Cinnamon Roll Breakfast Casserole

This cinnamon roll casserole is a go to when you want something easy but indulgent for a weekend brunch. The cinnamon rolls bake up soft and fluffy in a sweet custard and the warm icing drizzled on top just takes it over the top. I started serving this on Christmas mornings and now it is everyone’s most requested holiday breakfast.

My family always gathers around the kitchen as this bakes because the cinnamon smells fill the house. It is so easy that even my teenagers ask to help slice the rolls and pour the custard.

Ingredients

• Canned cinnamon rolls: This shortcut keeps things simple and guarantees gooey texture every time Look for ones with a good amount of cinnamon filling and save the included icing for the finishing touch
• Large eggs: They are essential for a creamy custard and help set everything so the casserole is sliceable Choose the freshest eggs for best texture
• Whole milk and heavy cream: These add extra richness and help soak the bread base Whole milk keeps things light but do not skip the splash of cream
• Granulated sugar: Gives the custard the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the cinnamon
• Pure vanilla extract: Adds warmth and aromatic flavor Always use real vanilla when possible
• Ground cinnamon: Deepens the spice and ties in the classic roll flavor Make sure your cinnamon is fresh for best taste
• Salt: Brings all the flavors into balance and keeps things from tasting overly sweet
• Unsalted butter: Adds a finishing richness on top
• Maple syrup: Sweetens the crust and gives a glossy bakery finish Use real pure maple syrup for the best result
• Reserved icing: The included icing puts this over the top with gooey sweetness Wait to drizzle until right before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Heat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit and butter a nine by thirteen inch baking dish or use a spritz of nonstick spray to make clean up easy

Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls:

Cut each cinnamon roll into four pieces Choose a sharp knife and wipe between cuts to keep the spirals neat Scatter the pieces evenly in the baking dish so you get lots of fluffy layers throughout

Make the Custard:

In a mixing bowl whisk together eggs whole milk heavy cream sugar vanilla extract cinnamon and salt Give it a solid whisk so there are no streaks This ensures the custard bakes up creamy and even

Assemble and Soak:

Pour the custard over the cinnamon rolls pushing gently with a spoon or spatula to make sure every piece gets coated This helps the rolls soak up all the flavor and keeps the bake moist

Add the Toppings:

Drizzle melted butter all across the top then slowly pour maple syrup letting it nestle into crevices The syrup and butter meld together for a caramelized sweet crust

Bake the Casserole:

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for thirty to thirty five minutes Until the top is golden and set but still a little soft in the center Insert a knife to check if it comes out mostly clean

Ice and Serve:

Let it cool for a few minutes This helps the icing melt nicely and not run off Drizzle the reserved icing in a zigzag or swirl as thick or thin as you like Cut into generous squares and serve warm

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Every time I bake this the vanilla and cinnamon fill the whole house and take me back to childhood weekends One of my favorite touches is real maple syrup because the flavor is so buttery and rich my little ones call it sticky magic

Storage Tips

Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to four days A quick zap in the microwave or a short warm up in a low oven brings back the soft pillowy texture

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap whole milk for two percent or even plant milk if you need to avoid dairy For a more homemade flavor try using your favorite dough or even day old brioche bread cut into cubes

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a bowl of fresh berries or fruit salad on the side This casserole also pairs really well with salty breakfast sausage or scrambled eggs for a bigger brunch spread

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Cultural Background

This sweet breakfast casserole is a popular American twist on traditional bread pudding and monkey bread The use of canned cinnamon rolls is a classic shortcut for busy holiday mornings

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare the casserole in advance?

Yes, assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake in the morning, adding 5–10 minutes to the baking time if cold.

→ Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls?

Absolutely! Prepare homemade dough and cut it into pieces for a richer flavor, adjusting baking time as needed.

→ How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is ready when it’s puffed and golden, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

→ What variations can I try with this dish?

Add nuts such as pecans or walnuts for extra crunch, sprinkle raisins before baking, or serve with fresh fruit.

→ Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

You can substitute with plant-based milk, non-dairy cream, and a dairy-free icing to accommodate dietary needs.