If you’re craving a warm, sweet breakfast that feels like a cozy hug on a plate, the Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful dish takes the classic beloved cinnamon rolls and transforms them into a luscious, custardy bake that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or treating yourself any day of the week. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a fuss-free way to enjoy all the gooey cinnamon goodness with a tender, baked texture that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredients simple is the secret to this recipe’s charm. Each one plays a vital role, from the soft cinnamon rolls that bring the signature flavor to the creamy egg mixture that bakes into a rich and fluffy texture. These essentials come together beautifully without any complicated or hard-to-find items.
- Refrigerated cinnamon rolls (2 cans, 12.4 ounces each): These are the star of the dish, providing that iconic cinnamon swirl and sweetness.
- Large eggs (4): Eggs help bind the casserole and add creaminess for a custard-like consistency.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Adds richness and tenderness to every bite.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Enhances the cinnamon aroma already found in the rolls and adds extra spice.
- Maple syrup (1/4 cup): Infuses a gentle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon.
- Optional: Powdered sugar or extra syrup for serving: For an added touch of sweetness and presentation flair.
How to Make Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Rolls
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter—this ensures the casserole won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. Next, open your cinnamon roll cans, separate each roll, and cut them into quarters. Spread these pieces evenly in the prepared dish; this forms the deliciously browned, cinnamon-packed base of the casserole.
Step 2: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the eggs, heavy cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and maple syrup. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated. This custard will soak into the cinnamon roll pieces, turning them wonderfully soft and custardy as it bakes.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cut cinnamon roll pieces, making sure each piece gets a good coating. Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top turns a lovely golden brown and the center is set but still moist. This step turns the separate rolls into a scrumptious, cohesive casserole with an irresistible texture.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touch
As soon as the casserole comes out of the oven, drizzle the canned icing that came with the rolls generously over the top. The warmth of the casserole melts the icing just enough to add an extra glossy, sweet finish that makes every mouthful heavenly.
How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To make this dish feel special, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with extra maple syrup right before serving. These simple touches add sparkle and more layers of sweetness that elevate the casserole’s appearance and flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
This cinnamon roll casserole is naturally a star on its own, but pairing it with fresh fruit like berries or sliced oranges adds a bright, refreshing contrast. For a savory balance, crispy bacon or breakfast sausage rounds out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch gatherings, serve the casserole family-style right in the baking dish alongside bowls of additional toppings like chopped nuts, whipped cream, or cream cheese frosting. You can also cut it into squares and plate individually with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it sealed tightly to maintain moisture and prevent it from drying out, so it stays just as delightful when reheated.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover portions by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your casserole in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) until warmed through, about 10 to 15 minutes. Microwaving is quicker but can make it slightly gummy. Always add a drizzle of syrup or sprinkle of powdered sugar afterward to refresh that just-baked magic.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of canned?
Absolutely! Using homemade cinnamon rolls will add an extra personal touch, though the texture may vary slightly. Just make sure they are pre-made and slightly cooled before cutting and assembling for best results.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer, and choose a plant-based egg replacement. The texture may differ a bit, but the flavor will still be fantastic.
How do I make this recipe ahead of time for a crowd?
You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, bake it fresh in the oven for the full time. This makes hosting effortless and keeps the casserole tasting fresh and warm.
Can I add nuts or fruit to the casserole?
Definitely! Chopped pecans or walnuts add a wonderful crunch. Adding fruits like sliced apples or raisins gives additional texture and sweetness. Just sprinkle them on the cinnamon roll pieces before pouring the custard.
What can I use instead of maple syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup on hand, honey or agave nectar works well as substitutes. Each adds its own unique flavor twist while keeping the casserole sweet and moist.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is a magical way to transform a simple breakfast treat into a crowd-pleasing, cozy meal that’s loaded with warmth and sweetness. It’s effortless, comforting, and perfect for sharing with those you love. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and dive into a plate of pure cinnamon roll goodness baked to perfection!
Print
Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a delightful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, combining flaky cinnamon roll pieces soaked in a rich custard and baked to golden perfection. It’s a comforting breakfast or brunch dish that’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy mornings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Roll Base
- 2 cans (12.4 ounces each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing)
Custard Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
Optional Toppings
- Powdered sugar for serving
- Additional maple syrup for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Cinnamon Rolls: Open the canned cinnamon rolls and separate them. Cut each roll into quarters to create bite-sized pieces, then spread them evenly across the prepared baking dish.
- Make Custard Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and maple syrup until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Combine and Coat: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish, ensuring all pieces are well-coated by the liquid.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the center, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Add Icing: Remove the casserole from the oven and while it is still warm, drizzle the reserved icing from the cinnamon roll cans over the top to add sweetness and moisture.
- Serve: Serve the casserole warm, optionally dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with additional maple syrup to taste.
Notes
- For extra moistness, you can soak the cinnamon roll pieces in the custard mixture for 10-15 minutes before baking.
- Use fresh cinnamon rolls if desired, but adjust baking time accordingly as fresh rolls may take a bit longer.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and warmed up in the microwave or oven for a quick breakfast the next day.
- Make sure the casserole is set in the center before removing from the oven to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Optional toppings like fresh fruit or chopped nuts can add extra texture and flavor.
