Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe

There’s something truly magical about waking up to the sweet scent of cinnamon swirling through the air — especially when it means breakfast is already half-prepared. This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole brings together two breakfast favorites — gooey cinnamon rolls and rich, custardy French toast — in one irresistibly comforting dish. It’s the kind of recipe made for slow mornings, family gatherings, or holiday brunches when you want something special but stress-free.

Inspired by classic bakery cinnamon rolls and the nostalgic feel of a Sunday breakfast, this casserole captures all the cozy warmth of home cooking. It’s baked to golden perfection with soft layers of cinnamon-spiced rolls soaked in a creamy vanilla custard, then drizzled with a sweet glaze that ties it all together. Whether served on Christmas morning or during a lazy weekend brunch, this dish is sure to become a new family tradition.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re searching for a breakfast recipe that delivers both flavor and convenience, this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole checks every box. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

• Effortless Preparation: Minimal prep time and simple ingredients make this casserole perfect for busy mornings or overnight baking.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning for an easy, no-rush breakfast.

• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Sweet, cinnamon-spiced, and topped with a creamy glaze — every bite is comfort on a plate.

• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy breakfast at home, a potluck, or a festive brunch, this casserole always impresses.

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Ingredients

• 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing)

• 6 large eggs

• 1 cup whole milk

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey (optional for extra sweetness)

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Topping (optional but recommended):

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

• Extra icing (from cinnamon roll package) or a simple homemade glaze

Homemade Glaze (if desired):

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2 tablespoons milk

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

2. Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls:
   Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and set the icing packets aside. Cut each roll into quarters and place the pieces evenly into the prepared baking dish.

3. Make the Custard Mixture:
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.

4. Add Sweetness and Flavor:
   Whisk in the melted butter and brown sugar until combined. If you prefer a sweeter casserole, add maple syrup or honey.

5. Assemble the Casserole:
   Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish. Gently press down with a spatula to ensure all pieces soak up the custard.

6. Optional Topping:
   Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top for added texture and crunch.

7. Bake:
   Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

8. Prepare the Glaze:
   While the casserole bakes, prepare your glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.

9. Add the Finishing Touch:
   Once baked, let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes. Drizzle the icing from the cinnamon roll cans or your homemade glaze over the top before serving.

10. Serve Warm:
    Slice into squares and serve warm. Pair with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for the perfect morning treat.

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Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 45 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour

• Yield: Serves 8–10

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Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole

• Use Day-Old Rolls for More Texture: If you prefer a firmer texture, use slightly stale cinnamon rolls or let the cut pieces sit out uncovered for 30 minutes before baking.

• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to sit for about 10–15 minutes after baking helps it firm up and makes slicing easier.

• Add Fresh Fruit: Top with sliced bananas, berries, or baked apples for a fresh contrast to the sweetness.

• Double the Glaze: If you love that classic cinnamon roll icing, make extra — drizzle some before serving and save some for topping individual portions.

• Make It Overnight: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake it straight from the fridge (add 5–10 extra minutes of baking time).

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Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a showstopper on its own, but a few accompaniments can make your breakfast table even more delightful:

• With Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside a fruit salad or fresh berries to balance the sweetness.

• With Yogurt or Whipped Cream: Add a dollop for a creamy touch that complements the cinnamon and vanilla flavors.

• As a Dessert: Warm it up and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent after-dinner treat.

Whether served at a brunch buffet or enjoyed with family at home, every slice is a sweet celebration of comfort food at its finest.

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Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, try one of these fun variations to switch things up:

• Apple Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole: Add diced apples and a sprinkle of extra cinnamon before baking for a cozy, fall-inspired twist.

• Blueberry Cream Cheese Version: Layer in fresh blueberries and small cubes of cream cheese for a fruity, tangy balance.

• Caramel Pecan Delight: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before baking, then sprinkle with toasted pecans.

• Pumpkin Spice Edition: Add 1/4 cup pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice to the custard mixture for a seasonal favorite.

• Chocolate Chip Twist: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips between the layers before baking for a fun, dessert-like version.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Freezer:

To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating:

Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30–45 seconds or warm the entire dish in the oven at 325°F for 15–20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.

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Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 340

• Protein: 8g

• Carbohydrates: 45g

• Fat: 14g

• Sugar: 26g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sodium: 410mg

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Make-Ahead Option

One of the best parts of this recipe is how well it fits into your morning routine. If you’re hosting a brunch or want to save time in the morning, here’s how to prepare it ahead:

1. Assemble the casserole as directed but don’t bake it.

2. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

3. Refrigerate overnight (up to 12 hours).

4. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.

5. Bake as usual, adding about 5–10 extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s still cold in the center.

This make-ahead method allows the cinnamon roll pieces to soak up all the custard, giving the casserole a rich, custardy texture and deeper flavor.

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Expert Tips for Success

• Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can make the casserole dry. Remove it from the oven once the center is just set.

• Balance the Sweetness: Serve with plain Greek yogurt or a side of fruit to balance the rich, sweet flavors.

• Layer Wisely: For more even flavor, pour the custard slowly and press down lightly so every piece soaks up the mixture.

• Use Quality Cinnamon Rolls: The flavor of the rolls sets the tone for the entire dish, so pick a brand with strong cinnamon and vanilla notes.

• Add a Little Crunch: Sprinkle granola or streusel topping before baking for a textural boost.

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Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot in Your Kitchen

There’s a reason this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole is beloved by families everywhere. It captures the soul of a bakery-fresh cinnamon roll and transforms it into a warm, custardy casserole that’s as easy to make as it is to love. Each bite delivers the perfect mix of soft, fluffy bread, creamy vanilla custard, and sweet glaze — a harmony of flavors that feels both nostalgic and indulgent.

Whether you’re celebrating a special morning or just want to treat yourself, this recipe brings people together around the table. It’s comforting, simple, and endlessly customizable — a true breakfast masterpiece. Once you make it, it’s bound to become your new go-to for weekends, holidays, and every cozy morning in between.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls will make this casserole even more special. Simply bake your rolls partially (until just golden), let them cool, then cut them into pieces and follow the same directions.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes. Substitute almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for the dairy, and use plant-based butter or margarine. Skip the heavy cream or use a dairy-free creamer for richness.

Do I have to use the icing that comes with the cinnamon rolls?

Not necessarily. You can make your own glaze using powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla, or even drizzle with cream cheese icing for a richer finish.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes. Reduce or omit the brown sugar and syrup in the custard mixture for a less sweet version — the cinnamon rolls themselves provide plenty of flavor.

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