This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole is simply a breakfast dream come true! It’s made with fluffy cinnamon rolls soaked in a creamy custard and baked until golden.
What’s not to love? It smells so good while baking, you might find it hard to wait! I like to sprinkle a little extra icing on top—yummy! Perfect for gatherings or lazy Sundays!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cinnamon Rolls: Use your favorite store-bought cinnamon rolls for ease. I like using refrigerated ones because they’re super soft. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also make homemade rolls!
Eggs: You’ll need four large eggs for structure. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use egg substitutes (1/4 cup equals one egg), but keep in mind the texture will be different.
Milk & Cream: Whole milk adds richness, while heavy cream gives it a luxurious texture. You can substitute with 1 ½ cups of half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like almond milk or oat milk for a lighter version.
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness, but you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor. If you need it to be sugar-free, consider a sugar substitute that can be used in baking.
How Do I Ensure a Perfectly Baked Casserole?
Baking this cinnamon roll casserole to perfection is key. Make sure to pour the egg mixture evenly and don’t rush the soaking time. Here are some helpful tips:
- Ensure the oven is preheated for even cooking.
- Press down on the cinnamon roll pieces gently to help them soak in the mixture.
- Check for doneness using a toothpick; it should come out clean when inserted in the center.
Let it cool slightly before serving to make cutting easier! This dish is best enjoyed warm, and the extra icing takes it to the next level. Enjoy!
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 8 cinnamon rolls (store-bought, refrigerated or frozen, unbaked)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing the baking dish)
For Serving:
- Maple syrup
- Optional: additional icing or cream cheese frosting for drizzling
Time Estimate:
This scrumptious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 35-45 minutes to bake. Allow a little time for it to cool before serving, making the total time about 1 hour. Perfect for a cozy brunch or a family breakfast gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange the Cinnamon Rolls:
Open your package of cinnamon rolls and cut each one into quarters. Spread them evenly in the greased baking dish, making sure not to overcrowd them.
3. Make the Custard Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
4. Soak the Cinnamon Rolls:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the quartered cinnamon rolls. Gently press down on the rolls with a spatula to make sure they soak up the custard mixture. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes so the rolls can absorb all that yummy goodness!
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for around 35-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the custard is set, the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, drizzled with maple syrup and your choice of icing or cream cheese frosting for a delightful finish. Enjoy this warm, gooey goodness with family and friends!
This casserole truly brings the flavors of cinnamon rolls and the comfort of French toast together, making it a cozy breakfast treat that everyone will love!
Can I Use Frozen Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! Just make sure to let them thaw beforehand if they’re frozen. Overnight in the fridge works great, or you can let them sit at room temperature for about 2 hours before cutting and using them in the recipe.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate it overnight and then bake it in the morning. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, or even use whole milk as a substitute. However, keep in mind that using milk may result in a slightly less creamy texture.