classic way to top this casserole, you can get creative by adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a few fresh berries for a pop of color, or even a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. Nuts like pecans or walnuts add texture and enhance the flavor, making your presentation as delightful as the taste.
Side Dishes
This Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe shines on its own but pairs beautifully with fresh fruit salad, a cup of rich coffee, or even a glass of orange juice to balance the sweetness and refresh your palate. Light, citrusy sides or some crispy bacon on the side can add contrast and variety to your brunch spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your casserole straight from the pan for a rustic feel, or cut it into individual squares and plate it neatly with a drizzle of extra icing or glaze on top. For festive gatherings, consider topping each piece with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream to turn breakfast into dessert—a delightful surprise for guests of all ages.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, maintaining its moist texture and sweet cinnamon flavor. Reheating gently will bring back that freshly baked goodness.
Freezing
If you want a convenient breakfast option on a busy morning, you can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Wrap it securely in foil and plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, pop your portion into a microwave for about 30 seconds to one minute or warm the entire casserole in a 325°F oven for 15–20 minutes until heated through. Adding a little extra drizzle of icing after warming never hurts to recapture that bakery-fresh feel.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls for this casserole?
Absolutely! While using refrigerated cinnamon rolls is a huge time saver, homemade cinnamon rolls can add a personal touch and even richer flavor. Just make sure they’re cut into quarters and not overproofed so they hold up well in the custard.
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or any plant-based milk you prefer. The texture might be slightly lighter, but the casserole will still be delicious and comforting.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before baking?
Definitely! Assembling it the night before allows the cinnamon roll pieces to soak even more in the custard, enhancing the flavor and texture. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate, then bake fresh in the morning.
What if I want it less sweet?
To tone down the sweetness, reduce the granulated sugar slightly and use less of the icing drizzle at the end. This way, you can tailor the casserole to your taste without losing that iconic cinnamon flavor.
Can I add fruit to the Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe?
Yes, adding fresh or dried fruit like blueberries, chopped apples, or raisins to the base before pouring the custard can give a delightful twist. Just be mindful not to add too much fruit so the casserole still bakes evenly.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is truly one of those dishes that makes mornings feel extra special with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, surprising someone you love, or treating yourself to breakfast bliss, it delivers every time with its cozy warmth and irresistible flavors. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and make it a cherished part of your brunch repertoire!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a deliciously indulgent breakfast or brunch recipe that transforms refrigerated cinnamon rolls into a warm, custardy bake. Combining the sweet cinnamon-spiced rolls with a rich egg mixture, it’s topped with melted butter and optional nuts, then baked until golden and finished with the cinnamon icing for a comforting treat perfect for mornings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Casserole Ingredients
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (8-count each)
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Optional Toppings
- Chopped pecans or walnuts for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Cinnamon Rolls: Open the cinnamon roll cans and cut each roll into quarters. Spread these pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish, ensuring a uniform layer for even baking.
- Mix Egg Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Combine and Add Toppings: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces to soak them. Drizzle the melted butter on top. If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts to add crunch and flavor.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and set firmly in the center when gently shaken.
- Cool and Finish: Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes after baking. Drizzle the included icing over the top just before serving to add the signature sweet glaze.
Notes
- For an extra indulgent finish, top with cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
- You can assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it fresh in the morning for convenience.
