If you’re craving a breakfast that feels like a hug on a plate, this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine the sweet, gooey delight of cinnamon rolls transformed into a warm, custardy casserole that bakes up golden and irresistible. The blend of soft cinnamon rolls soaked in a dreamy custard, baked until perfectly puffed, and topped with a rich cream cheese glaze is simply unforgettable. Perfect for weekend brunches or special occasions, this dish brings comfort and joy in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe! The ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, but each one plays a vital role in balancing flavors and creating that luscious texture we all adore. From the soft cinnamon rolls to the rich custard and creamy glaze, every element comes together harmoniously.
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (17.5 oz each): These are the star of the dish, providing that classic cinnamon swirl and a buttery, tender base.
- 4 large eggs: Eggs bind everything together and help create the rich custard that soaks those cinnamon rolls beautifully.
- 0.5 cup heavy cream: Adds luxurious creaminess and depth to the custard mixture.
- 0.25 cup milk: Lightens the custard just enough and keeps it silky smooth.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Boosts the cinnamon flavor, giving the casserole a warm, cozy aroma.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Infuses the custard with a sweet, fragrant note that complements the cinnamon rolls perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and a hint of that rich maple flavor great with cinnamon.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: Creates a dreamy glaze that’s tangy and sweet, topping the casserole beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Helps the glaze become silky and smooth for a perfect drizzle.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the glaze without graininess, ensuring a delicate finish.
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk (for thinning glaze): Adjusts the glaze consistency to your liking, for easy drizzling.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Cinnamon Rolls
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish so nothing sticks and everything bakes evenly. Then, cut each cinnamon roll into quarters and spread them out in the dish. This ensures each bite has plenty of those beloved cinnamon swirls ready to soak up the custard.
Step 2: Whisk the Custard Together
In a mixing bowl, combine the eggs, heavy cream, milk, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended. This custard is what will soak into the cinnamon rolls and transform them into a creamy French toast dream.
Step 3: Pour Custard Over Cinnamon Rolls
Carefully pour the custard mixture over your arranged cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish. Press the rolls gently down with a spatula or your hands to make sure they soak up plenty of that flavorful custard. This step is key for that delightful, custardy texture.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Puffy
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s puffed up, golden on top, and smells absolutely amazing. Let it cool slightly before moving to the glaze step—this helps everything set just right.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze
While your casserole is baking, mix the softened cream cheese, melted butter, powdered sugar, and 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk in a bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy, adjusting the milk to reach the perfect consistency for drizzling. This glaze adds a luscious, tangy sweetness that elevates the whole dish.
Step 6: Drizzle Glaze and Finish with Icing
Once the casserole has cooled slightly, drizzle the cream cheese glaze generously over the top. For an extra special touch, add the reserved cinnamon roll icing over the warm casserole, and if you love sweetness, a little more maple syrup on top seals the deal.
Step 7: Slice and Serve Warm
Cut your casserole into portions and serve it warm, so you get that melt-in-your-mouth, cozy comfort with every bite. Trust me, this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To really wow your guests—or yourself—consider garnishing with fresh berries like raspberries or sliced strawberries to provide a bright contrast. A sprinkle of chopped nuts adds delightful crunch, and a dusting of powdered sugar gives a pretty, bakery-style finish. These simple touches make your casserole look as amazing as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with savory sides to balance its sweetness. Crispy bacon, sausage links, or even scrambled eggs with fresh herbs offer a savory counterpoint that makes the breakfast much more satisfying. A fresh fruit salad on the side also adds a refreshing burst of color and flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun brunch presentation, serve the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe buffet style with toppings laid out for guests to customize. Mini mason jars or individual ramekins layered with pieces of the casserole and glaze can turn it into a charming, portable treat. Don’t be afraid to add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled helps maintain its texture and flavor, making it just as delicious when you reheat it for another easy breakfast or snack.
Freezing
If you want to plan ahead, this casserole freezes wonderfully. After baking and cooling, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months, so you can enjoy that cozy cinnamon roll flavor anytime you like.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through, to keep that crispy top and soft interior. Alternatively, the microwave works well for a quick fix—just be mindful not to overheat so the custard stays creamy and comforting.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of refrigerated ones?
Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls work beautifully in this recipe and give you complete control over the flavors and ingredients, making the casserole even more special.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the milk, cream, and butter with your favorite dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk and dairy-free margarine. Just make sure your cream cheese glaze is also dairy-free or try a simple powdered sugar glaze.
Can I prepare the casserole the night before baking?
Definitely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Just bake it in the morning as directed for a stress-free breakfast.
What if I don’t have maple syrup on hand?
Honey or agave syrup can be good substitutes, but maple syrup adds a unique depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with cinnamon rolls, so try to use it if you can.
How do I prevent the casserole from becoming soggy?
Pressing down the cinnamon rolls gently into the custard helps them soak up just the right amount of liquid. Baking uncovered allows excess moisture to evaporate, ensuring a perfect texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe that makes it a beloved breakfast treat. It’s warm, sweet, and comforting in the best possible way, turning any morning into a special occasion. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find yourself making it a weekly tradition!
Print
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole combines the best of two breakfast favorites into one irresistible dish. Soft, gooey cinnamon rolls are cut into pieces and soaked in a rich custard infused with cinnamon and maple syrup, then baked until golden and puffed. Topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze and the original icing from the cinnamon rolls, this casserole is perfect for weekend brunch or special occasions that call for a sweet, comforting treat.
Ingredients
Casserole
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (17.5 oz each)
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
Glaze
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk (for thinning glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cut Cinnamon Rolls: Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters and evenly spread the pieces in the prepared baking dish.
- Make Custard Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until smooth and well combined.
- Pour Custard Over Rolls: Pour this custard evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces. Gently press the pieces down to soak thoroughly in the custard.
- Bake the Casserole: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes or until the casserole is puffed up and turns a beautiful golden brown. Allow it to cool slightly after baking.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Glaze: In a bowl, mix together softened cream cheese, melted butter, powdered sugar, and 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk until smooth and spreadable. Adjust milk quantity to reach your desired glaze consistency.
- Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the warm casserole. Optionally, add the reserved icing from the cinnamon rolls and an extra drizzle of maple syrup on top. Slice into portions and serve warm for the best experience.
Notes
- For best flavor, serve the casserole warm fresh out of the oven.
- Using refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing simplifies preparation and adds convenience.
- If you prefer a thicker glaze, reduce the amount of milk; for a thinner glaze, add more milk gradually.
- To make ahead, assemble the casserole the night before, cover and refrigerate, then bake in the morning (add a few extra minutes to baking time if baking from chilled).
- This casserole freezes well; reheat in the oven until warm before glazing.
