There is something utterly irresistible about waking up to a warm, comforting dish that fills your kitchen with the sweet, spicy aroma of cinnamon and vanilla. This Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe combines the classic joy of cinnamon rolls with the ease of a casserole, making it the perfect no-fuss brunch or special breakfast treat. Soft, gooey cinnamon roll pieces baked in a rich custard and topped with a luscious drizzle of icing—each bite feels like a loving hug from the inside out. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply indulging in a weekend morning, this recipe will quickly become your new favorite indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you; each one plays a vital role in creating that dreamy texture and warm flavor that make this Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe so special. From the buttery richness of the cinnamon rolls to the creamy custard mixture, every element harmonizes perfectly.
- Cinnamon rolls with icing (2 cans, 12.4 oz each): The star of the casserole with sweet cinnamon swirls and a built-in icing topping that adds convenience and flavor.
- Large eggs (4): These provide structure and richness to the custard that binds the casserole together.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Adds creaminess and helps make the custard silky and smooth.
- Heavy cream (1/4 cup, optional): For an extra indulgent texture, this adds luxurious creaminess but you can skip it if you prefer lighter.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic notes that highlight the cinnamon perfectly.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Amplifies that classic cinnamon flavor and ties the whole dessert together.
- Maple syrup (2 tablespoons, optional): A sweet touch that adds complexity and depth without overpowering.
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter: Essential for greasing the pan so your casserole bakes up beautifully without sticking.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease a 9 by 13-inch baking dish thoroughly with non-stick spray or butter to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick and comes out clean after baking. This sets the foundation for a perfect casserole texture and easy serving later.
Step 2: Cut the Cinnamon Rolls
Now, open the cans of cinnamon rolls and gently remove the rolls, reserving the icing for later. Cut each roll into quarters to allow the custard to soak the pieces evenly and bake thoroughly. This way, every bite is packed with soft, cinnamon-swirled goodness.
Step 3: Layer the Cinnamon Roll Pieces
Spread the cinnamon roll quarters evenly in your prepared baking dish. Make sure to distribute them well so the custard can envelop each piece properly, resulting in a uniform, gooey casserole that bakes up golden and inviting.
Step 4: Whisk Together the Custard
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream (if using), vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and maple syrup until smooth and well combined. This custard mixture is what transforms the cinnamon rolls into a luscious breakfast bake, deeply infusing every bite with creams and spice.
Step 5: Pour the Custard Over the Rolls
Gently pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish, ensuring each piece is nicely covered. This allows the cinnamon rolls to soak up the custard during baking, melding into a soft, rich casserole.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake the casserole uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. You’ll notice the intoxicating aroma filling your kitchen as the custard sets and the edges turn beautifully caramelized — a sign that your Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is almost ready to enjoy.
Step 7: Add the Icing Drizzle
Once baked, let the casserole cool slightly for 5 to 10 minutes to set and become easier to serve. Then, drizzle the reserved icing generously over the top for that iconic sweet finish you expect from cinnamon rolls.
Step 8: Serve Warm and Savor
This casserole is best enjoyed warm, fresh out of the oven. Each forkful gives you that comforting cinnamon roll flavor elevated by custard and a sticky sweet glaze, making for a truly delightful breakfast experience.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding just a few extra garnishes can elevate your Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe beautifully. A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts adds a pleasant crunch, while a handful of fresh berries introduces a burst of freshness and tartness. For the ultimate indulgence, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream complements the warm casserole perfectly.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple, bright sides that balance its rich sweetness. Fresh fruit salad or citrusy orange segments provide a crisp contrast, while crispy bacon or sausage links offer savory balance that makes the meal feel completely satisfying without being over the top.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your guests, try serving individual portions of the Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe in ramekins for a charming presentation. You can also add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on each portion before serving. Another fun idea is to use flavored whipped cream infused with a spoonful of maple syrup or cinnamon to complement the casserole’s natural flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover Cinnamon Roll Casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent make-ahead breakfast option for busy mornings.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well, too. For best results, bake it first, cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or warm the entire casserole in a 325-degree Fahrenheit (165-degree Celsius) oven until heated through. You’ll get back all the cozy, freshly baked goodness without any extra fuss.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of canned for this Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls work beautifully and can add a lovely personal touch. Just make sure they are pre-baked and slightly cooled before cutting and assembling to ensure the custard soaks in properly.
Is there a way to make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the milk and heavy cream for your favorite plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free margarine or spray for greasing. The casserole will still be delicious, though the texture may be slightly different.
Can I prepare this Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe the night before?
You can! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time when you’re ready to cook it in the morning.
What can I use instead of maple syrup in the custard?
If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or agave nectar are great alternatives that complement the cinnamon flavor nicely without overpowering the dish.
How many servings does this Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe typically make?
This recipe serves about 8 people, making it perfect for family breakfasts or brunch get-togethers. Portions can be adjusted easily depending on your crowd size.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is a warm hug on a plate that’s simple to make but impressively delicious. It brings the nostalgia of classic cinnamon rolls into a dish that’s effortless to prepare and share. Whether for a holiday breakfast or a lazy weekend treat, don’t hesitate to give it a try—you might just fall in love all over again with one of the sweetest, coziest dishes around.
Print
Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a warm, comforting breakfast bake perfect for lazy mornings or special occasions. Featuring soft, gooey cinnamon rolls soaked in a rich custard mixture and baked to golden perfection, this casserole is drizzled with sweet icing that adds the perfect finishing touch. Easy to prepare and perfect for serving a crowd, it’s a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls.
Ingredients
Casserole Ingredients
- 2 cans (12.4 oz each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
- 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)
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter for greasing the pan
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly with non-stick cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Cinnamon Rolls: Open the cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls and carefully remove the rolls. Reserve the provided icing for later use. Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters to create bite-sized pieces.
- Arrange Rolls: Spread the cut cinnamon roll pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they cover the bottom layer uniformly for even baking.
- Make Custard Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream (if using), vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and maple syrup until well combined and smooth.
- Pour Custard Over Rolls: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish, allowing the rolls to soak up the liquid mixture.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes. The casserole should be golden brown on top and set in the center when done.
- Cool and Add Icing: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. Once slightly cooled, drizzle the reserved icing generously over the top.
- Serve: Serve the cinnamon roll casserole warm. Enjoy this decadent and easy breakfast treat!
Notes
- Using heavy cream is optional but adds richness to the custard mixture.
- Maple syrup enhances sweetness and complements cinnamon flavor but can be omitted for a less sweet dish.
- Letting the casserole cool slightly before icing prevents the frosting from melting completely into the bake.
- Feel free to add chopped nuts or raisins for added texture if desired.
- This casserole can be refrigerated overnight before baking to allow flavors to meld, adjusting bake time accordingly.
