If you’re craving a warm, gooey breakfast treat that feels like a hug on a plate, this Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine the soft, buttery swirls of cinnamon rolls transformed into a rich, custardy bake, crowned with a luscious drizzle of sweet icing. It’s the perfect recipe for busy mornings when you want that homemade touch without the fuss, or for a cozy weekend brunch that impresses without stress. Trust me, once you try this, cinnamon roll mornings will never be the same again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe calls for simple pantry staples and just a few fresh ingredients that work together to create an irresistible combination of flavors and textures. Each ingredient adds its magic, from the sweet and spicy cinnamon to the creamy custard that holds everything together.
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing: These provide the signature soft, sweet dough and that incredible cinnamon swirl that’s the star of the show.
- 4 large eggs: Essential for creating the rich custard that soaks into the cinnamon rolls, giving the casserole its tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds creaminess and helps to set the custard perfectly while baking.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Boosts the warm, spicy flavor that cinnamon roll lovers crave.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides aromatic depth and enhances the overall sweetness.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup: A natural sweetener that adds a cozy, slightly caramelized taste.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Contributes a hint of molasses richness and balances the flavors beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Brings a velvety richness and helps the top brown to a perfect golden hue.
- Icing from cinnamon roll packages: This is your final touch—drizzled over warm casserole for that irresistible sticky glaze.
How to Make Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This simple step ensures your casserole won’t stick, and a well-greased dish helps the edges brown nicely. A little patience here sets you up for baking success!
Step 2: Cut and Arrange Cinnamon Rolls
Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into quarters. This step guarantees every bite has a perfect balance of dough and cinnamon swirl. Spread the pieces evenly in your prepared baking dish so they bake uniformly and soak up all that luscious custard.
Step 3: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple syrup, brown sugar, and melted butter until smooth. This mixture is the heart of the casserole, infusing every bite with rich, indulgent flavor and keeping the casserole moist and tender.
Step 4: Pour and Soak
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces, making sure each piece is well coated. This soaking allows the flavors to meld beautifully and creates that comforting, custardy texture you’re aiming for.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place your casserole in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on the top’s color — if it starts browning too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil to prevent burning while ensuring the center cooks through. You’re looking for a golden brown top and a set center that’s still soft and inviting.
Step 6: Final Icing Touch
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool slightly to allow the custard to settle. Then drizzle the reserved icing from the cinnamon roll packages over the warm casserole for that signature sweet, sticky finish. This final step turns this dish from delicious to unforgettable.
How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For a stunning presentation, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top to add a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft casserole. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh berries can also brighten up the plate and add a hint of freshness to this rich, sweet dish.
Side Dishes
Pair your cinnamon roll casserole with fresh fruit salad or a tangy yogurt parfait to balance the sweetness and provide a refreshing counterpoint. Crispy bacon or savory breakfast sausages also make an amazing accompaniment and help round out your brunch table beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for personalized portions. Or create a brunch buffet where guests can drizzle their own maple syrup or add toppings like chopped nuts, cream cheese frosting, or even caramel sauce. It’s so versatile and fun!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap to maintain moisture and freshness. Reheat gently to preserve that tender, custardy texture.
Freezing
If you want to make it extra convenient, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly, and freeze before baking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge the day before you plan to bake, then add 5 to 10 extra minutes to the baking time for a perfect finish.
Reheating
Reheat slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or warm in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through. To keep the top from drying out, cover loosely with foil during warming. Warmed leftovers still taste divine, almost like freshly baked!
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of canned?
Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls work wonderfully in this casserole. Just make sure they’re prepped and cut in a similar size so they bake evenly. The homemade touch will add an extra layer of deliciousness.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a sturdy plant-based cream alternative and use dairy-free butter. The texture might be slightly different but still delightful and perfect for those avoiding dairy.
Can I add fruit to the casserole?
Yes! Adding fresh or frozen berries, chopped apples, or even pears can give the casserole a fruity twist. Just be mindful not to add too much liquid fruit, as it might affect the custard’s consistency.
How can I make the casserole less sweet?
To tone down the sweetness, reduce the brown sugar and maple syrup slightly or skip drizzling all the icing on top. You can always add more sweetness as you serve, adjusting to your taste.
Is this casserole suitable for kids?
Definitely! Kids love the familiar cinnamon roll flavor combined with the fun casserole form. Plus, it’s soft and easy to eat, making it a perfect family-friendly breakfast or brunch option.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe truly brings the best of cinnamon rolls to your breakfast table with minimal effort and maximum flavor. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from holiday mornings to casual weekends. Don’t wait to whip it up—your taste buds and loved ones will thank you for this sweet, cozy treat!
Print
Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a deliciously sweet and comforting baked dish perfect for breakfast or brunch. Made with refrigerated cinnamon rolls soaked in a rich mixture of eggs, heavy cream, cinnamon, and maple syrup, then baked until golden and topped with icing, it’s an effortless way to enjoy all the flavors of cinnamon rolls in a convenient casserole form.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Roll Base
- 2 cans (12.4 oz each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
Egg Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Topping
- Icing from the cinnamon roll packages
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cut and arrange cinnamon rolls: Open the cinnamon roll cans and cut each roll into quarters. Spread the pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish to create a base layer.
- Mix egg custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple syrup, brown sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour custard over rolls: Evenly pour the egg mixture over the cinnamon roll pieces, ensuring all pieces are coated and soaked for a cohesive casserole.
- Bake the casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown on top and the center is set. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil during the last 10 minutes to prevent burning.
- Add icing and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Drizzle the reserved icing from the cinnamon roll packages over the warm casserole before serving for added sweetness and flavor.
Notes
- You can prep the casserole the night before by assembling it and refrigerating; just add 5 to 10 minutes to the baking time when ready to bake.
- Serve warm with extra maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar for an indulgent brunch treat.
